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 301 through 310 of 322.00

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  Zoom-Zoom 3 - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Tom - October 1 - 5:56 am

  I love this car! My 3 is the best car I have ever owned. I get looks almost everywhere I go. Everyone loves this car, Cant say I blame them because I love it too. I would not trade this car for anything - its one in a million.

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  Unhappy with my zoom-zoom - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By cherie - September 23 - 2:10 am

  I have had a very bad experience with my vehicle. I am only getting about 14- 18 miles per gallon ( supposed to be in the 24-36 range). I was given the run around and basically told that there was no problem with my vehicle.

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  I LOVE IT - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By erika_8045 - September 18 - 1:00 am

  I just bought this car 3 days ago and I am falling more and more in love with it every day. Its fun to drive has tons of space seating and trunk and I love the sleek body style. Its an awesome buy and I am a proud and very happy owner!

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  Great car in this price range - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Ben Powers - August 24 - 4:33 am

  For the money, I dont think you can do any better in this price range. I test drove many vehicles, but none have the sporty feel and build quality in a sensible 4 door sedan. I remember the Nissan advertising gimmick, 4DSC (4-Door Sports Car), and I think this is a much better example. Even parked next to the RX-8, it looks great. MUCH nicer interior. Check out the Consumer Reports review - its in its 3rd model year, and it has a great track record with 41 mpg as tested by CR. After all my test drives, the only other car I considered in this same price range was the Scion Tc - but the 3 was still the clear winner!

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  best econo car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Kris - August 19 - 7:03 pm

  I love this car. I also looked at the Civic and Corolla, but they were bland compared to the 3. The interior is of good quality, not something you would normally find in an economy car. Good pricing for the amount of features.

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  Tough choice, but went with the Mazda - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jerchri - August 9 - 5:23 pm

  Mazda vs. Honda. Mazda won. Great European inspired design, comfortable interior, peppy engine, appears to be solidly built, and pretty smooth ride for this type of car. Nice little surprises like a radio that finds the stations with the strongest signals and programs them into a separate location. Great for when youre in unfamiliar territory. Wish it had better gas mileage (only 35 highway compared to the Civics 40) and I wish ABS/SAB/SAC were standard (ended up getting the package...well worth it). Jurys still out on its reliability, I suppose. Hope it lasts for decades, otherwise Ill be upset that I didnt go with the Honda. Tough for Honda to beat the overall package.

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  A Best Kept Secret - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Thrilled - August 8 - 4:00 am

  It has been 3 years, and it is one of the best decisions I ever made.Who would have thought that an inexpensive grocery-getter (which is why I bought it) would handle like a $30K-$40K car? It does not perform like a high end performance car because it is not supposed to. The 2.0 liter 4-banger is loads of fun because I can keep my foot in it if I want to play. For my normal commute I average 29-33 mpg mixed driving. on the Freeway, its around 37 mpg. But the HANDLING!!! OMG! This has got to be one of the best-kept secrets in America! Would I like more power? Sure, but not at the cost of mpg. The fit and finish on this little gem is excellent. And for $18K out the door! Im a happy camper.

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  Love it - Love it - Love it - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By NewToMazda - July 18 - 2:46 am

  I like my new Mazda, Im new to their line of vehicles and was thoroughly surprised at all you get with this rather inexpensive vehicle -- it reminds me of a BMW 3 series. Overall its quick, nimble and really shines when it comes to acceleration on the highway. Im glad I ditched my SUV for this vehicle.

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  Dont Buy ANYTHING Else... - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Casey Finley - July 14 - 6:13 am

  If this is the price range that you want to be in, this is your car. Actually, dont spend any more money. This car is awesome.

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  Follow up review - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By kevivoe - June 29 - 6:10 pm

  1st tank was 23 MPG. Our 2nd tank was 26.6 MPG. Our third is looking like 25 MPG. I would have to say so far this car is not quite meeting expected 25/31 MPG but it still has some more miles to go before break in.