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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  great car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By sha - December 13 - 10:00 am

  Very fun to drive. Great car for new families. Built in safety for child seat. Sporty on the inside and outside. Great on gas and still has great get up and go.

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  Features without the Price - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By TwoBit - December 13 - 10:00 am

  When I was test driving cars I had never even heard about the Mazda 3. Friend mentioned it, I was trying to be very opened minded when looking for a car. I tested it and fell in love. I love all of the features and price range. My friend has a 2003 Acura TL type S and there were features mine had that he wish his had. Power is good. Good gas milages for the size of the car. I LOVE this car.

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  This car amazes me! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Gina - December 12 - 2:43 pm

  Having owned Mazdas for years, I would not have dreamed of buying anything else. Had a 626 for 16 years and just purchased a 2004 one owner 3s in Strato Blue. I love this car! It is much more fun to drive than anything Ive owned previously. It hugs corners and glides over bumps and for a 4 cylinder 2.3 engine it really has some power. The seats are beyond comfortable and with the sports and power package it turns heads everywhere I go. Although I have not yet needed an oil change (only had the car 3 weeks now), I am concerned with the thread I just read about poor design in the cartridge oil filter. Waiting to see if anyone else has similar problems with that.

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  Silver 5 speed with ABS, Sunroof, 6CD - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By poblano99 - December 7 - 10:00 am

  I think I got a steal on this car. Exactly the color and options I wanted for just under 18K (just over invoice!) So far I have 2000 miles with Chicago city and highway driving. Fun little car for zipping around the city. Handles great, easy to park, gets good mileage for the power. Im tall and can get comfortable but wish the seats moved up and down or the seat bottom pivoted back to accomodate my long legs. Chose Mazda over Golf, Audi TT, Mini, Volvo. I think Mazda is the better value for my needs.

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  Top car for the money, with a few quirks - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Aaron Oliver - December 7 - 10:00 am

  Thinking about this car? Well, its a solid choice. Dont waste your money on the larger engine, though. Even with the manual transmission, its weak, and city fuel economy is poor for this class: I get about 20 m.p.g. in town. Highway mileage is quite a bit better at around 31 m.p.g. On the plus side, handling and braking are both terrific, and the manual shifts smoothly, with just a hint of "notchiness." Interior space is also very good. A few parts are cheaply made. The glove box latches into a flimsy, molded-in, plastic bracket/notch. The drivers side fabric on my car began to pull away from the underlying cushion after only 6 months.

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  fun to drive - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Mike - December 7 - 2:56 am

  I have loved owning this car - its a lot of fun to drive, gas mileage is great, peppy engine. Only gripe is the tires - Im putting on my 4th set in a year. Tried switching to another type hoping that would help, but nothing lasts longer than 4 months. Hopefully, Mazda will address this issue soon as its becoming a major cost factor.

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  Bang for the Buck - Knock on Wood - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Master D - December 5 - 4:03 am

  Okay fellas ... It would be a wise investment for the safety of all to purchase a set of winter rims and tires as most of us above the 49th parallel understand that there are different compounds and characteristics of rubber that suit different temperatures and environments. The M3 has great curb appeal, well laid out interior - with excellent visibility ( the rear head rests can be removed easily and replaced as needed), excellent fuel mileage when driven decently, excellent handling and acceleration for highway passing. Overall one of the best improvements by a manufacturer in the economy/4cyl class - hope it holds true to my experiences so far ... knock on wood!

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  All in the details - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Ben MazdaSP - December 4 - 6:00 pm

  I got my Mazda SP after spending months researching and test driving sport sedans from EVERY other manufacturer. I was very meticulous and demanding. I then knew exactly what I wanted: a charcoal Mazda3 S manual. It took me weeks to find and was floored when I did. Great car! Transmission is superior to all others that I drove. The interior is designed very well; you can tell a great deal of thought went into every detail on this car. This car feels as though it should be 2-3 times more expensive than it is. I dont ever feel that I have to drive somewhere, I GET to drive somewhere! Ive had it for awhile and still love it.Its done great both in the hot summer and on snowy mountain passes.

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  Very Happy - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Brook - December 4 - 3:56 am

  Just bought a 2006 Mazda 3 Grand Touring. Only one day old so all I can say is so far so good. The "bells and whistles" are the best part along with solid driving feel. I love the manual choice on the automatic. Dealer said if you use it consistently you can dramatically improve gas mileage. Need to see if thats true. I bargained hard for this car and you can get it for invoice if you wait and compete for different bids.

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  Love it and hate it - 2011 Mazda Mazda3
  By iaintdeadyet - November 30 - 4:33 am

  I owned a 2005 3i for 5 years and it fit me like a glove.My 2010 3s 5 door is a much better car,quieter,smoother riding and much faster. Only problem is the economics are out of whack.The power window switches are too far away,(I keep opening the rear window) and the telescoping wheel does not come back far enough with the seat all the way back,Im 62"