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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  Three months of the 3 - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By DRCola - January 22 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car in early January and I am pleased with jumping into this new model as soon as I did. I got one with all the options. The car is quick, and has a smooth, quiet ride. The sport automatic is a nice compromise, for one who is used to a manual transmission. The exterior styling is very nice.

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  My Mazda is a Rocket Ship - 2012 Mazda Mazda3
  By jennypenny575 - January 21 - 6:34 pm

  Ive been driving a 2000 Ford Focus SE Sedan before this car, so you can imagine that most cars would be a vast improvement. Not so, my Focus was a great car, it had great pickup, decent gas mileage(23 mixed) and a rather comfortable ride. But my Mazda is a rocketship. I had wanted a Mazda3 back in 2008 when I was originally car shopping. I ended up with a 7 year old focus because the Mazda was out of my price range. So the fact that I have it now is even sweeter. After test driving the Versa, the Focus, the Fit, and the Elantra, it was pretty much a runaway with the Mazda. I knew it was the car for me 5 minutes into the test drive. Smooth driving, fun to shift, everything is great.

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  After the 1st one I did it again! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By oscart - January 21 - 11:23 am

  After we picked up my wifes mazda 3 2007 grand t. I had to have one too. I loved my nissan z but for the price this car is a sleeper in the USA. the 3 lets you feel the road and it likes to be pushed.

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  Awesome - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By John99999999 - January 20 - 6:13 am

  Love it. So much fun to drive. Now just wish there was no speed limits. Handles well in turns, nice ride. For sure the best compact/sedan out there in its class.

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  Love my Zoom Zoom - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Nicole - January 20 - 5:16 am

  After weeks and weeks of research, I narrowed it down to a Toyota and a Mazda. I purchased my Mazda3 about 4 hours away from home and had so much fun driving it on the highway! It will really get up and go! I dont find the road noise to be a problem. I love the leather interior! And the adjustable headlights are AMAZING! I was amazed at how much I like the auto wipers and lights! This is a great car and I totally recommend it! Im getting about 25 mpg in town.

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  A great Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By lunas - January 17 - 10:00 am

  I love my Mazda 3.

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  Fun to drive - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Man of Steel - January 17 - 10:00 am

  I just purchased this car a month ago and I am impressed. This car has a lot of cool features for its price range. Gas mileage has been about 28 mpg in the city! Sticker states 25 mpg in city and 32 on the highway so I cant complain. The car rides much better than the focus, or civic. I purchased a standard and have to say that I love the smooth easy shifting. I do wish the drivers seat had more leg room. The center console gets in the way of the right leg and the gas peddle seems to be to far to the right. I also wish that the car was a little more dent resistant. Overall I would highly recommend the Mazda 3 for any one in the market for a compact car.

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  mazda 3s solar yellow/loaded - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By haluse - January 17 - 10:00 am

  Overall a very nice car, fell in love with yellow. got it in manual with all options except navigation. Styling on this car is amazing no car is class comes close, ride is nice but more horsepower would be nice, although i am used to driving large sedans with 250+ horsepower. Handling is impressive and stiff ride has european feel.

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  The Right Decision for Me - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By SilverArrow - January 16 - 8:40 pm

  I have only had this car for 11 days, so I really cannot comment on my "ownership experience" yet. Still too soon! I will say that I cannot imagine finding another new car in this price range that offers so much, for so little.

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  Glad I passed on the Civic.. - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By cheezhead21855 - January 13 - 10:36 pm

  Tremendous driving experience..it feels tight on corners, has a lot more zip than my Tiburon and gets great mileage. Only owned it for a week but I am extremely happy that i opted for the Mazda rather than the Civic. I bought with my heart and not my head, but now my head agrees :) First tank of gas averaged 31 mpg.