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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  Best Value Out There - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By jschaffer180 - January 31 - 10:00 am

  This car is nothing short of amazing. I began my search looking for cars costing $3000-$4000 more than the top of the line 3 Hatchback such as the Acura TSX, Honda Accord EX V6 Coupe, Subaru WRX and used Lexus IS 300s. This car blew me away. Ill admit it has less power than the rest by a decent margin, but somehow the fun to drive factor beats the rest by a longshot and it never feels short on power. I love driving this thing, and it also has more room then the rest of the cars as well. Anyone looking at any of these cars, take a look at the 3. I know it may not have the prestige, but I guarantee it will surprise you.

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  ma review - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Kimmerz - January 31 - 1:20 am

  I LOVE this car! You will surely enjoy this vehicle but there are some drawbacks; for one you cant really pack the trunk full of things because this car can bottom out but there might just be damage that the dealership cant see that it underneath the chassis. But overall a good car.

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  Perfect City Car - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jamie - January 30 - 11:36 pm

  The Mazda 3 goes to show that sleek styling, sharp handling, & a powerful engine doesnt cost a fortune. The interior is well appointed and instrument panel is conveniently layout out. It has rigid steering and I feel in control of the car at all times. The Mazda 3 is perfect for the city, its not to big and not to small but just right.

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  MAZDA 3-2006 TOURING 4DR SEDAN - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Arnold McLemore - January 29 - 11:06 am

  I am very pleased that I purchased the Mazda-3. I must say the styling of this vehicle is sporty and not cheap looking for a economy car. Im very impressed with the performance of this vehicle. My main reason for a economy car was for gas mileage. If youre looking for a reasonable car w/style and performance I definitely recommend this car. Ive looked at Toyota Corolla and Toyota Matrix which are very nice cars, but the Mazda-3 beats them all to me.

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  Now I know why they say "Zoom Zoom" - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Amy - January 26 - 9:06 pm

  I LOVE my car!! This is my first Mazda! I had traded in a Chevy Cavalier which I had really enjoyed - until I test drove this car! I have the Grand Touring Hatchback. The moonroof is nice and I love the Bose speakers (the sound quality is excellent) and the leather interior is very comfortable! I drive a lot of city miles and average about 22.5 mpg. When I go on trips though and am on the highway I am getting more like 30 mpg! I am very happy with my purchase!

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  Great fun car for the money - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By CK - January 25 - 6:40 am

  Bam! Mazda has kicked it up a few notches in the compact car segment. The car is everything I expected and more. After taking it for a test drive, I knew I had made a right choice in purchasing the 3. The list of features in the fully loaded GT is something you would normally find in cars retailing for more than $30K. I got mine in true red and it looks great. The engine is quick for a car in this class. Not the old 4 bangers of the past. Overall just a fun car to drive.

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  i love it! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Rachel4 - January 20 - 10:00 am

  i love my car, i am so happy with my pruchase i couldnt have done better.its awsome, i love it!!!!

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  Dont buy it! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By dudesk - January 20 - 10:00 am

  Ive had to the car into the dealership once a month since I purchased for various problems with the brakes and the check the engine light.

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  Overall happiness - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By thark57 - January 20 - 3:33 am

  I have 2000 mi. so far. All city miles so far. Mileage has steadily climbed starting at 28.5 to 31 mpg. There seems to be a gearing gap from 1st to 2nd gear. Trunk is roomy and back seats work great for my 7 and 11 yr olds. I think there should be more interior colors available. I wish there was a 6th gear for the highway. Not sure why the a/c turns on when you turn the temperature control know back all the way to cool.

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  You Cant Go Wrong - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Very Good Purchase - January 19 - 5:53 am

  I am the type of guy who really does my homework before purchasing a car. I read many of the reviews on here, and on Yahoo. I visited 4 dealerships, and test drove the car at each of them. When I decided to purchase the car I did it online through Edmunds. Be careful, cause many of the dealerships will say a low price, but when you arrive it jumped up $2-3k, cause of options. I love the car. Handles great, got 30mpg on my first tank of gas, plenty of room, very quite, and easy to drive. Great Buy!