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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  Best car I ever owned - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By trf10412 - February 27 - 9:03 pm

  By far this is the best quality car that I have ever owned. I had a 2005 Mazda 3s and I loved it. Just traded that for a 2008 Mazda3 Grand Touring 5 door. This one is even better that the my first one. The standard equipment is incredible.

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  Nice Car - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jamaica Joe - February 27 - 1:10 am

  I bought this car to replace a 1997 Mitsibishi Eclipse. It is a nice car, I bought it for the looks based on the price. Its pearl white and the paint looks really good. Its a manual and it is pretty fun to drive. Not all that comfortable as I am 62" and its awkward because of the lack of tilt/telescoping action. The car has 16200 miles on it with no problems.

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  Very happy with my car - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By JONWELDON59 - February 22 - 1:36 pm

  I have had my car for one month an am very pleased and impressed with the performance and comfort. I almost purchased another Honda Civic, but am glad I went with the Mazda 3.

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  Love My Mazda 3! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Martha Ramsey - February 21 - 10:56 am

  This is my first Mazda, and it will not be my last! I love everything about the Mazda 3, from the sporty design, to the roominess Mazda has built into such a compact car, to the great sound system that includes an in-dash 6 CD player, to the huge trunk, to the excellent gas mileage. Im getting 38-39 mpg on standard, everyday trips to and from work. On long trips I have averaged 42-45 mpg! If you are looking for a sporty, fun-to-drive economy car that has a great sound system and gets great gas mileage, this is the car for you.

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  Great looks and good handling - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
  By Nadeem - February 20 - 4:40 am

  I just bought this car two weeks ago and have already put 600 miles on it. Its just so fun to drive. Even though I deprived myself of a manual transmission (it can be a pain on hills), the automatic transmission provides a fun acceleration. Very strongly built, I had someone bump into me (on the THIRD DAY of purchase!!) but thankfully not even a scratch on the rear bumper! The leather interior rivals my friends BMW 3 Series, and the Bose System is very powerful. However, plugging in both my iPod aux cable and power cable at the same time gives minor buzzing sound (probably something wrong my cable).

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  Compact....??? I say its a sport. - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Guto - February 16 - 2:00 am

  I’ve spent about 3 months looking for a compact. What I found? Good cars, reasonable prices, and a total lack of attention to the small segment of cars. Mazda certainly created another concept for compact cars. I bought an M 3i sedan with power package, ac, sport/auto transmission and it is worthy everything single penny I spent. It is incredible to drive; it has an amazing design (exterior and interior), and an engine that needs no comments. The car is unquestionably the best in its segment

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  Solid - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By S - February 14 - 9:46 pm

  After only 500 miles, Im sold. Fun to drive, lots of Zoom Zoom, steering/handling is precise. Ample power (way more than my 02 Subaru Outback). Just took a road trip over the mountains to Eastern Washington and it was a champ. Oh, and averaged 31.4 mpg my first trip, cruising at about 70. Good stuff.

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  Zoom....Zoom....Zoom..... - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Darcy - February 13 - 1:36 am

  This is a fun, safe car that really zips. Easy to drive and handle. Excellent gas mileage.

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  Truly making it fun to drive again! - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Proud Mazda Owner - February 10 - 1:20 pm

  I have to start this review by saying that this car is just plain fun to drive! It will make your morning commute a happy time. The interior is very nice and refined. The lighting on the gauges is, simply put, very cool. For the price of the car it is amazing what you get inside and out. The bluetooth, steering wheel mounted controls, & sound system are a luxury. Above all, the engine rocks! Put your foot to the pedal and you will not believe it is a 4 cyl. Restrain yourself or let it go, it is your choice. It hops off the line and is agile, sporty, and feels like a V6. During my test drive when I hit the gas, I actually said, "thats what Im talkin bout". Oh yes, Daddy like!

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  Awesome Mazdas. Can you say ZOOM ZOOM?? - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By STALLIONRE - February 10 - 5:33 am

  When I first saw this car for the price, I said NO WAY!! How can Mazda sell a car that is 100% made in Japan with all these options for this low price? This car rates like a higher end car with all these options and heated seats!!! I am blown away of what you get for the price. A car like this in this class would be over $28,000. I test drove this car twice and totally fell in love with it. My wife even loves the colors (instrumental panel) at night. I agree this car beats most. I bought the Mazda3 S Grand Touring fully loaded. Awesome!! I got all the options that were avaliable. I would highly recommend adding the cool air intake unit, the front mask, wheel locks, cargo mat, seat covers, front and rear dash covers, all weather carpet mats, rear lip spoiler, and of course the Bose 6 CD changer that is built into the dash. Just simply awesome!!