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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  Great car in this price range - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Ben Powers - August 24 - 4:33 am

  For the money, I dont think you can do any better in this price range. I test drove many vehicles, but none have the sporty feel and build quality in a sensible 4 door sedan. I remember the Nissan advertising gimmick, 4DSC (4-Door Sports Car), and I think this is a much better example. Even parked next to the RX-8, it looks great. MUCH nicer interior. Check out the Consumer Reports review - its in its 3rd model year, and it has a great track record with 41 mpg as tested by CR. After all my test drives, the only other car I considered in this same price range was the Scion Tc - but the 3 was still the clear winner!

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  Gets better N better - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By diehard080 - August 20 - 2:06 pm

  Yes its been 2 years since my 2010 was purchased as I traded my 2008 . This car has not failed to continue keeping me looking forward to my next drive . Its broken in properly as I polled the white tape off the paint myself with 2 miles on the odometer. I see people that have cars they complain about and usuall with a car this solid built 100% in Japan there 1 of 2 things going on here . #1 they work for Toyota or Honda and hate Mazdas becuase they rock the socks off those granny mobiles or you bought a Mazda with 10-15 demos thats been hammered into hell by the salespeople and non-buyers that just want to floof a new car and ruin the engine by doing so .These are top notch rides

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  Love this car but beware - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By djshame - August 20 - 3:19 am

  I have had this car since it had 6 miles on it. The only issues i had in the begining was a belt that broke and ignition coils. This car is very fun to drive. However be aware that after 100k the engine starts to burn oil. I wasnt aware of this and didnt feel the need to check my oil on the regular. Hence i now need a new motor. Just a word of advice check your oil levels regularly at least once a week when you go over 100k in miles. Enjoy zoomzoom. Hence i bought a 2013 MSP3. love my Mazdas....

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  best econo car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Kris - August 19 - 7:03 pm

  I love this car. I also looked at the Civic and Corolla, but they were bland compared to the 3. The interior is of good quality, not something you would normally find in an economy car. Good pricing for the amount of features.

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  Great inexpensive car - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
  By Phil K. - August 19 - 4:06 am

  If you are looking for an inexpensive car with lots of features for your money, then this is the car for you. Handling is good, but you have to watch it in the snow belt when the rear end would like to trade places with the front on snowy roads due to its light weight. Acceleration is adequate with the 2.0 engine. There is plenty of leg room up front for 6ft. tall drivers. Trunk space for a car this size is good. Fit and finish is exceptionally good.

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  I LOVE my new Mazda3! - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jaylee - August 18 - 8:50 pm

  I cannot convey how much I LOVE this car. I bought it in Velocity Red with dual heated leather seats, 6 disc in dash cd player, bluetooth capability, you name it....and all for under $23000! I love this better than my 2003 Honda Civic EX coupe, which was a manual transmission. Too much stopping and starting to get the manual where I live, but I dont care. Smooth ride, every option is easily accessible to the driver. Gets much better MPGs than my Pacifica AWD, so Im happy! Fun and sporty, what more could you ask for??

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  Nice Flash - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Fred - August 17 - 8:36 pm

  I got a great deal on a loss leader and got the vehicle at below dealer cost which set the pace for an excellent buying experience. The car is only a few months old but has better interior styling, pickup and features package than my Corolla.

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  2nd Time Around - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Bill - August 16 - 11:40 pm

  This is our 2nd Mazda. We owned a 03 Protege 5 prior to buying our 05 Mazda 3. Overall the 03 seemed more solid, however the 05 features, options and power make up for it. Loaded the 05 up and enjoy all the options. Would have bought the yellow over the white, but it was not as nice as the yellow on our 03.

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  upset - 2014 Mazda Mazda3
  By nosake - August 16 - 9:26 am

  When I first saw this Mazda 3 in red on the dealership lot, I knew Id own it. My first Mazda. I had been looking for an affordable, efficient car for about two years.

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  Michael Gilchrist - 2013 Mazda Mazda3
  By gilxunlimited - August 14 - 12:46 pm

  Great no complaints