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:

• 

  fuel pump/car starting problem - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By bryan - February 23 - 11:13 pm

  i purchased my mazda3s 3 months ago. in the second month (4000 miles) i began to have problems starting my car. on the initial start up, the car would crank, but would not start; i would have to turn the car off & then re-start it in order for the engine to start. serviced @ dealership; they stated it was fuel pump, dealership replaced fuel pump, car worked for 3 weeks & 600 miles later (4600 miles) car is not starting again; cranks but will not start. currently no recall

• 

  superfun, but poor mpg w 2.3L - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By x519178 - February 23 - 3:30 pm

  Pros: good looking car, good output at 3000+ rpm, good handling, doesnt lean much in corners, fun to drive. Cons: poor gas mileage, brake dust, cupholder in the way of shift stick, absent low end torque, poor visibility

• 

  Best Bang for the Buck. - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By damian - February 18 - 8:06 am

  Outstanding suspension for hard roads,it feels sturdy and well balanced at high speeds. Fast off the blocks, stops on a dime. Combined 25 MPG = pwr & economy. Interior build is a superb finish, includes many options. Passenger glove compartment is easily 18 inches deep. Center arm rest sits above a 2 deck compartment with an MP3 and an extra electric outlet. This same center compartment continues toward the center where a door opens for 2 cup holders. Telescopic steering wheel aids for precise seating comfort. Sporty European exterior accented with front/rear stylish lights which standout for looks. Mirror like paint job is perfect. Trunk space is big and not overbearing to the cars look.

• 

  Picked the Mazda 3 over the Volvo S40 - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By ekcooper - February 17 - 6:20 pm

  It was time to trade my 2007 Mazda 3 & I was looking at the Volvo S40. The Volvo design was appealing & the size was similar to my 07 Mazda 3. I test drove the 2010 Mazda 3 Grand Touring and the Volvo S40. No comparison! Although I really liked the idea of owning a Volvo (safety & status), it really could not compete w/ the fun-to- drive feel of the Mazda. The sticker price for the LOADED (everything including navi & push-button start) Mazda was $25,900 while the Volvo (with some amenities but nowhere near the options) was $32,000. For the feel of the two, there was just no way to justify a $6,000 difference. And, the 2010 Mazda feels much better than its 2007 predecessor. I love this car!

• 

  Great value - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Great from A to B - February 15 - 8:13 am

  This is the first car that I have owned and I bought it new in 2006. I loved this car for all seasons but winter. This car is horrible in the snow! The handling is great if the roads are not wet. The car is overly noisy going over puddles and water. I have no other complaints about this car besides driving it in snow/ice.

• 

  I love my Mazda3! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Carrie - February 13 - 1:23 pm

  This is my first car ever, my grandparents bought it for me for my 16th birthday, and I absolutely love it! I have the i 4dr Sedan in silver with a manual transmission. I have had so much fun in this car that I never want to drive an automatic or anything other than a Mazda ever again! My brother, who is 61, has more legroom in my Mazda3 than he does in his Honda Civic, and the trunk is as big as my dads Toyota Camry. All of my friends are jealous of the interior that lights up in red, and the chic design of it. I havent had a single problem with my Mazda3 (other than stalling out when I was learning how to drive the stick). I named my car Dolce, and it really is very sweet!

• 

  2011 Mazda MAZDA3 i touring - 2011 Mazda Mazda3
  By galego - February 12 - 8:48 am

  I just got my new mazda and I have to say this is a really nice car. I am 18 year old male that is 5 10" and it has plenty of room. I was originally wanted the 2012 Ford Focus, but after they did not come down on their price I went with the mazda. I am not dissapointed at all with my purchase I got an excellent deal on the car. Now when i drive i drive it like a mazda not a commuter car and i average about 25 miles per gallon. Before i bought the mazda I was driving a 1997 f-150 so the gas miledge to me is much better improvement.

• 

  Mazda 3 is better than BMW 3 - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Soflbulls - February 8 - 10:43 pm

  This car is awesome for the money! I had a BMW 3 prior. The Mazda has tons more features and drives and handles just like the BMW did. I think the inside is even better. I actually look forward to driving this car!

• 

  I love it. - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Brian Parker - February 8 - 4:33 pm

  Purchased used w/21K miles, fell in love immediately. Worst fuel mileage 30, best 45 on a leisurely trip on state highways with 60 or lower speed limits. Key to good mileage is to not run the RPMs up in every gear, let the torque work for you. Before you get the impression I am a slow driver, I have had this well over the speed limits plenty of times, I love to let it go, but I also enjoy getting good mileage. Last trip to Florida got me 39mpg average between state highways and interstate up to 72mph. Almost 30K miles so the noisy OEM tires will be replaced with quieter good tires. Yes, a remote trunk opener would be great, but its still one of the better cars I have owned.

• 

  Looking Good - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By shippy1973 - February 6 - 7:23 pm

  Excellent handling and acceleration for a 2.3L. May be a tight fit for taller people. Really fun to drive. Way too much brake dust on rear wheels. Factory tires will be expensive to replace. Has 17" rims. A/C could be colder. Comes with almost every option most drivers want as standard. Love the steering wheel controls. Trunk space is adequate unless you shop for groceries once a month. As advertised gas mileage (approximately 27). Gas light comes on at about 2-3 gallons left. Love the interior panel lighting. Auto/Manual mode is cool to play with and you dont have to downshift when in manual mode. Rear leg room is sparse. Overall, I am very happy with my purchase 7 months in.