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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  mazda3 - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By ajw26 - November 13 - 10:00 am

  this is a great car to start out with, the design is great, fun to drive

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  First time Mazda Owner - 2014 Mazda Mazda3
  By justinjustin - November 11 - 7:35 am

  This car rocks!!! I traded in my 2010 Infiniti M35s - excellent car - but wanted something smaller, good looking, better on the gas mileage (main reason) but still spirited and responsive. I opted for the top of the line S Grand Touring hatchback with tech package that includes IELoop, LED brake lights, Bi-Xenon headlights, NAV, blink spot warning, etc...in pearl white. Overall I am extremely impressed with the quality of materials inside and its handling characteristics. Driver feedback is good and it grips the road extremely well. Came with 18" stock wheels. It is just as much fun to drive than my Infiniti. The 2.5L motor is REQUIRED if you want a spirited, more aggressive experience.

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  Fun To Drive - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By RoNuS - November 9 - 7:20 pm

  I put a lot of miles on my car a year; in my 7 1/2 months of ownership I have logged 22,000 miles on the car thus far. This car is a blast to drive; its nice to just turn the stereo off, roll the windows down, and listen to the engine while driving.

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  Buy it, you wont regret it - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By JohnO - November 7 - 4:30 am

  My first new car since 1997, this vehicle is fun and gutsy. I have the power to merge and pass, and the handling to take curves with little effort. I researched a Dodge and a Toyota, but after driving this car, I loved it.

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  Its a great car - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By T. Morris - November 2 - 11:03 pm

  Ive driven this car for 6 months now and I still look forward each day to drive it. It looks good, rides great and is truly fun to drive. It is very agile on the road which is especially helpful in highway traffic. Also, this car is really easy to park compared to other cars Ive owned. I would highly recommend the MAZDA3 wagon to anyone.

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  Perfect Package..Everything you want/need!! - 2012 Mazda Mazda3
  By surfnjm3 - November 1 - 4:27 pm

  I purchased my Mazda about 4 weeks ago and put just under 2k miles on it. The car has been awesome! I am a car enthusiast and since I currently cannot swing the money for a BMW I landed on the Mazda. It is a drivers car and has all the feautures you want. Great sound (even the stock system without the bose is clear and loud), bluetooth is awesome with my phone and music and the interior layout of the dash and such are clean, sensible, and easy to use. I never thought I woudl get an automatic car but commuting with a manual is just brutal, but the dual-clutch on the mazda is the most responsive ive seen in a car under 21k. Take off the traction control and the car just begs you to drive it!

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  good car with irritating problem - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By erwin - November 1 - 12:20 pm

  The car is overall well made, except for the "Check Engine" light that came on at 87 miles (and has been coming on every couple of miles or so). The dealer can give me no real explanation. it is a huge hassle to have to go to the dealer for them to "fix" the problem (which they probably just disconnect the battery for a minute or so). Otherwise, a great car.

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  Best car ever - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By yen - November 1 - 7:36 am

  This is my first brand new car after having two used ones. I have winning blue and its been my life. I love driving it, washing it, and just looking at it. I have had no problems with it. Its very fun to drive and I feel cool sitting in it.

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  Between Civic and Mazda3 - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By leo - October 31 - 3:13 am

  The ultimate factor that made me choose the Mazda3 over the Civic was the hatchback utility and cuteness factor. I love the small and zippy feel of the car. Good size for me and not many people in my area have a Mazda3 so its nice to be different on the road. The telescoping and tilting steering wheel is nice. As is the lumbar support. I didnt upgrade my audio nor have a sunroof, so its basic but definitely fun to drive.

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  Got Problems? - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By doesntmatterdoesit? - October 27 - 11:50 am

  Ive had the car for close to a year now. Yesterday was my 5th or 6th check engine light. If it is anything like the others it will be a problem with the evap system. The gas mileage isnt as good as I had expected. I am averaging 23mpg and on a good tank 25mpg. These issues have been disappointing. That being said, I really like this car. It is fun to drive. In the first few months I would volunteer to go to the store for my wife. We have even had races to get into the drivers seat first. The red sparkles at the right angle. It has muscular contours, very attractive. I have looked at "luxury" cars and dont feel like I am missing anything, especially my money. This car wants to be driven.