Overview & Reviews

For 2006, the Mazda 3 benefits from the addition of variable valve timing to the 2.0-liter engine and the availability of a five-speed automatic transmission on models with the 2.3-liter engine. Additionally, the 2.3-liter engine is now PZEV-certified in California, Maine, Massachusetts, New York and Vermont. Models with air conditioning get a pollen filter and outside temperature display on the center console. ABS and variable-intermittent front wipers become part of the standard features list for all 2.3-liter models. Also, a couple of new Touring trims are added to the lineup.

• Superbly refined suspension, steering and brakes, sharp styling inside and out, smooth engines, excellent build and materials quality, hatchback utility.

• Ride might be a tad stiff for some, tight rear legroom, so-so fuel economy with 2.3-liter engine.

User Reviews:

Showing 281 through 290 of 322.00

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  Zippy & Fun - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Melanie - June 2 - 5:30 am

  This vehicle is surprisingly peppy for a four cylinder. The handling and response are first rate. Automatic transaxle shifts smoothly. Very sharp looking car with a lot of thought put into the interior. Comfortable and user friendly instrumentation. Locking gas cap a big plus. Two trip odometers. Large trunk capacity. Tight turning radius. Would highly recommend to all!

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  I love my Mazda 3! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By earlthom - May 15 - 4:33 pm

  I compared the 3i with the Corolla and the Civic. The 3 had the quietest ride, best handling and was the roomiest of the choices. My only concern was gas mileage, but through the first 2 tanks Im at about 28 MPG with an auto for hurry-up and stop driving. Very comfortable interior with a pretty decent factory sound system.

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  Mazda3 S - touring. Still 2nd best - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By rogracin - April 27 - 12:49 pm

  Purchased our 2006 Mazda3 s - new. Went with the Touring package to get side curtain/seat airbags and sport tires/ rims. We have 77k miles now, While it is good car the quality is low. Carpet, seats, visor, rear view mirror, visors are all worn or broken. One major thing I hate is the oil filter placement. Had to replace the drivers window/lock cluster cause that stopped working. I do all my oil changes but to reach the filter you have to remove the underbody shield consisting of 5 bolts and numerous clips. This car replaced our 1988 MX6 we kept for 23 years. I did not have these problems until well after 150k on my MX6.

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  An excellent car thats fun to drive... - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By natas74 - April 17 - 10:16 am

  My 06 Mazda3 GT 5 door has almost 40k miles on it and its been a great car so far! I read the consumer reviews before purchasing and researched it well. I really enjoy driving this car, its very responsive and fun to drive. With all the features, I feel its an excellent value. When folding down the backseat, you get a good amount of cargo room. With the backseat up, you can comfortably seat 4-5 in the car. Overall, the car has a sporty look/handling, but is also a safe family car.

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  Snappy - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Martin - April 5 - 5:43 pm

  I bought the car because the 17mph I was getting was crazy at $3.50 a gal. I looked at Honda and Nissan, but the performance sold me, as well as the 4 yr., 50k warranty. It still surprises me everytime I put my foot into it. The car rockets to the 6500 redline, and there is a huge torque leap at about 3500. You have to watch your speed though because the car gives alot and can surprise you with its agility and handling. I do a 90-mile round trip about 6 times a month, and Im used to getting about 29 mpg, lead foot and all. Inside it has the feel of a small BMW and all the bells and whistles too. This is one fun "economy" car! Zoom, zoom.

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  Excellent Car at a great price - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By doru31 - March 27 - 12:43 pm

  Excellent handling and suspension. Good braking with all disk brakes. Power and torque is a little low; could use more power like 180hp and 180lbs. torque. Interior and exterior styling is great with good quality. I like the side turn indicators which many cars dont have. Fully loaded for $21K (sunroof, leather, xenon, heated seats, clear led tail lights, 17 inch rims, 6-CD BOSE). Great car at a great price. I highly recommend it.

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  Almost perfect - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Alberto - March 19 - 1:16 pm

  The 3 is an excellent blend of performance, economy, space, quality and style. On paper, comparisons to the Civic and Matrix seemed appropriate, but behind the wheel the 3 proved itself to have no peer in this price range. It seems more BMW 3 than Mazda 3, with the thoughtful blend of speed and comfort, the Teutonic feel of its controls and apertures, the wily blend of family-car and naughty-car. No, its not perfect. Some things, I suspect, may be blamed on the marketing department, e.g. gouging us on the cost of the navigation system and the MP3 player. And a few things might be blamed on the engineers, such as the small sunroof and the lack of a 6th gear. But overall, outstanding!

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  Interesting - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By i love this car - March 16 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car back in 2006 and the only real problem I have had is the tires.

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  I love it. - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Brian Parker - February 8 - 4:33 pm

  Purchased used w/21K miles, fell in love immediately. Worst fuel mileage 30, best 45 on a leisurely trip on state highways with 60 or lower speed limits. Key to good mileage is to not run the RPMs up in every gear, let the torque work for you. Before you get the impression I am a slow driver, I have had this well over the speed limits plenty of times, I love to let it go, but I also enjoy getting good mileage. Last trip to Florida got me 39mpg average between state highways and interstate up to 72mph. Almost 30K miles so the noisy OEM tires will be replaced with quieter good tires. Yes, a remote trunk opener would be great, but its still one of the better cars I have owned.

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  Looking Good - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By shippy1973 - February 6 - 7:23 pm

  Excellent handling and acceleration for a 2.3L. May be a tight fit for taller people. Really fun to drive. Way too much brake dust on rear wheels. Factory tires will be expensive to replace. Has 17" rims. A/C could be colder. Comes with almost every option most drivers want as standard. Love the steering wheel controls. Trunk space is adequate unless you shop for groceries once a month. As advertised gas mileage (approximately 27). Gas light comes on at about 2-3 gallons left. Love the interior panel lighting. Auto/Manual mode is cool to play with and you dont have to downshift when in manual mode. Rear leg room is sparse. Overall, I am very happy with my purchase 7 months in.