Mazda Mazda3 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.68/5 Average
2,343 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

Mazda has a tradition of building entertaining small cars, and the Mazda 3 fits right in with its sharp handling and engaging nature. But it's also a practical, affordable runabout that's available as either a sedan or a handy four-door hatchback. A Mazda 3 of any vintage is worth consideration, but the 3's interior quality has improved dramatically over time. Likewise, fuel economy has emerged as a real strength in recent years.

Introduced in 2004, the Mazda 3 has always been one of those cars that feels a little bit special when you get behind the wheel. Some shoppers might find the ride too firm, but if you like to drive, you'll probably take a shine to this compact Mazda. Passenger room is the same in the sedan and hatchback, but the latter offers more cargo room. If fuel economy is a priority, note that 2012 and later models benefit from updated engine technology that helps the car return significantly better mileage.

User Reviews:

Showing 1211 through 1220 of 2,343.00
  • Not your fathers dull ride - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    If you think Corolla, Civic, Focus, or Sentra are your idea of good small cars than The Mazda 3s is probably too radical for you. Its sad that so many people do not consider Mazda3 when thinking of buying a small car. Style, handling, braking, fun factors are totally beyond what the other car makers have to offer. Yes, others may be more reliable and reassuring in that sense but its a dull, practicle, for the masses products. Do yourself a favor, test drive a 3s and compare it with any other comparable makes. Its a little rough but that part of the allure and enticement.

  • Shopped for a New 10, Bought an 08 - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    I got interested in the new 2010 Mazda 3, but test-drove the car and didnt like the interior or rear-quarter blind spots at all. Got interested in the old-generation ("leftover") 08 and 09 Mazda 3s still on the lot, drove one, and liked it much better -- especially on the inside. Made a great deal on a loaded 08. I think this is the class of the small-Asian-sedan segment -- more distinctive than the Corolla or Civic and streets ahead of the Sentra in terms of comfort, performance and amenities. Its roomy up front (not so much in back), quick off the line, great in the corners, and styled like a bargain-basement BMW. Worthy competitor to Jetta at less cost, better build quality.

  • Best Economy Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    The 04 Mazda 3s is by far the best economy car around. I recently purchases an 04 Neon SXT and an 03 Civic LX and the Mazda 3s out-does them easily. I just got this car for my 17 yr old and he loves it. The car has the great engine with 160hp. It has superb handling, smooth ride, quiet cabin, outstanding interior and exterior styling, high quality interior. The 1 flaw in this car is that the trunk is small. I got an auto Mazda 3s with navigation and leather for only 17,650. This car is like a mini Altima or Accord.

  • Just a test drive...... - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    The test drive was very nice. The dealer was a little pushy. I have just begun to search for a new car and this one might be it. The Mazda Symbol on the front and rear of the car is absolutly huge, tone it down Mazda. Radio was kind of weak, the shift were not as crisp as in the 6 but the clutchs pick up position was better. The handling was sweet tight but not quite as good as the out going protege. It better than the protege in someways, more of the same in others.

  • Very Nice - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    Moving from the world of RWD V8s, I decided I wanted something smaller, better handling for my daily driver. The 3 wagon is a dream, as in its much better than I ever expected. The stick is one of the smoothest Ive ever used. The handling is a blast (get rid of the stock Goodyears immediately, they are garbage) and it can haul all the stuff I need for a cross country trip. The build is up there also, I hit a pothole so hard in this thing that I thought the A arm was coming through the front fender, but it didnt. And gas mileage, I routinely get 26 with all city driving (a lot of it heavy footed) and with less than 1000 miles on the odo, I got 37+. EXCELLENT CAR

  • Enjoy the drive - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    5 door hatchback-slick 5 speed, nice interior design-firm but comfortable seats, very enjoyable to drive-handles well on the highway, great on winding roads-good acceleration 160 hp perfect for a car this size. Its just fun to drive. Looked at the Vibe and Subaru Forester. The Vibe was a close runner- up because it is more versatile. The 3 is better contstructed with better handling and driving features.

  • I love it - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    The car drives amazing, is very comfortable, is extremely stylish for its class and price, and provides an experience that I have yet to feel in a car less than $30,000. Mazda love is hard to comprehend until you own one and realize the value you get, and the experience you get is unmatched. I bought it for the looks, fell in love with the drive, and have absolutely no issues with reliability. Ive owned it a year and have already put well over 20,000 miles on it and it has had no servicing needed besides basic oil changes, ect.

  • I love it! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    I love my Mazda 3!! Its incredibly fun to drive, but yet quite roomy. I just bought it this week, and I continue to look forward to each drive!

  • Mazda3isgood - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    This car floored me when I first learned about it at the dealership. I was actually looking at the RX8, but at 62", was too tall for the RX8. The 6 is nice, but this car is more nimble, fun to drive, and allows you to spend your extra money saved elsewhere!

  • Simply The Best - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    I cannot stop smiling. I drive from Lake Arrowhead down the hill 5 days a week and have never had so much fun doing so. Like many of my neighbors I bought a Subaru WRX (fast & good in the snow, but mediocre handling.) Test driving the Mazda3 pretty much sold me. My salesman took me on a 12 mile back road course with tons of turns to demo the cars ability and even left the A/C on so I could see how well it could take a hill. All in all I am highly impressed. I drove the Civic, GTI, RSX & TSX, TC, G6, Ion and none even came close to this thing. Im hooked.

Mazda Mazda3 Reviews By Year:
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