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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  Totally Impressed - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Mike Crowley - August 4 - 2:00 am

  The best shifting and well made compact car Ive ever owned. If you are looking for a compact car dont waste your time looking at the Matrix or Honda SI. take this car for a test drive and if you dont like it your nuts.

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  The New Benchmark - M3s - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By DuneII - August 4 - 2:00 am

  I compared the Mazda 3s to the Civic, Matrix, Vibe, and a used Saab. The price is very competitive. The options are not bad either. Handling is amazing. Interior is unique. As all the ads say, the M-3s sets a new standard. Im so glad I waited and didnt buy the Civic or Matrix. Milage is 26 miles/gal. Features that luxury cars have as options are standard or available: Transmission with a semi- manual auto mode. Huge disc brakes with Brake Assist (a copy of the Mercedess version). Side, head, front air bags with driver postion sensor. Integrated interior where everying comes together.

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  Been Waiting For This... - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Kennyrod - August 4 - 2:00 am

  I fell in love with the M3 the moment I saw it. Picked it up yesterday and am having a wonderful time so far. Its got zip and style. I think the mileage could be a bit better, but it aint that bad. I also think the music system could be better too.

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  Great Car with Little Disappointment! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Andrew - August 1 - 4:06 am

  This was my first new car. I wasnt out for a foreign ride but found it to offer the most bang for the buck. The leather and DVD navigation are "must haves." I get many compliments on this car; two people mistook my car for a BMW. It has class, sportiness, and is very fun to drive. The quality is also spectacular for the price. A few quirks: poor gas mileage for the performance and 4-cylinder. Optional 17" wheels equals bouncier ride & poor winter performance. Also, the interior lights (3) must be turned on individually to light cabin. Great options, stereo, and quality for the cost. No regrets!

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  Best in class! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Henryli - July 31 - 10:00 am

  Fun to drive. Great 5M, Most sportier for an entry level compact sedan. reasonable fuel economy. great contemporary design. Good front ergo. many features (auto-manual trans, delay int. lights....)usually be found only on bigger or lux sedans. no cost compromised decontent.

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  Love My 3 - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Danny - July 30 - 5:00 pm

  Just picked up my Winning Blue 3 and I love it. I got it with The automatic tranny, Moonroof, 6 cd stereo, and the ABS-Airbag package.I paid 18,600 and thought it was a good deal. This car is loaded with standard extras that I couldnt get in other cars I looked at like the Vibe, Matrix, Corolla, and Civic. The tranny shifts sooooo smooth when it is in drive or if you use the manual shift that I have to look at the dash to see what gear Im in. Before I bought this car I did two months of research on this and the other cars I listed plus a few others and for the money, this is the car to have. Good pickup, Smooth tranny, Head-turning looks, great handling make this the car to have.

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  sweet! - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By CHANCHO - July 29 - 9:06 pm

  What a fun car to drive! The engine has great acceleration from about 3500 rpms to redline. Everything feels really tight and is designed really well.

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  LOVE my 3... - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Christy - July 27 - 12:20 pm

  I traded in my CX7 for the Mazda3 and love it! The 3 is fun to drive and is very sporty. I am surprised it doesnt get better gas mileage though considering its size. The fit and finish of the interior is surprisingly nice for the price. The exterior style is far more trendy than others in its class like the Sentra, Corolla, or Civic.

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  All The Good Stuff - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Fun to Drive - July 26 - 8:00 pm

  We were looking for a new vehicle with good gas mileage that uses regular fuel, has a best of class reliability and some personality! I believe the Mazda3 hits the mark. We have only had the car for about seven weeks. The factory radio had a problem with the volume (the bass would cut out at higher levels). Our dealership checked into a possible software glitch and replaced our radio with a brand new corrected unit. My radio works and sounds great now. This is our very first Mazda and we are looking forward to many happy problem free miles. Driving this car makes me smile. I love my little wagon! To all Mazda3 owners you choose a nice car! Zoom Zoom.

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  Great Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By happyboy - July 25 - 10:00 am

  A thrill to own and drive. Excellent road handling with sports package.