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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  Best in class - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By gokalps - December 6 - 10:00 am

  This car is the best in its category. After an extensive search I decided on this car, and two weeks of ownership proves me right. What an amazing car to drive. It definately feels and drives like a more expensive car. If you are shopping for a civic, corolla, matrix or scion, check this one too. You will love it!!

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  Great all-around car! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By chipfiev - December 6 - 10:00 am

  The Mazda 3s hatchback is the perfect car for this suburbanite. Its quick and fun to drive, yet still gives high 20s gas mileage on my stop-and-go commute. Its very tossable, but still manages to let me haul people and things. The car also just looks great - especially in Winning Blue. And the price - very well equipped for under $20K is a great deal these days.

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  Cool car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By trevorhirst - December 6 - 10:00 am

  This is a sweet little hatchback. Similar in shape to the European Fiat Bravo of a few years back, but very much modernized and beefed up with sharper edges and nice 17" alloys. The interior is pleasingly simple, especially the dash and it is nice to be able to switch off the crazy light show from the stereo. The combination of blue and orange lights on the dials may sound gross, but it looks really good and more importantly is very clear. This car replaced a VW Bug convertible (a lemon) and the difference in quality is immeasurable.

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  Wow! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Boston - November 25 - 1:10 pm

  This car sets the value bar at a new level. Think Honda value with Acura performance. Drove an SUV since 1998, and have not looked back at all. This car excels at everything. Handling, acceleration, slick 5-speed, amazing build quality. You could easily change the Mazda logo to BMW, Acura or Lexus and people would believe. First tank of gas delivered 29.6 mpg in mixed! Strongly recommended.

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  Mazda3s - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By darin - November 16 - 9:20 am

  My wife and I always liked the 3 since it came out but never bought one until now. So far I think it is a great car compared to the others in its class. You feel like you spent in the 30 to 40 price range. Upscale interior compared to others in its class, great styling was also a key in our purchase. I am pleased with the gas mileage, although should be better. You will not find a car that gets better MPG that is this fun to drive.

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  Fabulous Car - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Gary - November 10 - 10:13 pm

  My Mazda 3 wagon is the coolest car I have ever owned. It is fabulous and I would highly recommend it. It drives like a sports car; it has ample room for passengers and gear. On a recent road trip I consistently got 33-35 mpg. (typically, 27 around town.) Yet is has plenty of power and cruises very comfortably while relaxing and listening to the CD.

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  my blue zoom zoom! - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By ariesgirl - November 10 - 9:50 pm

  I missed driving a stick. So, I went out lookin for one,and I got the pick of the litter, and at the right price too! I just LOVE my new,low mileage, metallic blue zoom-zoom. It ROCKS!!!!!

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  In limbo... - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By imnmpbaby - November 9 - 7:30 pm

  I had been looking at a Mazda 3 for about a year, and finally purchased mine back in May- its beautiful and gets a lot of looks around town. Moving from a Pontiac Grand Am GT1 to this car took a bit of getting used to, but I really enjoy my new car. If they could fix the AC problem with this model, this car would be absolutely perfect!

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  The Perfect Utility Commuter Car - 2012 Mazda Mazda3
  By tr_pe - November 9 - 5:36 am

  Having a 70 mile (round trip) commute to drive every day will make you think long and hard about what you want in a car. I waited about 4 months to write this review so I would have a large sample size to go on. About 80-85% of my driving are freeway miles, in San Francisco Bay Area traffic. Having now put about 9,000 miles on the car, I can tell you unequivocally that I made the right choice in a new vehicle. I am AVERAGING 39 mpg. I could probably get better than 40 if I slowed down a little. Ive had the mileage get as high as 44.5 mpg over a 35 mile stretch with the cruise control locked in at 65 mph. YSeats are comfy for extended drives. Manual tranny and clutch are very precise.

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  Fan-freakin-tastic - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Amanda - November 8 - 2:33 pm

  I test drove the Mazda and fell in love. To be fair I drove a civic just to make sure... it was no contest. The Mazda and I just clicked like it was meant to be. Ive had no problems yet, although I thought I had a problem with the clock losing time. Its been ok for a day now so well see.