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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  Another good Mazda - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Tim - October 26 - 3:40 pm

  Had a Mazda Protege when it came out in 1995; the car was just ok to use. Wife wanted another Mazda, so we got the Mazda3 and it is by far the best compact car that we have ever owned.

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  Amazing... - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Joe Mann - October 23 - 3:00 pm

  I have bought *many* cars (bmw, vws, honda, hyundai, chevy, ford) and this car is the most fun to drive. GREAT bang for the buck and the cockpit is designed so very well--all controls in their correct place. Love it.

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  Nice car - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jax FL - October 23 - 12:23 am

  We compared a few cars before buying it for my son’s first car. Get average 29mpg. Manual shift is fun to drive. feels solid. Good Handling

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  Great Car/Great Value - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Tom - October 21 - 12:50 am

  Bought the SP23 model with manual 5sp. Great fun to drive and has been 100% reliable. 31 MPG on the highway, going 80 MPH (yes, we can do that in Montana). Excellent room, particulary for tall drivers. Rear seat not bad. Seats provide good back and leg support. Relatively quiet until you hit around 70MPH and then you hear more road noise.

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  Underdogs R Best - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By diehard080 - October 19 - 11:25 am

  I appreciate this Mazda3 GT HB 2.5 auto even more I suspect after driving many other brands , Subaru, Toyota and specificall a 2008 Mazda3 Hb Gt 2.3 ! The upgrade in power has made the biggest change in this cars overall appeal . The suspension has been retweaked to make the slalom in the times it did back in 2008 when the suspension was similar to an old Alfa without shocks .But this one does and the ride is smoother and even more predictable than B4. They eliminated the minor vibrations from the firm suspension and when driving between 45 and 110 I feel like a racing dog that has finally been off leash .broken in w 25K it flys and overtakes cars 3x the cost. driver skill is rewarded!

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  AMAZING CAR - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By yayak - October 18 - 2:00 am

  Wonderful new sedan. Great gas mileage. Very comfortable and roomy in the front. Fun to drive and well equipped. A great car to sport around.

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  WOW, I love this car - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By jake13 - October 12 - 8:13 pm

  i just got this little ball of fire 3 days ago and oh man this is the most fun Ive ever had driving a car.

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  No Brainer-Buy this Car! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Susan - October 11 - 7:03 pm

  Great car. Fun to drive and practical. If you can drive a 5 speed get it! Zoom-Zoom. Also, if you can spring for the leather interior its a lot more comfortable than the cloth. I wanted the Lava Orange, but wound up with 5 speed, Black Mica, leather and moonroof. Im too afraid of 6 airbags to go for the ABS package. The car turns heads and people here in Slower, Lower, Delaware ask "What is that car? So far, so good, nice handling, good looks, regular gas, nice detail, good price. Even the basic package comes with lots of good stuff.

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  2nd Mazda 3 - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Sam - October 10 - 10:20 am

  This is my 2nd Mazda 3 5 door. I traded my previous 2004 model that had 33,000 miles for a tricked out one. I thought the 2004 model was a nice ride, but the 2006 seems to be smoother and quieter. Plus the Grand Touring upgrade with Nav System is very nice. Options I would expect on more expensive cars.

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  Tight Handler - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By zanellaii - October 9 - 4:00 am

  I purchased this vehicle as an alternative to driving my 4x4 pick-up back and forth to work. I drove all the competition, none of which had the quality, price, power or handling of the Mazda 3s. I am most impressed with the handling of this car. Its a safety feature as much as a plus for having fun. The fit and finish is on par with some of the best cars on the market. The solidity of the body is the best in its class, period. I have never been in a small car that didnt feel like a small car until now. Everyone who rides in the vehicle, or drives it, comments on how quiet and solid it feels. The interior is also best in class. Only complaint, no electric trunk release on keyfob.