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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  1 year of ownership - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By TimL - January 17 - 3:40 am

  At the car lot I jumped in the vehicle to take it for a drive. It seems very very sluggish and was not at all impressed. Then I noticed the brake light was on!!!!!! Well, after taking the E-brake off I realized this car had some serious zip. It handled better than any of my two other previously owned vehicles. I was sold. Last summer I took the vehicle from Oregon to Yellowstone in Montana. When I hit the Rockys I noticed my car did not climb very well. Other vehicles on the road seemed to be responding about the same. I decided to experiment and flipped the stick to Manual and dropped it into third gear. I was easily able to drive uphill at 90mph and still had power left over.

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  Expectations Met - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Pasha - January 16 - 9:20 pm

  Before purchasing MAZDA3 i, I owned "Toyota Corolla S" for 2 years. I was very unhappy with it, because it was a simple basic car with very low power, and was expensive. MAZDA3 i met all my expectations. At this price range, I would definitely recommend this vehicle. It has a quiet and smooth ride, and great corner handling. Compared to others at this price range, Mazda3 has much more power and still very fuel efficient. Unbelievable. In real-world driving, with 12 gallons of gas, I went 430 miles. I loved the exterior design. I really enjoy driving this vehicle. If you are looking for a car for $16,500, I would recommend MAZDA3 i. For this price, this is the total package today.

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  In love from the first moment! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Chris - January 16 - 8:03 pm

  I replaced my 2003 Ford Ranger Edge with the Mazda3 and couldnt be happier. The Mazda3 is by far the most sport tuned compact in its class. No car can compare. I continue to be shocked by the performance from such an inexpensive compact car. The seats are firm but comfortable. The ride sound is a little louder than most but I was willing to compromise for the 17 inch wheels and sport suspension. My $19,000 car has more options, bigger wheels, better acceleration, better handling and the same reliability as my mothers $28,000 Honda Accord. You cant go wrong with the Mazda3.

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  Love my Mazda - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
  By buckeye 4ever - January 16 - 5:50 am

  Decided to buy my first Mazda after studying Consumer Reports - so far not disappointed. Like others, the road noise is very noticeable but the car is alot of fun to drive. Only have had 2 issues with car so far (very minor). Was told that the brakes accumulate rust every morning with the humidity but after applying the brakes a few times, is gone (was told this was normal with Mazdas)and also thought had problem with braking system (icon was lite) but turned out to be low tire pressure. Icons almost identical (not good) and was told at dealership they get someone everyday with the same issue. Otherwise, this will be a great car for my daughter when she starts driving. (ugh the thought)

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  Fun car to drive - 2013 Mazda Mazda3
  By vwgolf_1999 - January 13 - 6:20 am

  Bought a 2013 Mazda 3 iTouring Hatchback after the 2014s were released, so got a good deal on the car. I really like the way this car drives - it handles so nicely. The iTouring (which is the base hatchback model) has good features - automatic dual-zone climate control and advanced keyless entry (which Ive gotten to really like). Road noise is higher than Id ideally like, but similar to other cars in the class. Gas mileage (after ~600 miles, so still running in) has averaged ~32mpg (mostly city and hilly driving). Overall - Im very happy with this car.

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  Wow! - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Scott - January 9 - 3:06 pm

  This is a great car! Its fun to drive and gets even better gas mileage than the window sticker promised. It looks cool, seats four adults comfortably, and I got a great deal too.

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  The Best Thing on the Road for under 20K - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By R Benjamin - January 7 - 10:00 am

  I did a lot of research on the Mazda3 and boy did it pay off! It has more HP than the Sentra, Elantra and Corolla. Its fun to drive and great on the highway. Mazda did a great job with the interior design (plastics look top notch). I was a little disappointed with the fuel economy. Aside from that, the car rides smooth and it has plenty of passing power for the highway. The sporty design and feel puts it at the top of the class in the economy/compact car segment. Heated leather seats are a huge plus. I also like the leather trim in the doors. I wish they would give you a trial offer for Sirius when I purchased it. I might have been more inclined to keep the service had they done so.

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  What a beauty! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Markus Thormann - January 4 - 1:10 pm

  This is a wonderful car. I compared it to other similar cars in its class (Civics, Jettas, Golfs, Subarus, Corollas) and the M3 stands above all of them. I am elated to have purchased this car!

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  Big surprise - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Mark - January 1 - 3:36 pm

  My wife researched this car for 2 months, but I did not pay much attention to her reviews. When we went to test drive the car I was very impressed by its looks and handling. Also very impressed with the options the car came with. Blue-tooth, 2.5 ltr engine, 6 speed manual, etc too many to name. Also very impressive dashboard design. I also like the 17" tires.

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  40 MPG Gotta luv that. - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jeff Adams - January 1 - 3:56 am

  I have put 20,000 highway miles on this vehicle during the last 6 months. It is as smooth now as the day I bought it. I love the body style and the thrill of driving such a stylish yet affordable vehicle.