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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  Sweet Car! - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Mike - November 8 - 8:16 am

  I just got a Mazda3 S Touring 5 door galaxy grey and its really sweet! I test drove the Honda Civic. I am 63 and didnt fit too well inside and it was a little slow. I also test drove the Acura RSX and the same thing. Then I test drove the M3 and it was awesome, really roomy and drives like a dream. I am 21 and its my first new car. I have a little over 600 miles so far and its perfect so far.

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  Honest Humble Masterpiece! - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Damian35 - November 8 - 2:50 am

  All in one top car for its class. Power when you need it, MPGs are adequate enough, Stops on a dime, Frontal chassis & great suspension provide a great ride. Interior features only lack cruise control, gps and a drivers seat with height position ajustment but the telescopic steering wheel make up for it. The center arm rest and compartment console position you perfectly and even when the seat quality is less then the top model it extends on its side to hold you in place. The sound system rocks, I especially like the dash design and everything to go with it, fit and finish is perfect. Passenger space is adequate for a car its size and I vehemently disagree with others the truck is big.

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  A real drivers car - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By DaGreatChaz - November 5 - 3:46 pm

  For the money, you wont find a better driving hatchback out there (minus the Mazdaspeed3, GTI, STI, etc. of course). Typical Mazda steering, powerful brakes, and fantastic grip. If the aforementioned are more important to you than mpg, the Maz3 is definitely worth a look. Fuel economy is ok, but certainly not great for a compact, as has been said by many others. Driving from CA to NY (all interstate with speeds around 75-80), I averaged around 30 mpg. A typical tank with mixed city and hwy driving will yield 22-26 mpg. For those who cannot see their gauges in daylight, you need to push that little button on the instrument cluster to alternate your dash lighting - there are two modes

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  I love my Mazda 3!! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By ryandme - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I love the looks and lines of this car. It is sporty and sassy and drives just that way. The handling is great with very little body role as you power through turns. The interior is well thought out with everything at your fingertips. I didnt think I would like the auto-shift feature, but it is growing on me, in fact I have it in that mode most often. It seems to increase the engine power and maneuverability of the car. The fact that I can get a car with such grat drivability thats fully loaded with all the extras at such a great price is exciting. I love driving it - I am very pleased with this car.

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  great car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By steve09 - November 4 - 2:00 am

  its simply just a great car

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  i love it - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By homogenius - November 4 - 2:00 am

  it has very nice turning. easy to drive. runs very very smooth i like how it comes with nice tires. i love how the interior is leather.

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  Best car under 25k - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Ft41 - November 4 - 2:00 am

  Car is good and fast it is really quick besides my mercades this is the fastest car I own

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  Fisrt car i buy, and im very happy with it!!! - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By alepodj - November 3 - 7:13 am

  Coming from an airplane size and noise gift car(1999 Chevrolet Malibu) this is an amazing car,,, i have no comparison with other same type vehicles, but i have no reason to think about changing so far,,, Drawbacks: back seats space, and driver seat when used as a recliner kills your back Cool Stuff: all the features, bluetooth, cruise, sunroof, etc(bluetooth lady is awesome and very funny, somewhat anoying too hehehe) the looks i love it, i putted a 18" rims is beautiful what can i say,,,is worth it,,, sure it is

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  Worth The Wait - 2014 Mazda Mazda3
  By dudeimthirsty - November 3 - 1:26 am

  Handsome. Fun. Tech. 3 words that sum up my new 3. I have had it for a week and the new car emotion hasnt subsided. The car simply looks good. It looks good at all angles. I have a snowflake pearl paint that looks good in the sun and somehow doesnt hide the nice lines of the fender across the body. I am your average commuter that doesnt necessarily have the luxury of a twisty commute but it is quite fun to steer the car. It gives me a good feel of the road. The infotainment center is awesome. Its pretty quick to pair your phone through BT or USB. There isnt a lag time at all when connecting. The commander control has a good feel. I find myself using it than steering controls.

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  Too soon to know - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Danielloveshis3 - October 28 - 10:16 pm

  I love this car, but I havent had it long enough to know how reliable its going to be. The seats are great, and its big on the inside. The speakers are good for stock. The only problem I have with it is that the paint seems like its very thin. I already have 2 chips on the hood, and 2 scratches on the passenger door. Its black and I guess thats to be expected, I had a charcoal grey car before and it didnt seem to scratch this easily.