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:

• 

  Pure happiness - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By larry b - September 30 - 8:50 am

  I am 67 years old but feel like a 20 year old driving this car. For only a portion of the cost this car handles as well as a Volvo S40. It is comfortable and surprisingly roomy for my wife and me. The fuel mileage, while not great, is tolerable for a car that has such get up and go.

• 

  Still Love It - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By MazdaManiac - September 28 - 7:13 pm

  I had wanted this car from the instant Mazda unveiled it. I love small sporty sedans. I researched cars for four solid years before confirming that this is the one I wanted. Almost two years of ownership and Im still in love with this car! I think its one of the most underestimated cars on the road today. It doesnt belong in the economy class, it needs to be bumped up somewhere well north of the land of Focus and Cobalt, but just south of entry-levels from Acura, BMW, and Audi. It rides perfectly, it handles great, it looks beautiful inside and out. The engine is faster than many V6s Ive driven. Ive had zero problems with it. Im VERY happy with it.

• 

  Zoom Zooms Little Ripper - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Shannon - September 26 - 8:40 pm

  I bought my Mazada3 and have enjoyed the comfort and fun style of this little car. I get compliments on it, people refer to it like a little BMW. The fuel economy is great-I have driven over 260 miles on a 1/2 tank of gas, and average 100 miles every 1/4th tank in the city. The car has very little noise and is a smooth ride. The braking system is great once you begin to wear them in. Very safe car with 6 air bags and security system. Trunk is very roomy for the size of the car. I was able to fit two of my guy friends, one at 64 and the other at 62, on the passenger side of the car and they both had good leg room. The moon roof and 5 changer package is worth the money. Awesome car!

• 

  Disappointing gas mileage - 2014 Mazda Mazda3
  By drivesalotfl - September 25 - 10:16 am

  The car is beautiful and fun to drive, but I havent gotten near the advertised gas mileage, and thats the main reason I bought the car. I went for a 6 cylinder SUV to this, and the average mileage isnt all that much better. I even took it back to the dealer thinking something was wrong with the monitoring system, but they insisted it was accurate. I am lucky to get 29 MPG on the highway. I have also had issues with the Infotainment system - similar to those published by others in various forums - GPS system all of a sudden fails, doesnt recognize commands, fade has to be set all the way to the rear to get any sound out of the rear speakers.

• 

  Very glad I bought this car! - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By JoanC - September 24 - 4:50 pm

  This is one snappy little car and Im very pleased with it. Ive had it about a week and traded a loaded 2002 Jetta turbo for it (hooray, no more premium gas!). The cars that got great mileage (e.g. the Honda Fit) didnt have the power I need for a local highway where certain onramps force you to merge from a standing stop, so the Mazda was a compromise between mileage and power. It handles and drives beautifully, is well-equipped and well-designed with excellent fit and finish. Cons: theres more road noise than Im used to and the sporty ride is stiff/bouncy. Also, the automatic transmission shift gates take some getting used to. These are just nits--I highly recommend this car.

• 

  Excellent sharp-looking Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By wilecoyote - September 24 - 2:00 am

  The worst thing about the Mazda 3 is having to choose between the 4 door or the Hatchback. They are both GREAT looking cars. Once you make the decision, hop in and enjoy the ride.

• 

  What a car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By ghettosmith - September 24 - 2:00 am

  It is a wonderful amazing car.

• 

  ZOOM ZOOM - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Mike72771 - September 22 - 10:10 am

  I still walk backwards to look at my car in parking lots. This is by far the most fun to drive car I’ve owned in ten years. Bang for the buck is an understatement when it comes to the Mazda3. Nothing can touch it!

• 

  If you love to drive - buy this car! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Winning Blue!! - September 22 - 12:30 am

  This is an awesome compact car. Call it a hatch or a wagon, it does not matter- its a great ride with utility. It has plenty of room for my small family, and is an excellent commuter or canyon carving car. Vehicles like this prove that a gas slurping SUV is not necessary in most cases. I am able to nimbly avoid traffic situations rather than drive over them. The mechanicals and refinement are excellent, and beats the new Civic hands down (drove the new 06 EX before I bought this) - no contest if you love to drive. If you are happy driving a boring car, buy the Civic or a Corolla and be happy. I drive "spirited" with the 5M (superb!) and average 30.4 mpg after 10,500 miles. Excellent buy!

• 

  My spirited M3 - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By jjr 3rd - September 21 - 7:36 am

  The vehicle is razzy and fun to drive. I am a little over 60, but enjoy the crisp and positive handing, and response I get from the 160 h.p. engine. The interior as well as the exterior is easy to maintain. Basically although a sedan, it handles like a sports car. Sticks like glue on the interstates. I am often questioned; "What kind of car is that" from various age groups. The only negative I can think of is road noise, which may be do to tire selection. Have had no problems what so ever. Other than oil changes and a tire rotation, Ive had no problems. Id buy another one.