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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  Love it! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By HartOPS4 - February 17 - 2:00 am

  I think this is an excellent car. I went from one of Detroits "best" (a Chevy) to this car. No comparison. The build quality, ride, and value are excellent. Definitely more car for the money.

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  Terrific Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By xception531 - February 11 - 10:00 am

  I am ga-ga over this car. It is enormously fun to drive, and feels faster than it is. It corners like its on rails. It is also very practical with a decent trunk space. After looking extensively at many many different models of cars new and used, I am convinced that this car is the perfect one for me at this time, balancing all the attributes of fun, value, practicality, and safety. Sure there are cars with nicer interiors, or that cost less, or that hold more, or that are more fun to drive (maybe not), or that are safer... but the Mazda has the best balance of any competitors. My parents want to trade in their Mini for one now!

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  3 year 60000 mile test drive - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By mzdvr - February 10 - 11:13 am

  Been driving this car for 3 yrs now and still think its the best car under $25,000. I havent had any mechanical problems. Had a brake job at 50,000 and new tires. I live in the city and get a combined 27 mpg. I have a gas gauge which commonly reports mpg in the middle to upper 30s on the highway. There is minimal wear on the car after 60k such as a small area of the stitching on the leather seat has come out, a few exterior issues due to things happening to it.

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  2014 Mazda 3 S Grand Touring Sedan Makeover: The Poor Man’s Luxury Sport Car - 2014 Mazda Mazda3
  By nfp - February 10 - 5:31 am

  This is my 5th Mazda and by far the best of a good lot. At this early juncture, so far this model, entirely re-designed from front to back outside and inside, appears to be every bit as good as claimed by the automotive reviews that have lauded it as best in the compact class. I chose the classy, sporty-looking sedan over the odd-shaped hatchback that I don’t feel is anywhere near as nice-looking. This car looks, feels and drives a class above others in the compact class, which is good because at the S Grand Touring trim level its more expensive. Its also more comfortable to ride in than my two previous 3s (2008 and 2010). My buns thank Mazda because the ride is still firm.

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  Its in the details - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Unbreakable - February 9 - 10:30 pm

  At first glance this car sets itself apart with bold styling. Wide fender flares, an aggressive nose and unique style make it very eye appealing. The real catch is in the details. From the hidden cup slots in the doors to the unique multi-colored dash lights to the leather wrapped steering wheel, the car just feels like a higher dollar car despite the modest price tag. Great bang for the buck!

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  Mazda3 GT Sport Hatchback is worth it! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By NeoSetna - February 9 - 4:33 am

  Great handling, great on fuel and over all this car is worth more than 35 grand, CDN dollars ... and I got it for 27 grand. Import all the way!

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  Would Buy AGAIN ! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By joe mcmahan - February 7 - 10:00 am

  I also own a 2003 Honda Civic EX 4- Dr.Comparison of the two is like night and day.My wife and I drive the Mazda when we go on a trip or vacation.The Mazda drives, ride and seating is much better.

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  Great Car - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Tbizz H - February 5 - 2:06 am

  Ive had this car for almost 5 years. During that time Ive taken it to the dealers to get fixed twice. One time was so they would tighten the wiper blades and the other was a sensor that was throwing faults. They were both before warranty expired and I havent had a problem since. I drive 40 miles to work everyday and it does it very well. Ive used synthetic fuel since 20K every 7 thousand miles. That may have contributed to the reliability but I doubt it. Mines a manual transmission too.

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  Clutch Issue - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Raquel - February 2 - 3:20 pm

  I purchased a 2010 mazda 3 hatchback on 5/31/09. Car was driven for only two days and had problems w/ the clutch disc. Dealer repaired the issue then drove the car the next day. Car just stopped in the middle of the road and will not move, this time dealer ended up changing the clutch and transmission.To make the long story short I opted for a collateral exchange with the same model and specification as the 1st car I purchased.I got a 2nd car,after driving it for 2 weeks, car broke down again bec of the burnt clutch.I have driven a manual stick shift car for almost 20 years and this problem never happened to my Accord and Acura.I opted for lawyer representation bec Mazda wont fix the issue

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  Extremely good car- Both looks and Value - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By cheezhead21855 - January 30 - 3:13 pm

  getting 30-37 mpg. Turns heads. Overhear people saying thats what i want... Only regret is that i could not get with sunroof when purchased and the ventilation is a bit strange without it. Otherwise a fantastic car and I was able to get at an unusually low price- so negotiate! You will not be disappointed in this car..