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 291 through 300 of 322.00

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  Great Car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Dan - February 6 - 1:40 am

  Although Ive only put less than 500 miles on my car, it has exceeded my expectations. The handling is superb, braking is excellent, and acceleration (4 speed auto, 2.0 145hp) is not rocket-like, but I can enter California freeways above freeway speeds with power to spare. Interior and exterior details make it look like its much more expensive then it really is. So far so good. Good Job Mazda!

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  I was hooked on Toyotas ... not anymore - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Nicole - February 1 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned the Mazda3 hatch (in the attention commanding Winning Blue, of course) for 6 months and I am VERY impressed. Ive never considered vehicles outside of Toyota or Honda and am so glad I took the leap. Ive never had better handling. I saw this car on the road and HAD to have it. I spent just a little extra to get the moonroof/6 cd package, rear bumper step plate, moonroof wind deflector, cargo tray, cassette player, and autodim mirror. Coming in at exactly $20k, every option was well worth it and, since I purchased them with the vehicle, they are warrantied for 50k miles too. Only thing to add now is the $700 Phatnoise MP3 system. Mazda is smooth to offer this voice activated system.

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  Awesome - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By John99999999 - January 20 - 6:13 am

  Love it. So much fun to drive. Now just wish there was no speed limits. Handles well in turns, nice ride. For sure the best compact/sedan out there in its class.

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  So Far So Good - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Matt - January 8 - 4:16 pm

  The exterior look of the car is about average for an economy car. I think its a tad nicer looking than the civic and corolla. I test drove all three, and walked away with Mazda as the clear front runner. I would imagine that a Civic will typically be more reliable way down the road than the 3, but we will find out. The 3 feels sturdy (corolla did not) and it has more get-go than the civic had. I was in a car accident(vs a Trailer truck) last winter and the car appears to have recovered nicely and Im alive to talk about it. If you are looking for an economy car, give the 3 a shot.

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  Much sharper than my Civic - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Michdee - December 27 - 5:23 am

  I just bought this car and gave my 01 Civic to my teenage sons. I have the fully loaded version with automatic transmission, leather seats, moon-roof etc. Drive is very smooth and has great pick-up for a four cylinder. Looks very sharp. I really wanted a small car with heated leather seats and it is very hard to find unless you want to step up to a luxury car in the $35K plus range. Surprisingly the gas mileage is not good. I get about 19 MPG (mostly city driving - I average 17 MPH). I was hoping for a little better than that. Car looks more expensive but everyone knows how much it costs so that doesnt mean much.

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  I No Longer Desire An Audi - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Velma - December 26 - 8:36 am

  I researched and researched this car and decided to get it. Its awesome in everyway, and Ive had no problems with it. My dream car is the Audi A3...but now I dont know. Im very happy with this car in everyway. I drove from NC to Toronto, Ontario and had the best drive.

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  excellent vehicle - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By steve - December 14 - 3:06 am

  This is a fun car to drive and it the quality of build is high. It is priced to beat the overly popular Civic.

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  Wow! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Boston - November 25 - 1:10 pm

  This car sets the value bar at a new level. Think Honda value with Acura performance. Drove an SUV since 1998, and have not looked back at all. This car excels at everything. Handling, acceleration, slick 5-speed, amazing build quality. You could easily change the Mazda logo to BMW, Acura or Lexus and people would believe. First tank of gas delivered 29.6 mpg in mixed! Strongly recommended.

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  Just got one - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By rjacrossla - October 21 - 12:53 pm

  I fell in love at first sight. Committed after one test drive. I was waiting for VW to roll out 4-door GTI (heard rumors/got kids/they sell em in Europe). Couldnt wait. My 100 mile a day commute across L.A. killed my old car. This is the first full week of commuting in the car and I love it. The ride is solid, the car corners nice and flat, and the gas mileage is pretty good. The car is so fun to drive, Im leaving for work at 5 am so I can take her up to speeds faster that 10mph. My wife even likes the car (hated the GTI). I would recommend to any one looking for value and fun.

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  luxury finnaly at a reasonably price - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By machr85 - October 20 - 1:43 am

  Very impressed with this car, my friend had the mazdaspeed3 and I drove it one time and thats what got me into it, I couldnt afford the speed3 but got a 06 hatchback gt, I must say the interior has nothin to envy thus of a Lexus. Performance is great ride is great, only thing Im waiting is for repairs hoping since is a Japanese car it might be expensive.