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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  Good Value - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By 10mazda3 - October 25 - 2:00 am

  Overall a good value, Great styling and sporty, just hate the road noise, keep the radio up loud. very noisy on uneven pavement. Suspension on bumps is horrible. Would rather have bought German, vw or bmw, this car very light and tinny. Paint quality not great, chips easy. Had an 08 sedan, salesman told me it would be quieter? oh well, will have to live with it for a few years.Yes, there are many features that you will love. If they put in more insulation and better suspension they will have a superior product.

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  Awesome Ride - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By George - October 25 - 2:00 am

  Well I travel to downtown Chicago everyday so I needed a commuter car, Im 6 ft and 220 lbs so I wasnt too sure about this small car but so far so good. I love rap/hiphop so a good sound system was a must and this system BUMPS, its not the same as having subwoofers in the car but its really loud anyway I love pluggin my ipod into the car and listening to my playlists. The car is awesome on the expressway the acceleration is totally responsive and fast. One more thing, dont be put off by the look of the front of the car all the pics look weird but seeing it in person is completely different, this car is a good looking car!

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  All Around Winner - 2011 Mazda Mazda3
  By ClausS - October 25 - 2:00 am

  To the person that wants rims and not hubcaps--buy ANY trim level except the very cheapest and you have alloys? Thats a no brainer - The 2011 is near exactly the same as the 10 but the rear headrests tilt and they added a Moonroof/Bose pac as standard on all GT trims so the only upgrade it the tech which they toyed with by trading the aforementioned for the Xenons, Leds and rain sense wipers + auto headlight. Also switched to Synthetic 0W-20 oil! good move! Great car others pale, a honda fit? please 15" rims -zzz , I love the design as its grown on me and quite frankly Im sick of insecure people that need mean looking cars , the smile is great! as is the car!

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  Zoom! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By lonagarr - October 21 - 10:23 pm

  I love mine! It handles so sweetly, and the sporty feel is unbelievable for a compact...which it doesnt really feel like at all. Strong, fast, tight...who could as for more?

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  Best Buy For The Money - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By peaceman - October 21 - 2:00 am

  Fast, fun, and cheap!! Mazda came out with a great compact that feels like a sports car. The 3i engine with 148hp is fast enough and you can upgrade to an 3s with 160hp for an affordable price. The features and design is great. The dash has an awesome design. The sound system is good too.

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  Mazda 3 - Nice Ride - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By 3runner - October 21 - 2:00 am

  I compared features and drove every competing car including the Civic SI, Sentra SE Spec V, & Matrix. The 3 beat these going away. Its the total package of acceleration, handling, and good looks! Theres many other little niceties that are also pluses for this car. Theres not a better vehicle for <20K, Im sure.

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  Ticket Getter - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Need 4 Speed - October 21 - 2:00 am

  Purhased after reading reviews. Being a "motorhead", I had a pretty good idea what was out there, and without the bump to 160-horses, I probably wouldnt have considered the 3. Also drove left over Proteges, which has entirely different feel. Whereas the Protege is flingable, the 3 feels more substantial. Bought for less than $500 over dealers invoice. The January issue of Car & Driver magazine provides a good review on this model. More comparable to the discontinued Prelude than the Civic or Matrix in its class and pulls as hard a a 330 Bimmer 0-60.

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  Mazda3 Review - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By pmoney - October 18 - 10:36 am

  The manual car is fun to drive. Sometimes changing the gear is not smooth. The fuel economy is not so great but you forget about it once you start driving the car. The interior design is better than Civic and Corolla in my opinion. The price is reasonable compared to a Civic.

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  Sweet car for the class - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By motonole - October 17 - 10:00 am

  Right off the lot it has impressed. Its still new, but the fit and finish is excellent. Also, see favorite features.

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  Mazda 3 is the top of the 3 - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By ETM3 - October 17 - 10:00 am

  Hey Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla can you read the number 3 from the back of my car? I have two weeks with my Mazda 3 and I love it. I am so glad I chose this car instead of the other two competitors. Its faster, more stylish and has a longer warranty.