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:

• 

  So Far I Like - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By NorCal Driver - August 14 - 11:46 am

  Was looking for a stylish car with good gas mileage for my budget. Mazda3 so far is meeting my expectations. Have only driven about 500 miles on it. It has quick acceleration and looks good on inside and out. Love the orange lighting on dash and six disc changer also aux jack is a plus. Glove box is huge and trunk is good size for car. I am getting around 25-28 miles to the gallon, thats with mixed freeway city driving. Engine is a little noisy and first minute of starting up it idles a little rough. I have not noticed much road noise. Takes corners like a champ. Speakers are average, will be replacing with some components soon. If you have extra 5k go with the Grand Touring.

• 

  Nice small car - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By arizonadragger - August 11 - 12:17 am

  I bought my 3 for the looks and mpgs. But wasnt thrilled by the mpgs after tracking them for 2 years (24mpg avg). I do a lot of city driving, but expected a little better, hwy wasnt that impressive either, 28-30 most the time. I would blame the 4 speed auto, just not enough gears to go through in the mountains. The cruise control is horrible, set it at 60 and it goes past 65 when it switches gears to accel. Accels down hills in cruise control. Wanted to use a family car but the 3 star rear side crash rating is too scary. Solo city driving, its a very nice car. But I had to sell because it was a terrible roadtrip car that just isnt safe enough.

• 

  The Right Choice - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
  By leisney - August 10 - 4:13 am

  I believe the Mazda3 is the best buy for the buck. Great acceleration and just simply fun to drive. Highly recommended.

• 

  Better than expected - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Bob - August 9 - 6:50 am

  Having driven mini-vans for 20+ years, I wanted something more economical (MPG) but still had some room to haul things. I also wanted to stay with Japanese. The M3 wasnt on my radar screen until pretty late in the game. Im embarrassed to say this but the heated seats sealed the deal for me. The price was VERY attractive, too. Now that Ive had the car for a few months and have put 6,000 miles on it, Im quite enamored with it. Great amenities. Its fun too drive -- too fun maybe. I often have a hard time going easy for the better MPG. I miss the space/convenience of a mini-van but life is all about tradeoffs. Bottom line: no regrets, at least so far.

• 

  Almost perfect - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Aliona - August 8 - 11:20 pm

  I needed a compact wagon, Mazda3 seemed to be the best in this class in March 2006. I enjoy driving it, although it aannoyingly falls short of expectations while there seems to be no reason not to make it perfect.

• 

  More Room, Less Zoom Zoom - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Now its the wifes! - August 8 - 10:20 am

  I bought my 3s to replace my totaled 626. A desire for better fuel econony and performance drove me to the 3s over the Mazda6, which had a reputation for being unreliable.Ive owned the car for exactly four months, drive 40mi daily. Im 510" and in good shape. But, no amount of seat/steering wheel adjustment has rendered a comfortable driving position. I cant find a comfortable spot for my right leg with the tapered design of the center console. The two lane black top I test drove the car on proved what a quick, nimble fun-to-drive winner Mazda created. But, I spend most of my time in rush hour traffic at 15mph. Never wouldve guessed this woould happen. So I gave it to my "dainty" wife.

• 

  Just Amazing! - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By avman - August 5 - 3:20 pm

  This car really lives up to the mazda saying of Zoom Zoom. With all the features I could ever want in a car the mazda 3 surpassed all of my expectations. The 2.3 liter engine is quick. The throttle response time is quicker and when you want to go fast the only thing standing in your way is traffic. This vehicle is not only fast but it has a beautifuly designed interior. The handling is amazing, and so is the ride. The bose sound system is the best Ive owned, and the heated seats are great. Overall the Mazda 3 is a car that will continue to leave its drivers in awe even after the drive.

• 

  Exciting car to drive! - 2014 Mazda Mazda3
  By mars54 - August 2 - 12:07 pm

  This is the first Mazda I have owned I decided to get one after my wife had bought a mazda cx 5 and I enjoyed the way it drove. I really love the way my Mazda 3s handles and how it seems to be a much more expensive car than it is.I love engaging the sport feature with the 2.5 engine the acceleration and handling are amazing!

• 

  Mazda3 - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By scchamps - July 29 - 12:16 am

  I rented this car for a weekend trip to try it out before I bought it. I was surprised how easy it was to drive. I loved the way it handled. It has great pickup. I enjoyed zipping around town in it. It really is fun to drive. I went to the Mazda dealership the day I returned the rental and bought one.

• 

  Loaded for the money - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Hong kong fooey - July 25 - 9:43 am

  I cant believe the bells and whistles this car comes with and still is incredibly low priced,add to that the build quality,you cant go wrong.This car is great for a first time buyer or for someone who realizes that BMW has very little on this mazda.