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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  Very good but not great - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Veronica - February 26 - 2:20 am

  I bought this Mazda after trading in my 1999 Protege ES (which I loved)with 110K miles. There are a few things I notice with the 3 that arent as good as the Protege. First is the stereo. The new one is VERY weak. That was one of the impressive things about the Protege - given that it was a small economy car. Second are small things like the window controls and vanity mirrors. The quality isnt the same. It seems like the new version uses cheaper, flimsy parts. The leather wrapped steering wheel feels like sandpaper. The old one felt great. The AC in this car is extremely weak. I could run it on full blast all day and never get really cold. Back seat is not as roomy.

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  Mazda - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By cbw wilson - February 23 - 8:30 pm

  I love it. The 2.3 has plenty of power and it handles great. I average around 29 miles per gallon in mixed driving with the air on. The trunk is large for a car this size and has plenty of room. Im 63" and have room and someone still can sit behind me. The only drawback is there is no 12 volt outlet. I have to use the cigarette lighter and it shuts off with the car.

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  Zippy 3 - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Tostadoesq - February 23 - 2:00 am

  I love my new car. It has all the features of a luxury car, yet it comes in a small package (easy to park)and at a reasonable price. The navigation is great, and the utility of the hatchback comes in handy.

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  too fast too furious - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By sal bumpensaro - February 23 - 2:00 am

  awsome ride. awesome speed. out of the box performance that rivials all of the tricked out street racers. its got big rims, low profile tires, a fast engine and tons of features.

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  Worth it - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By vimalxxx - February 22 - 5:43 am

  Overall a really nice car. Had a few problems at the start like dusty back brakes. ECU had to be reflashed twice and thermosat went bad but the dealership took care of it. A-

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  A Fun Value - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Reader - February 20 - 8:50 pm

  After 11 months and 14,500 miles, Im still extremely happy with this car. I have an automatic, with ABS, and sunroof. Its fun to drive and surprisingly comfortable, even on long highway trips. Mazdas done a great job in developing a car that is both fun and practical. Thats not to say its a perfect car as it does have some minor problems - but for the money, its very difficult to beat. The dealer experience was also much better than expected. Complaints are relatively few: gauges tend to wash out in bright sunlight, the tires are great in normal driving but not very good in the snow, and the textured interior material, while it looks great, scuffs easily.

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  Zoom-Zoom is Fun-Fun - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Van Sinclair - February 18 - 5:50 pm

  I bought mine in Oct. of 2006 and it is really fun to drive. I got the manual so I could actually feel the car when I drive. I wanted one a couple of years ago when they first came out but bought something else instead. I am glad I finally own one. This thing flies and handles for its size and price.

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  AC - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By jose q - February 18 - 10:00 am

  this vehicle has everything that you want in a car.. but if you live in phoenix az where the weather is hot or went the summer comes by...you going to have lots of proble because the AC dont work like other vehicle...is justa cool air coming out your vent...went the weather is 80 degree ...if you got kid you wont be able ride on the back seat they will fry..

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  Great Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By rrrcb - February 18 - 10:00 am

  We might buy the sedan now!

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  MAZDA 3S 4 DR Sedan - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By ajgbev31 - February 17 - 2:00 am

  Excellent handling and performance. Drove Audi for last 6 years and this car has that Euro look. Mazda definitely has a winner here!! For the price, has the best combination of design and fun to drive.