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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Mazda 3s - 5-door hatch - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
By S. Savage - July 20 - 9:16 amGreat looking and driving car. 2.3 I-4 with variable valve timing is very versatile -- rev to 6000+ RPM on a beltway on-ramp or cruise in 5th gear at low speeds on level terrain. EPA estimate is 32 mpg highway. I have only achieved that rating once or twice (long distances at speeds under 60 mph). Rpm kills mpg. It needs a 6th gear. In 5th, it revs 3000 rpm at 70 mph and fuel mileage suffers (avg 28-29 mpg hwy). Otherwise, it is great fun to drive. It goes where you point it. 4-wheel disc brakes are outstanding. Oil is a pain to change, with an aero pan that needs to be removed for filter access and filters available only from Mazda. 17" 50 series Goodyear RS-As are NOT snow tires.
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Love the Mazda 3 Hatchback - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
By Julia Evins - July 19 - 10:00 amThis car is great, GREAT, fun to drive, reasonably priced and far more car than youd expect in the price range. Oh, it looks great too. I test drove several Toyotas, the Volkswagen Jetta, the Mini Cooper and the Mazda 3 hatchback was my choice without question. The ride was more responsive, yet smoother, than the Toyota Corolla, Prius and Rav 4. It drives with just as much fun as the Mini Cooper but I felt less jolted by the road than the Mini--cabin noise was less pronounced too. The Jetta came closest but was at least $2000 more with a history of more repair costs. Terrific car. No regrets.
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Love it - Love it - Love it - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
By NewToMazda - July 18 - 2:46 amI like my new Mazda, Im new to their line of vehicles and was thoroughly surprised at all you get with this rather inexpensive vehicle -- it reminds me of a BMW 3 series. Overall its quick, nimble and really shines when it comes to acceleration on the highway. Im glad I ditched my SUV for this vehicle.
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Snaab returns to the islands - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
By Yoshi - July 15 - 7:23 am13.5 years with Samantha, Sam, my manual 5 Saab, left me looking for slick escapes from daring edgework, tires squealing but suspension reliable and hugging seats. Got em in the Mazda3: tightest turning at speed, Im still discovering wide slow sweet sweeps; bodys external angles impress, as internal fits tightly to my average sized frame. I love gloving my lats, glutes and knees into the sculpted drivers pit, then telescoping out and laying steering wheel in my lap. But, 3,333 miles in my hands, I prefer my Saabs H handles. Named "Bluey, because its SO blue!" by my 7 y/o, the Mazda3 performance out-classes the clumsier Mazda6, impresses with pickup, quiet, and rail-like free-wheeling.
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Dont Buy ANYTHING Else... - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
By Casey Finley - July 14 - 6:13 amIf this is the price range that you want to be in, this is your car. Actually, dont spend any more money. This car is awesome.
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I Love My Car! - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
By SarahF - July 12 - 6:00 pmI have had my Mazda 3 for about a year and a half now, and love it! It is very responsive and fun to drive. Driving it feels "sporty", unlike other cars I test drove (the Nissan Sentra for example). I also felt like it had more interior room and better visibility than the Civic. It would be nice if the fuel economy was a little better, however, I still usually get about 28 miles to the gallon (suburban driving), and on road trips it averages about 31.
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nice car overall - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
By daphkn - July 11 - 12:16 pmI have owned this vehicle now just short of 3 years and it has 27k miles. Overall it is a fine car. Peppy,responsive, and fun to drive. My wife wanted the automatic so that is what we got. The manumatic is a bit lame when it comes to shifting but it still provides some fun factor. Mileage has been pretty good, right around the ratings. All in all it meets my expectations. The negatives that have come to light are the following. The oem tires are awful for wear and handling on wet pavement. These will need to be replaced soon at $550 to $800 for the lot. I was disappointed to read in the manual that snow chains could not be used on models with alloy wheels. Vehicle is not good in snow.
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What a Bargain! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
By Steve L - July 8 - 6:40 pmAfter doing some research on the Mazda3 and owning a 92 Miata, I found this vehicle with automatic, CD, and air for only $11,985 (lost leader advertisement). Took a test drive and was amazed at the handling and the pick up. Bought the car and have not looked back. The car operates like a fine watch and easily gets through the worst traffic with ease. The seats are comfortable for a tall person. The handling at high speed is excellence, with precision. In fact, this car operates extremely well at speeds well above 70 MPH, so beware. This is truely a fun car to drive. Be aware that this is more like a sports car, so do not expect the soft and quiet handling of a vanilla econo sedan.
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Long Trips, Varied Conditions - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
By Marc Rodgers - June 30 - 4:36 amFollow up to my 8/26/08 posting. Just took the car from MI on a trip to Grand Tetons, Jackson Hole and Yellowstone. Back to MI, then over to Ontario and around Georgian Bay. Put on 4800 miles in 12 days through varied terrain. Got 31.6 mpg for the overall trip, car ran great, handled well and was very comfortable. Power is adequate 90% of the time. Cruised very well at the 75mph (maybe just a bit over)speed limit in WY and SD. The fully reclining & heated passenger seat is great for rest area naps. Bose stereo is very good. Strong crosswinds in SD (from Ike) could certainly be felt, but not too bad. Very good visibility.
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Follow up review - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
By kevivoe - June 29 - 6:10 pm1st tank was 23 MPG. Our 2nd tank was 26.6 MPG. Our third is looking like 25 MPG. I would have to say so far this car is not quite meeting expected 25/31 MPG but it still has some more miles to go before break in.
