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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  This car has soul! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By BadgerPat - May 1 - 10:33 pm

  Mazda is the under appreciated Japanese brand, but they are the most fun to drive. I needed a commuting car and chose this as a nice balance between completely boring fuel economy and something that I would like to drive since I spend about 2 hrs and 20 min in it every workday. It is very reliable and you wont be disappointed if you buy one used. I am giving mine up to my 16 yr-old daughter and feel comfortable with her driving it.

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  New Model, New Problems - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By charlie2004 - April 30 - 10:00 am

  Pros: Turns great, decent mileage, comfortable (front seats), looks really nice, roomy trunk space, and better than average performance. Cons: Lights keep coming on in front panel, no parts available for this car-- cracked windshield could only be replaced at dealership with original part costing $$$$, one tire blew and the tire can only be changed at dealership (no place has it but factory), to sit comfortable in the front leaves very little space for back seats, very tight ride--not so smooth, and last.. the horn is horrible.

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  Fun to drive, good on gas - 2014 Mazda Mazda3
  By sunnyvegas - April 29 - 10:00 pm

  Fun to drive. Good on gas mileage. Not quite what it says for combo driving. Get average 30 with mostly hwy. Took a long trip with no heat/little AC and got 40/41. (Using the heat/seat warmers will lower the MPG quite a bit if the "average this drive" mpgs is accurate) Paid quite a bit more for Navigation (which I didnt really want) and heated seats & they still cant fix the tech package even after update. Majority of time I cant use the touchscreen. And although seats still heat, they are not working like they were at first. I purchased it in Dec, and so far no problems engine wise. So if this car is reliable long-term, I will still be happy.

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  Zoom-Zoom A+ - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Bibby - April 27 - 5:50 pm

  I have owned 8 new cars including a BMW, Acura, Jeep, and a few GMs. My Mazda 3 has been my favorite car and the best value by far. To date I have over 100,000 miles and have replaced only the front brakes, windshield wipers, and one set of tires. I cant say enough good about this car it still as tight and rattle free as the day I bought it. I recently loaned it to a friend and they were amazed at how quiet it still rides and what a solid car it is. I have consistently gotten 32 MPG in mixed driving.

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  Best Bang For Your Buck! - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jaimie - April 27 - 4:50 am

  I purchased this vehicle brand new - 100miles of test driving. I fell in love with it the second I saw it and knew this car belonged to me the first time I drove it. It was a step down from the top line model, and it has been a great car. I keep up to date with the maintenance and it is pretty decent with gas averaging around 28-30mpg. It is always peppy and handles great. Not to add, the thing is a tank and really well built. I hit a truck drive shaft on the highway at 70mph and had no undercarriage damage - only a popped tire. Overall, the car has been great. I just hit 60k and thus far hes still trucking along. For a small car it definitely holds up. I am for sure a Mazda customer.

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  I went from a 01 Miata to this... - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Dave - April 22 - 8:20 pm

  I love Mazda vehicles to begin with. They are one of the few car manufacturers that actually build 99% of their cars in Japan. The quality shows. I was very skeptical about a 4cyl. engine with an automactic. The 2.3L with the 5 speed auto is an absolute blast to drive. The 6 speed Miata was a blast to drive, but try commuting 70+ miles a day in LAs freeway traffic. The fit and finish is s good as any BMW 3 series, and the performance will make you wonder why you need to spend an extra 15K on a Bimmer. I have owned them as well. First thing I did after I had 1500 miles was change the oil to Royal Purple, K&N oil filter and K&N air filter. I know the car doesnt need this.

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  Very Happy with my Mazda3 - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By earlthom - April 22 - 1:03 pm

  After 2 months I have no regrets about my decision to purchase the Mazda3. I have the 3i Touring with automatic. Gas is around 27-30 MPG for mainly city driving. Comfort, sound, fun...all there!

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  Some Car Award Givers missed it entirely - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Mazda3s wins - April 20 - 10:50 am

  Before buying this vehicle, researched cars for 4 months. There werent any true sports sedans I could afford. This is one. In two years, the car has been on numerous long trips with some around town driving. Performance is extraordinary and comfort way above average for this price class. My only complaint is some road noise; however this was cured with Ziebart sound deadener and some more carpet in the trunk. After two years of "test drive", it wins on all accounts. It looks like Mazda has fixed some of my suggestions for 06.

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  Great Car - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Yoscience32 - April 20 - 8:36 am

  This is a great vehicle. I got the s grand touring manual; it picks up very rapidly, although the shifter seems rubbery. In addition, the interior is flawless, as well as the exterior. The materials used inside are of good quality and the seats are comfortable. I have only had the car for three weeks, so I cannot speak of reliability. Fuel economy is not great. The leather is nice as well as the Bose stereo. The rims are great looking. I got the black exterior with black interior. I have received many thumbs up from strangers. I recommend this car to anyone looking for a fun and safe economy car.

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  Zoom zoom indeed - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Ev - April 13 - 8:23 am

  We were ready to buy a dowdy subcompact before driving the Mazda3. After the drive, there was no question. This car is a well styled road rocket and instantly changed our top priority from mpg to fun. After a couple fill-ups Im averaging a respectable 28 mpg, a bit less than Id been in the market for, but enough to stay true to the spirit of an affordable, reliable, low total-cost-of-ownership purchase. Its more than large enough for everyday driving for our family of 4. And, again, the performance is just awesome -- quick, nimble, and amazingly grippy. Bottom line: try it, youll like it.