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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  Amazing Buy - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By jslnlb - December 3 - 2:00 am

  I bought the M3i to replace a 96 Honda Accord EX. Its faster, more frugal, and handles better than the Accord, for $4K less than what I paid for the Accord in 96. Its quiet and solid though not as smooth as the Accord. It has many more features than the Accord had, including side curtain airbags, 6- disc CD changer, Tilt/telescoping wheel, steering wheel mounted radio controls. I test drove other compact cars before purchasing the M3i. I believe the M3i is the best in its class.

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  ZOOOOOOM ZOOOOOOOM!!!! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Italy3344 - December 3 - 2:00 am

  Let me just say.... I saw this car a while back in the car magazines and I really wanted one.... Just recently my old car 2001 PT Cruiser!! FELL APART! (FYI: Chryslers SUCK!!) So I had the chance to test drive the car and automatically fell in love with it! Great Car, Great Dive, looks much more expensive than what it is!!! MAZDA DID A GREAT JOB!!!!

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  About Time - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By doubleO - December 3 - 2:00 am

  I have been looking for a vehicle for 6 months. Late last year I saw a picture of the Mazda 3. I waited, and it was worth the wait. I am a previous civic owner. The 3 had a lot to live up to. It has so far. I have only had the car for a week, but I cannot express the positive reaction I have. If you are looking for a car that has the looks, feel, and personality this is it. You feel comfort and style in a simple but very effective car. It seems that is was designed to fit someone in a real world.

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  Good Review - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By daydreema1 - December 3 - 2:00 am

  The Mazda 3 is fun to drive. I loved it 100 times more after I bought it.

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  Talk about bang for the buck! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By happyinthesw - November 29 - 10:00 am

  I originally started looking at only the "s" series, but they were in such short supply (especially the sedan model which I prefer) I eventually wondered over to the little brother version, the "I". Now I test drove both cars extensivley and the 12hp difference in the engines is truly not that noticable on the manual transmission models. The automatics did feel a bit less powerful (a very small bit). The back seats are not comfortable unless your about 52" or less, but the front seats are great for a big guy like me. You will really appreciate the amount of adjustments that are possible on the cars driver side!

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  04 Mazda 3s wagon - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Stavro - November 29 - 12:53 am

  Test drove the new Civic but even though you get a better gas mileage, you have to run the VTEC motor 5-6K RPM to get the power out of it. I am impressed with the amount of space and the reliability (have a BMW X5 4.4 SUV with 11 pages full of service records). The side trim on the door is plastic, and it seems that the air conditioner could use a little "boost" (It seems that recycled air blows just a tad stronger than outside air). It is quiet, the sound is adequate, 6 CD upfront is nice to have, the gearbox is sweet, AUTO/Manual gets the best of both worlds, a 5th gear would have been nice. Performance is good; remember, its not a race car...turns tight and the fuel economy - I am getting 23 mpg city.

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  Great Car for the money - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By greg cain - November 28 - 11:33 pm

  This car is a blast to drive even after owning it for 6 months. It has almost all the features you would expect in a luxury car and has the performance to go a long with its good looks. The gas milage isnt what is advertised but then again none of the cars are. However, the transmition and engine work in harmony and I would sacrifice a little milage for the overall performance.

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  Econo Box be gone! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By TSK - November 28 - 6:16 am

  In outside sales, I drive a lot. Had a truck, but 15MPG was getting old. The Mazda 3 is a "must see" if you are looking for an econo-box driving expense crossed with a compact euro-luxo feel. At one time I sold BMW and while they are wonderful automobiles, the Mazda gives the BMW 3-series a run for the money. The Mazda 3 is worth EVERY penny when compared to a BMW. Suggestion, buy the Mazda 3 and buy a BMW emblem. Needless to say, I am very pleased.

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  Cant ask for more - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Spencer - November 25 - 9:26 pm

  I bought this car less than 1 yr ago after test driving 14 other cars. It was the last 2008 on the lot, and the only options are side airbags, 4 wheel abs, and A/C, so I got it for $13,000 OTD. Handling is superb, especially since I upgraded to 17" alloys with 215 tires over stock steel wheels with 195 tires. I consistently got 38 mpg driving carefully with about 85% hwy...got 42 only time I drove only hwy. Mileage seemed to go down to 33-34 mpg since wheel upgrade, but more verification needed. Acceleration is more than adequate, but youre not going to win too many drag races. Not crazy about clutch as it is a bit light and engagement point is difficult to find. Have not had any issues yet

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  Park it in the Winter - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By mike volsch - November 24 - 2:03 am

  I have enjoyed this car throughout the summer and fall months. Gas mileage is great, fit and finish are of good quality and it looks great. But I have found its downfall. Without a doubt this is the worst car I have ever driven in ice/snow. If a hill gets in your way you better better have up a good head of steam because if you dont you will be going backwards. A set of snow tires on it may help but without them this car goes to the garage until the sun shines and the grass is green.