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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  Mazda3 2.0L Auto - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Kennedy - August 9 - 5:53 am

  I bought this Mazda3 based mainly on previous professional reviews for its reliability, agility and fuel mileage. Plus, I really liked the exterior styling. After driving some 6000 miles Ive found that the ride is jittery, choppy and generally unrefined. It always feel like there is a wheel out of balance or tire out of round. Both motor mounts where replaced and a 4 wheel road force balance but there is still a lot of engine shake felt through the steering wheel and chassis. I wouldnt buy again.

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  I LOVE this car - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By cyn - August 9 - 2:30 am

  I bought this car in college over 5 years ago and put 85,000 miles on it - no mechanical problems whatsoever. Its extremely reliable, inexpensive to maintain, handles well, plenty of storage area, and has good gas mileage.

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  Nice Car for the money - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By phild - August 5 - 10:00 am

  My last 4 cars were BMWs. When I purchased the Mazda 3 I expected a great letdown, but boy I am surprised! This car is a joy to drive. Very comfortable and surefooted, goes exactly where you point it. It has many features found on cars costing thousands more. Feels very solid on the road. On my 2nd tank of gas averaging 25mpg. The hatchback carries lots of stuff, just a joy to get behind the wheel.

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  The road car - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By willie robinson - August 3 - 6:10 am

  After test driving Honda,Toyota. Nissan, BMW, Volvo, Mitsu, the Mazda 3 came out on top for me to replace my wifes G35 and we were not disappointed. Put about 400 miles in three days and what a road car we got - every thing in it but the nav. My wife said its quick and fast, love the car, do your research and test drive all the rest, but you will love the 3 trust me.

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  Blurry Window - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Theresa - August 2 - 1:10 pm

  My rear window is blurry as if there were plastic across it, and really can be noticed with ultra violet rays. My dealer agreed with me and checked on another vehicle and verified that was the same way. It is very annoying especially in heavy traffic when you constantly need to check through your rear view mirror. God bless you if you get migraines, it is actually painful. What about the safety factor, it is not a clear window. Where do I go from here, let me know your thoughts.

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  Great Ride - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Wayne - August 1 - 10:33 am

  A very fun car to drive. Great handling and one of the peppiest in its class. My only inconvenience with this model is that the headrests block the rear view mirrors view and the side window design makes it challenging to see cars in either lane when changing lanes. Took a little bit of adjustment to turn my head more to the sides before changing lanes to catch the blind spot. Cant say enough good about his car. Ive had Honda Civics and Toyota Corollas and the Protege before, and this car is by far the best for handing, acceleration, and just pure fun. The other did however have better fuel economy.

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  FUN FUN FUN - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By BF - August 1 - 12:06 am

  This car had everything and more. I traded my BMW for this Mazda 3 mainly based on looks and improved fuel economy. This car fully loaded (more so than my BMW) cost me about 15000 LESS than my BMW. I absolutely love it! Super fun to drive and very reliable. I find myself looking forward to driving to and from work. Great car especially for the money.

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  A Pleasant Surprise - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Riffy - July 31 - 4:20 pm

  After being disappointed by the arrival of a few new "super cars", my wife steered me toward Mazda. Not since I drove my first sports car at 18 - a long time ago - have I taken so much to a car. The drive position, steering feel, throttle/steering coordination and world class brakes were all something from the "Sorcerors Apprentice". And the glove box is more the size of a small suitcase; you can actually store stuff. In short, although I was considering Japanese and German sports sedans at almost twice the price, this car put an end to that insanity. Why not spend half the money for same dose of fun - plus the bonus of made in Japan build quality. I did - not so stupid after all.

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  GREAT CAR! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By JIFFY - July 31 - 2:00 am

  This car has it all. Its not expensive at all and has all the best features. The interior is absolutely beautiful. The exterior is flawless and sporty looking and performance is all I ask for. I got the automatic but the dealership didnt have manual yet. GO GET ONE!

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  Mazdas Slot Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By JR54321 - July 26 - 2:00 am

  I traded in a Dakota 4X4 with a V8 to save on gas. Thought I would just get a bland econo box to drive back and forth to work. The Mazda 3 is a blast to drive. Its a little slot car. Reminds me of the Omni GLH I had in the 80s, just a little more refined.