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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  In love with this car!! - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By josh259 - March 7 - 5:03 pm

  I absolutely love this car. It handles great, its nice and compact but still has plenty of room, its stylish, quick, and gets pretty good gas mileage which is great since I travely about 300 miles per week just going to and from work.

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  Good but not great - 2011 Mazda Mazda3
  By lisal79 - March 5 - 11:56 am

  We recently bought a Mazda 3 right before Christmas. My husband and I both just loved the way it looked and drove. We didnt even notice the goofy grin, and even noticing now, I think its cute. I do wish that the car got better gas mileage. Right now were getting about 25mpg which isnt great. That is one of my regrets with purchasing this car considering that gas prices are starting to rise again.

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  I like many things about this car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By James Forte - March 5 - 2:00 am

  Coming out of a 98 Passat, I wanted more basic ride for my daily driver. The MAZDA3 is good, but certainly not comparable in attention to detail (but its $7K less!). I am happy with the fuel economy and design, although materials could be better. Mazda should be proud and has a car that competes with the base Jetta and Corolla. The real problem with this car is its brand. Nothing symbolizes second rate more than Mazda with its childish campaigns (please stop!). The goofy kid/song – argh! Fortunately for Mazda, the product exceeds its poor brand image. For me, I have to fend off all of my buddies who tease me about Zoom Zoom (it’s better than Suzuki!).

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  A Total Redesign - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By MZDADRVR410 - March 3 - 11:33 pm

  I test drove 22 cars in 5 weeks while I was shopping for a new car. The 2010 Mazda 3 s GT 2.5 was the very first car I drove, and was the car that I purchased. For a car in this class you simply cannot and will not find more available options. Fully loaded this cars sticker price is about 24,000 and its worth every penny. This car is zippy, fun to drive, and responsive, but still maintains a smooth ride. There are options available in this car that you wont even find in a 3 series BMW.

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  Just a rental by an 04 Mazda 6 V6 owner - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jeff - March 2 - 2:20 am

  Rented a new 3 on a biz trip. This car didnt appear to be very heavily optioned, but I was surprised at how peppy it was. Interstate ride VERY smooth and quiet, just a little wind noise from driver door weatherstripping. Great sound system, great AC.

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  Sporty Performance AND Good Fuel Economy - 2012 Mazda Mazda3
  By hoveringfalcon - March 1 - 10:47 am

  The beauty of the SKYACTIV Mazda3 is that it achieves good gas mileage without making any sacrifices when it comes to agility. Id estimate my driving to be around 2:1 highway/city. I get on the highway for about 35 minutes going to work, and 35 minutes coming back. On my days off, my driving would mostly be considering "city driving"-- short bursts of movement between stoplights. I average 36 to 38 miles to the gallon with those driving conditions, which I find pretty darn impressive. If I was driving exclusively on the highway I have no doubts I could hit 40 mpg. All the while, if push comes to shove and Ive gotta get my Zoom-Zoom on, SKYACTIV doesnt disappoint.

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  Unbelievable - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Unbeilevable - February 28 - 1:33 am

  I almost bought the BMW 325. A friend bought this car; I was so impressed with it that I decided to buy the Mazda instead and I am not sorry. Automatic climate control, heated leather seats, xenon headlamps, auto rain sensors the list goes on all for $20,000.00 I love this car! I saved about $12,000. Average mph is 28-30 for me (had an X-Terra that got 15 mph so I am thrilled). Cannot say enough about this car.

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  What Can I Say!!! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Senna 27 - February 27 - 2:00 am

  Owned the car for 36 days now and its been in the shop for 10 of them! They cant solve the engine problem, hesitation, poor acceleration, poor gas mileage. Defective air bag sensor, part back ordered. Cant drive car until fixed. Theyre not sure when that will be! So not impressed with it so far!

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  ya gotta be kidding me! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Riverguy - February 27 - 2:00 am

  O.K., we have only had it for 3 days but it has to be our favorite car of all time. Handles great, smooth, strong, comfortable and fun. If it turns out to be reliable, we will trade it in on the successor. We fight over who has to take the Denali.

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  Six months in - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By JT in SC - February 23 - 6:50 am

  Updating my earlier review: I have had my Mazda 3 i Touring (with manual transmission) for six months now (just over 7500 miles). I am still very happy. Fuel economy has actually gotten better! And thats with running the A/C much more. I am getting around 31-32 around town and 34-35 on the highway. It is still a solid performer and just as much fun to drive.