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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  Absolute best car for the money - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By dave - December 17 - 7:13 am

  I just purchased a 2010 Mazda3 using the CARS program. After a lot of searching for a vehicle, and test driving my fair share, I was turned onto the mazda3 and never looked back. The biggest complaint that most people seem to have is the room, but I tend to disagree. I am 65" and I fit in this vehicle better than the many SUV and larger looking vehicles. I will admit that my roominess may be at the expense of my the backseat passengers, but thats just a perk of being the driver! The handling is unreal, and the bluetooth feature autosynchs with my phone the second I start my car. This is the best car I have ever driven.

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  Best car Ive owned yet - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By koopzilla - December 13 - 1:40 pm

  I love my Mazda3 Hatchback, Great gas mileage fun to drive no complaints at all if havent driven one do so and if your serious about buying new car give it a chance they really give you a lot of car for your dollar

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  Great Little Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By kdibello - December 7 - 2:00 am

  This car smokes the competition (Corolla, Civic). Its tight as a drum and performs very well by any standard especially for an econobox. It is built to a standard you typically find in more expensive cars.

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  Not as good as toyota - 2012 Mazda Mazda3
  By alex_z - December 2 - 3:35 pm

  Have 5000 miles on it. I like interior, Bluetooth, steering, seats. Now about bad things: suspension sucks. Its o.k. for commuting and thats it. Took it for a long trip once and hate it now. It drives o.k. on a smooth road but once you go on a crappy one, your butt will feel every bump. Another bad thing about this car- its too low. I already hit the bottom a couple of times and now Im very careful. Visibility is o.k. but not as good as Corolla. I took my wifes old corolla for a 2000 miles trip last week, and its day and night in comparison of driving. Yes, Toyota sucks in interior and has only 4 speed auto, but much better in comfort. Take it on a crappy road before you buy it.

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  My Mazda 3 - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By JamieBier - December 2 - 10:00 am

  Of all the cars I test drove this was by far the best. It handled better than the Civic, Corolla, and the Altima. The car just gets more fun each time I get in it!

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  My Mazda 3 - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By rkctexas - December 2 - 10:00 am

  This car has the best reliability of any car I have ever seen or heard of. It is fantastic, and practically repairs itself. No problems. I sometimes drive it too hard, but it takes it amazingly well. My wife and I love this car and consider it a member of our family. Lief Johnson has always been an exceptional dealer for me, always going above and beyond. For me to say that is something, because I have walked out of several places, determined never to do business with them again.

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  Happy - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By MOSEMAN - December 1 - 2:00 am

  Im so happy with my purchase. I wouldnt trade for anything.

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  Great Car - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By gburns - November 27 - 7:03 pm

  I bought this car after comparing it to multiple other cars, and I could not be happier that I went with the Mazda3.

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  I love the 09 i touring value!! - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
  By Sonny - November 27 - 10:30 am

  There is no better looking car in this class, or more fun. The engine, even at 2.0, is peppy, fast and ready to go. I love how sporty it is, both outside and inside. Lots of headroom for a car this size. Feels and handles like a BMW 3 series, but you are paying $10-$15K cheaper! Its sporty and fast enough and yet, it still gets good gas mileage. Between city and highway, I averaged 29- 31/gal. and the stereo which comes with the i touring sounds really good, nice acoustic and full bass. I am 61 and I bump my head when getting into a BMW 3 series, but no problem at all with the Mazda 3. Its tight, its firm, and feel you are in control all the time. Its just an awesome car all around!

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  No more Hondas after driving this car - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By jake - November 23 - 4:26 am

  This car is great. Smooth ride for a smaller car, nice and zippy. Getting 27mph combined and hopefully better after a few thousand break-in miles.I have been a Honda guy forever, but this car beats any Honda I have driven. Good choice if you like a quick car that has some cargo space and better than average gas mileage.I was impressed with the suspension, soft for a smaller car, with a Honda you feel every little crack on the road.Love it!