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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  Had a Mazda 3 sedan 2008 for 9 months in Upstate NY - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By regraphic - April 29 - 6:59 pm

  It was a great car at first and its lasted throughout all of this crazy weather weve been having in the northeast with the hurricane and rain. I purchased the car used at 36,000 miles or so and now has about 44,000. On one occasion I left for a trip over a weekend and the car seemed to be hesitant to start. Again, this past weekend I left it over the weekend, which wasnt especially a record cold temp. weekend and came back to a non-starting vehicle. It sounds like it might be the battery, but I left the car a night and if the lights had been on this annoying buzzer goes on in my car before I remove the keys. Im not sure what it is that is wrong, but I will be bringing it in to find out.

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  Mazda 3 - 2011 Mazda Mazda3
  By gatski - April 27 - 11:17 am

  Great car!!! Lots of fun to drive

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  Better than expected - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By camp1955 - April 27 - 10:00 am

  This car is fun to drive, steering is respponsive. The 2.3 engine has all the power you need for those on ramp merging. Good feel of control at higher speeds. Havent made it to 115mph reported cutout yet.

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  Formula 1 Economy Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By The Box - April 27 - 10:00 am

  The Mazda 3 is a high priced european car in disguise. The Suspension feels like a Formula 1 car. The car is definently class king.

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  Worthy of the All the Praise - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jerry - April 25 - 3:40 am

  Our Mazda3 (S model, nearly all options) has lived up to the hype so far (3,000 miles). This is my (soon-to- be) wifes daily driver and she is constantly speaking of how much fun it is to drive and how many positive remarks she gets from others. The handling is crisp and responsive; the acceleration is better than adequate (some torque-steer present and can bog down at low RPMs). The seating position is a bit higher than Im used to, but you feel well confined. The A-pillar (along windshield) can obstruct views. The trunk is large (and so is the trunk lid). Our car has the 17" wheels and rides on the rough side. In all, an much more rewarding alternative to the typical commuter sedan.

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  Great Car - 2014 Mazda Mazda3
  By mikejohn - April 24 - 12:44 pm

  Replaced my 2010!GTI and I love everything about this car especially Interior, Features, Performance. Awesome to have Sport Mode in this car as well as paddle shifters. Love the Almond Interior.

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  Awesome Ride!! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Myran22 - April 21 - 4:23 pm

  I LOVE this car!! I have not had any problems with it! I bought it used in 2008 I own the 2005 Mazda3 S. I have had it for a little over a year its almost at 49,000 miles. I have a friend who owns an older Mazda626 which has been an awesome car for them which was one of the reasons I actually considered buying it. I had originally wanted to buy a honda accord but I have actually been happier with my Mazda than I think I would have been with the Honda. It was cheaper but I definitely dont believe its cheap quality. Ford makes Mazda and Fords are usually pretty dependable however this car is like no Ford that Ive ever driven.

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  BMW-like car for Chevy-like price - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Stephen H - April 20 - 10:00 am

  For what you get, this car is a steal. For $19k MSRP my car has leather, side/curtain airbags, 17" alloys, CD, air, power everything, a very slick manual. I got about $1k off MSRP (about $700 over invoice) after bargaining HARD with 5 dealers in LA area (the manuals are very hard to get...dont believe forum postings, you wont get close to $300 over invoice on the 5M hatch). After a week, the car has not disappointed. It is simply outstanding. The handling and performance is suprising--very BMW like in its agility and fun factor. The utility is great (I already have done a Home Depot run with the seats folded), and the interior has high style.

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  Everything I asked for - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Kevin - April 18 - 9:43 am

  I leased this car and it did everything I needed it to do. It is a great commuter but it is not a long distance car. I needed to stuff things like jeans and pillows behind my back and next to the driver door to lean on for 5 - 6 hour trips. The style is great and I totally enjoyed cleaning and polishing the exterior. I have the rally white. The inside is less quality especially compared to my wifes Corolla. It is noisy at higher speeds especially as the oem tires wear. Good car to lease but I wont buy it. Gets 31/35 mph, same as the Corolla we check.

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  Great Car, Great Price - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Kyle - April 18 - 9:13 am

  Overall, you cant find a better car for the price, period. The combination of performance, interior design, and aesthetics makes this car extremely desirable. I rigorously examined the Corolla, Civic, and other midsize sedans, and this Mazda tops them all.