Overview & Reviews

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:

• 

  Outstanding - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Richranger - October 31 - 7:56 am

  I traded in my 2000 Ford Ranger using the cash for clunkers program. AKA car rebate allowance. Just incredible. I researched new vehicles for a few months and found the winner. I dont miss my truck one bit. I have a few more miles to go, but am very impressed so far. The xenon headlamps, moonroof, bose system, adaptive headlamps, too many features to list. You get your $ worth and then some. Other vehicles with all the things I have on this would cost me thousands more. 1st time Mazda buyer. THANK YOU MAZDA! ZOOM ZOOM ZOOM! Really!

• 

  Take It From Me - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By TRO - October 27 - 11:13 am

  I have been an auto detailer for years, and just started college in Oregon. I needed a reliable car with good gas mileage to drive from Washington. This car is everything and more. I have the 2.3 Mazda 3 Hatch S. On average, now this is average about 28 miles per gallon. On highway only I have averaged about 36. I know its insane. Driving on the highway the noise is actually very quiet. This car has tons of room and very spacious. The manual transmission is very smooth along with the steering. Easy to use controls on the steering wheel. I would recommend this car to ANYONE. I have driven hundreds of other cars through my auto detailing, and nothing compares to a Mazda. Nothing.

• 

  Not compact on performance - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By radarryder - October 22 - 8:43 am

  This car is far surpasses anything in its class by leaps and bounds...and I test drove them all. The fit and finish, performance and driveability remind me of a sports car...with 4 doors. Plenty of room for a compact, and lots of "bang for the buck" goodies made this car very attractive vs. its competition. Smooth ride, ergonomic controls, superior build quality, and lots of safety features from Mazda all add up to a car you will love to drive, be proud to own...and the 35 mpg from a 150 hp VVT 4 cylinder engine isnt too bad either. Mazda coined the phrase "Zoom Zoom" because they said that in all of their cars was the soul of a sports car. They were right on with the 3.

• 

  Must See, Must Buy - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By IntgrGsr5 - October 21 - 3:03 pm

  The Mazda3 is an awesome car. They look very aggresive and even have a little growl from the factory. I rate the safety very well since I wrecked mine doing rolls at 75+mph. My friend and I were okay and walked about 5 miles to my friends house for the night. I had a sore shoulder for about 2 months after but by judging by the car its a miracle we made it out alive. Its a clean, and stylish car with good performance and mileage all in one. I wouls recommend this to tuners, youngerr crowd, and parents with no more than 2 kids. The trunk is BIG so I cant figure why the back seat is small.

• 

  Fun and practical - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Sam - October 21 - 9:06 am

  I switched over from a Mercedes 350-E which was plagued with problems and poor quality not to mention expensive maintenance costs. I chose a Mazda 3 2.5 litre GTE model and am extremely satisfied with the car. Have traveled across the country this summer and never even had a minor problem. The gas mileage is good but city consumption is slightly heavy in traffic. The car has enough power for highways and passing. It has many features of a much more expensive German luxury model but far cheaper to run and maintain. It also runs fine on regular gas and has a smaller environmental impact compared to German imports . The GPS display screen in the dash is a bit small and hard to read.

• 

  Simply the best - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By drobinson - October 17 - 10:03 am

  Hands down best car I have every purchased. Ive owned 3 Hondas; 90 LX, 96EX and 99 SI Civics also an 02 Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V (piece of junk). This car gets out handles and preforms all these cars and also get better gas mileage. MAZDA is the car of choice in this segment. Sorry Honda lovers but its true. Buy a Mazda and youll see.

• 

  First new used car, and I love it! - 2011 Mazda Mazda3
  By jugar123 - October 17 - 2:59 am

  Ive bought this car about a month ago and put about 2,000 miles, and let me say, its amazing to drive. It handles the taconic curves like nobodies business. I love the bucket seats, makes the car feel like a sports car. I do have to admit, the back seat is a little tight for tall passengers, but its not a big deal at all. Its a perfect commuter car in my opinion. I average out 28-30, while doing 75-80 with the AC which is amazing. A full tank gets me about 450-500 miles thats mostly highway mileage . Great car.

• 

  56K and still going - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By js1 - October 12 - 10:43 pm

  It will be two years in March 09 and this car is tough. 56k and still drives like the day I drove it off the dealership lot, save for new tires at 40k and rotors that are worn, but I do push this car to the limit. I think if you are looking for a dependable used car that gets 35mpg and is fun to drive this is for you. Previously drove 97 honda civic and 93 honda civic and like the car better than previous two, much more reliable.

• 

  Bummed out - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Brian - October 11 - 11:03 am

  I was really excited to get this car except that its been in the shop 3 times in its first year. All with oxygen sensor problems which the service manager told me doesnt happen often. Well its happened 3 times with me and it sucks. Worried about how reliable this car will be down the road. I had planned on keeping this car for a long time now Im already looking for a replacement.

• 

  Mazda3 S Sport - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By bighaeb - October 11 - 10:00 am

  Two words: Simply amazing! You arent going to find anything out there that compares in performance, fun, and quality for the price. Take my word for it. Ive spent a LOT of time driving everything possible within a 16000-21000 range. Get to your nearest dealer and drive one. You will love it!