Mazda Mazda3 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.68/5 Average
2,343 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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 1761 through 1770 of 2,343.00
  • Best of the Compact cars - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    Ive had my car for a week now. Maybe I should have sprung a little more money for the leather and sunroof and Bose stereo, but thats OK. Im trying to save some money anyway! Car has great power for a 4 cylinder. It pulls a hill on the freeway in my area in 5th gear at 60-65 no problem. Flat cornering, great steering, awesome shifter/clutch.

  • Another happy M3-5 door lover - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    6 months -12,000 miles - no complaints as the 2nd owner. Purchased new and aggressive (Michelin) tread tires which improved the cars character considerably. It was great in snow and ice this past winter with the new tires. Garaged or out overnight, always starts right up and goes. Space for salesman stuff or space for family stuff depending on the need. Happy with the purchase and would do it again.

  • Luxury on a Budget - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    I have bought dozens of new cars. You might say I am a poor mans Jay Leno. On Feb. 16,2010,I purchased a 2010 Mazda 3 GT 6sp man. sedan in graphite with 2MC,and 1TE.I got 0.0% financing and Mazdas $500 rebate.The 3 GTs MSRP is $24890,I paid $21920 plus $910 for tax,tag, and fees,total was $22830 O.T.D. I enjoy the driving dynamics, and the creature comfort features, which would cost between $5000 and $10000 in the BMW 3,Mercedes C,Infinity G,or VW CC I have owed. Thus the Mazda 3 GT is definitly Luxury on a Budget.

  • All this for under $20K! - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    Ive liked this model since it was the Protege5 and circumstances finally got around to where I bought a Mazda3 last week. I actually prefer the exterior of the P5 to that of the Mazda3 but the interior is a huge improvement (bye-bye econo-car.) My car has True Red paint with a black leather interior, 5 speed and moonroof/CD package. I also looked at the VW GTI, Passat wagon and Audi A3 and just couldnt justify spending the extra money on German "engineering." Sorry, the domestic competition was just too underwhelming to consider. The car is not perfect (see suggested improvements) but the positives FAR outweigh the negatives. MPG is 20 with all-city driving and a cherry motor.

  • More bang for your buck! - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    This is my second Mazda 3, I previously owned an 04 4 door and while the car remains mostly unchanged, its excitement keeps rising. The included dynamic stability and traction control with this model will be sure to help in the ice and snow, while the moon roof will comfort during the warmer months. The car is absolutely a work of art and I could not think of a better car to get, even for my second go around with it.

  • Great, fun car! - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    Purchased as a one owner vehicle with 34000 miles. A joy to drive with taut handling and smooth manual transmission. Light clutch that took a bit of getting used to. No issues with rattling or brakes. Prefer having a coolant gauge that the new models dont have. Comfortable seats, better than average stereo system and Ipod jack is a plus. Great acceleration in second and third gears and very stable at speed for a relatively light car. Mileage averages 27-28 combined city/highway. A bit noisy at speed but figure that is the sacrifice for a preferred stiffer suspension. Love it!

  • Dream Car - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    Great styling! Beautiful handling. MPG not bad. Great pick-up! Love the safety features. So comfortable to drive and very smooth on the road. Hugs corners like no other! I feel like I am glued to the road!

  • Couldnt help myself - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    Ive been looking for a small sporty car for a while now. After many hours of reseach and test driving several vehicles, I just had to buy the Mazda 3. I test drove the Honda Civic, Civic SI, Toyota Matrix, Mini Cooper S, Hyundai Elantra GT and the Mazda 3. With exception of the Mini Cooper, the Mazda 3 is by far the funnest car to drive. It just feels good to drive. The hard part is deciding between the sedan and the hatchback. Both are beautiful inside and out. I opted for the european sedan look. The handling and acceleration are excellent. If youre looking for a great small car, go test drive the Mazda 3. You wont regret it!

  • Highly Recommended - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    I was looking for a sedan that was a little sporty, but still worked economically and the 3 works perfectly on both fronts. The styling is great and for the options, fuel economy and safety reputation, it really cant be beaten. I got a 5-speed and it has more than enough pep to get going...you end up hitting 80 and not realizing it. The inside is beautiful and very fun to play around with.

  • Nice Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    I have had the new 3 for about 3 weeks now. I love it. I think the car is good looking from the inside out. Has that IS300 look to the outside, and inside looks nice with the led luminated insturment cluster. I think is great that mazda put so many options into an entry level sedan.

Mazda Mazda3 Reviews By Year:
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