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:

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  The Ultimate Commuter - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By psiegler - July 20 - 10:13 pm

  I commute daily 75 miles, one way, from Phoenix, up a wonderful, winding highway where the speed limit is generally governed only by ones own prudence. The recent purchase of my 2010 3 Hatchback has made me a Mazda believer. Plenty of power, plenty of comfort, great interior design and ergonomics, and it corners as if on velcro. The shifter feels stiff, and MPG avg. is only 28 or 29, but zoom on. Love it.

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  Such a great choice - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By micfar - July 18 - 2:53 am

  I bought my Mazda 3 S Touring about 6 months ago and have the best driving experience since. By far the best looking interior of any car I looked at (including the Honda Civic and the Dodge Caliber). The 5 speed manual is very smooth. I dont think I have touched the radio once thanks to the steering wheel mounted radio buttons. If you are thinking about this car, just take it for a test drive and all questions will be answered. Zoom Zoom!

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  Teething problems ? - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Alan - July 17 - 2:03 pm

  Sport badge should be dropped as handling is rather poor. Believe it can be attributed to the electro hydraulic power assisted steering. Just doesnt suit my driving style, really disappointed !(have now covered 14000 miles) Steering creeking and growning for second time despite mod. Road noise excessive and distracting. Wheels tend to track the slightest rutts in the road surface. Air con lacking. Radio reception poor. Accessories extortionately priced. Drivers seat beginning to lose support and fabric baggy dispite me only being of average weight.

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  At this price point, the choice is clear - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By gsr - July 16 - 8:20 pm

  I love my Mazda3 hatchback. It looks good both inside and out. It scoots around well enough and shines on the twisties. A lot of car for the money. I paid $17k with a year-end $2000 rebate for the S model with an automatic. I would have preferred a stick but had to compromise with the Mrs and opt for the auto - Ive been very pleased with it though and have zero regrets with this choice of transmission. The best word to described this car is "zippy". I always look forward to getting behind the wheel. My anyone would rather buy any other car in the same price range is beyond me - but Im glad they do because 3s arent as ubiquitous as they should be.

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  Take a second look. - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Keith - July 14 - 11:53 pm

  I was so used to seeing the older 3 models when I had the chance to see the 2010 it took me a minute to warm up to the new front grill. The rest of the car styling is amazing! The driver cabin looks really cool and the components are high quality. I dont really care for the stereo layout but I only use the AUX in for my iPod so its not too much of a bother. At times the i sport hesitates during acceleration but for the most part it is very responsive to the throttle, has very little body roll and is a blast to drive. It always puts a smile on my face when I get into the drivers seat. Road noise is almost non existent.

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  Euro build style.. without the price tag - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By badM3 - July 14 - 2:00 am

  I used to own a VW Jetta VR6, and find a lot of similarities between the Jetta and the Mazda3. I was impressed on the first drive the pickup the 2.3l had. Its been awhile since I owned a 4cyl. Overall, the last 199 miles have been a pleasure. Its comfortable, sharp and nibble handling make quite a package. Driving is believing.

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  Fantastic vehicle - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Johnboy - July 13 - 5:53 pm

  I found my 2004 Yellow Mazda3 Hatch at the dealership just calling out my name. The previous owner apparently wanted a MazdaSpeed3 and this was what they traded in. Mine is a 5-speed manual and extremely fun to drive and tour with. Great gas mileage helps me save on my commute to work, and to say that my car turns heads would be an understatement. The ONLY complaint I have on this vehicle is that the stock tires that come with it are HORRIBLE in adverse weather (snow and/or rain). Got 4 new tires and the difference is amazing. Only one issue in 2 years (seat belt sensor) was fixed immediately and has not reappeared.

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  OK car - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By tom - July 9 - 11:26 pm

  Have had the car almost a year and have enjoyed the handling. The very first thing is the fuel mileage is very poor. In town is 20.7 and interstate is 25, not at all what I expected from a 2.0 engine. Took a trip to AZ and was surprised at handling in traffic, and it felt roomy. I found nothing extra in the mountains as far as power. I guess the engine is a little small, which brings me back to poor mileage. I love the dash at night, doesnt blind me when driving.

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  Good Value - All Around Car - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By davidej123 - July 9 - 11:15 am

  I recently picked up a 2005 Mazda 3s, with the 5spd, as a grocery-getter / everyday workhorse. I wanted something versatile, reliable, and cheap to maintain, with above average city mpg. However, I also love driving, so I wanted to make sure it was still fun and very much a "drivers car". The 3s has been good-to-excellent on all counts. The shifter is superb. Somedays, I actually like it better than the shifter on my M5. The handling is precise, like a go-cart. The brakes are good. In combined driving, I average about 28-30mpg without fail. Typical trip to the pump is 11gals for 330mi. Decent - but if fuel economy is your absolute top priority, buy a Prius because it will crush this.

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  catastrophic clutch failure at 14k miles - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By natdallas - July 9 - 2:43 am

  Ive really enjoyed driving this car. Ive driven two manual hondas, one subaru and an old datsun. Never any clutch problems. My 2010 Mazda 3 had a tight clutch one day, and then in the course of a day and a half, the clutch engaged the gear only partially--losing power--and finally, with a snapping sound, no power at all. Miriam Stevens (at Mazda North America Customer Care) gave the impression that Mazda does not care about premature clutch failures on this car. I mentioned the many web-postings about customers with similar clutch failures that appear out of nowhere, ending in sudden failure. This issue is not the result of wear and tear. Want to call lawyer.