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:
Showing 1751 through 1760 of 2,343.00-
Mazdas continued rise to greatness!! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
By dpayton - August 2 - 10:00 amI was originally planning to purchase the new Mazda6 sedan, but when a local dealer got me behind the wheel of the Mazda3, I was hooked. Not only was this car sportier, but it handles better than the 6. It also offers a navigation system, and leather which is unheard of for this class of car (even the 6 didnt offer the navigation system). The engine loves to rev and is incredibly quiet. Ive caught myself almost red-lining the engine many times due to the quiet nature of the engine. The 3 also handles like a dream, taking corners with confidence and gives the driver the feeling of complete security even when pushing the car.
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Nothing compares - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
By Enthusiast - July 30 - 11:43 amDismissed the Corolla outright because of its appliance-like nature. Civic seemed too unrefined in comparison, and was turned off by so-so reviews of the Cobalt. At this price range, theres nothing that even comes close to the 3. This car is simply superb! The exterior (especially of the hatchback), is distinctive; the interior is comfortable, attractive, and refined. Performance from the smooth 2.3L engine is more than adequate, and its a joy to row through the gears. Too early to report on fuel economy, but this car begs to be driven hard, so Im not expecting stellar mileage. Dont take my word for how great this car is - read the reviews by the professionals and test drive it!
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Quick, cool, and great mileage. - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
By Mazda Lover - July 27 - 5:46 amI have 34k miles on the car and have not had one problem yet. The car continues to have the same acceleration as the day I bought it (2.3L). The comfort is amazing for a large adult who is 64 tall. I have family members who are taller and enjoy driving it. The suspension is sporty and responsive. I drive on the highway most of the time and get 32-34 mpg. The look of the car is amazing!!
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Zoom for the money! - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
By Happy - July 26 - 11:06 amAt 53 sold my impractical touring motorcycle so I needed some sport w/practicality. Drove VW Rabbit, but 2.3 Mazda 3 was smoother and have owned both in the past, Mazda more reliable. Most important is Electronic Stability Control, have not been able to get it to skid, it is like glued to the road like a Porsche 911 but more balanced. Precise steering. Acceleration is good, better than I expected and it is fun to pass 3 cars at a time on two lane highway. Needed manual and sun roof to keep sport feeling but is clumsy with cell phone in traffic. Very quiet at hwy speeds, 3,050 rpm at 70 in 5th, redlines at 6,500 rpm (top 149 mph??). S Touring has lots of features, cruise, etc. Doors solid.
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My New 3 - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
By psyshack - July 17 - 5:16 pmI traded an 06 Civic EX sedan, 5MT w/navi for the Mazda3. What does that tell you. :) The Mazda is a much more drivable car. A bit more comfortable and more pep. At a cost of worse gas mileage. Getting in and out of the car is easer. Lumbar support on the drivers seat is useful.
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Hot Lil Ride - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
By Kam Kam - July 17 - 11:36 amThe first time I saw this car I wanted it. I thought it was going to cost more than I could afford. I was shocked at how affordable it is. I was so happy that I didnt have to settle for any bland looking, low horse powered, uncomfortable compact car! The Mazda3 is a blast to drive! It drives very nicely and handles corners like a breeze.
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Wow.... - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
By linalunar - July 14 - 1:10 pmI traded in my 2004 Honda civic EX for this car. Although the payments were a little higher because of the APR, it was worth the increase. My insurance went down about $50/month and that balanced out the costs. This car is the best! I love it so much. Much better power/acceleration, air conditioning, braking, stereo ... EVERYTHING! Gas is a little more expensive, but so what? Car is worth every penny and more. Dont buy in a dark color unless you do not tailgate, front end paint chips easily. Otherwise I love my car! Cant wait for summer to cruise around more often. LOVE IT LOVE IT LOVE IT!
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A step up... - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
By Maria - July 11 - 11:46 pmI kept my 2001 Mazda Protege for 7 years (It treated me well... Thanks Protege!) I decided to update to a simple 08 Mazda 3 i sport. I absolutely love it! Even though it has no power windows or locks, I still enjoy it. I got my Mazda in icy blue metallic, a spoiler and tinted. Its also a manual with just the right amount of power (2.0L). It will save me money later on. Ill be keeping this one for a while!
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A blast to drive - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
By Steve - July 11 - 12:23 amYou wont find a sportier car in this price range. The stiff suspension and quick acceleration make this car a blast to drive. However, if youre looking for a luxurious, comfortable ride, you may want to consider a Civic because the stiff suspension in the M3 makes for a bumpy ride. I personally dont mind it because I bought the car for its superior handling and acceleration and so far I absolutely love the car.
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SO HAPPY! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
By SP23 4speed auto - July 10 - 11:33 amIve only had the car for 24 hrs but it drives spectacular! Inside, people say its more luxurious than my cousins 2002 BMW 330! I have saddle brown leather and navigation in mine. The auto shifts super smooth and the manual mode is nice. Another cousin of mine says its quieter than his 04 RX- 8. I just love the car. A bit pricey for its segment $23,700 was my final deal..but I did get every option available (sunroof, nav, spoiler and aluminun gas cap). The rims look nicer than the RX-8s too!!! My sis has a Corolla S 04 and the ride in my 3 is so much sportier but not too sporty. Id recomend this to anyone wanting beamer quality 4 around 23k. Back seats both fold for a HUGE trunk 2!! :)
