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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  No Complaints! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By krappster - July 17 - 10:00 am

  Used to have a BMW 328iS. This car drives smoother, shifts faster (thanks to the short throw), rides softer (while still having sporty handling), and even accelerates faster. Mazda really stepped up the interior materials. This car is the best deal out there. Nobody delivers a better overall package for the price. Ive been looking for the sporty car that has four doors and is baby-friendly!

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  Cooooooooool Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By brittany55555 - July 17 - 10:00 am

  Nice handling, nice ride. Definatley getting what you paid for. Cute, stylish, and comfortable and "zoom zoom"

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  Best compact around hands down - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Leo - July 16 - 1:53 pm

  There is no competition for this car in the compact market. We are a two Mazda family and I enjoy driving this car as much as I enjoy driving our RX8. The handling is absolutely superb, the brakes are fantastic and the engine is very peppy for a 4 cylinder. We got a fairly loaded example (leather, auto, moonroof, 6 CD) and love it to death. Just did our first long haul, San Jose to LA, to Vegas, to San Jose and enjoyed it very much. The car is very comfortable and smooth, great long distance cruiser. Best part was we were moving at a good pace and still averaged 26 mpg for the trip.

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  Great Little Car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By erin - July 13 - 8:33 pm

  I have had my mazda3 for about 2 years now, and have not really had any complaints. The original tires that came on it sucked in the rain and snow, but after putting new tires on it, have had no problems. I have put almost 40000 miles on it in over 2 years and do a lot of driving, and it definatly holds its own. I couldnt believe the pick-up that this little 4 cylinder car had! I definitely recommend these little cars to anyone who is looking.

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  Do not buy anything until you try a 3!!! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By boogy-boo - July 12 - 10:00 am

  We picked up a brand new 2.3, 4 door a couple of days ago. Everything is in it except for navigation. (I usually know where Im going.) The grey/black carbon fiber trim all over the interior looks awesome! Comfortable leather seating, front & back. Impresssive & quiet 4 cyl., and responsive handling. Everything inside and out on this car is solid. Great trunk room too. I can easily fit two sets of golf clubs in there and still have room. (really) The interior lighting on the dash and controls looks super cool. I do not understand how anyone could not like that set up! Dont buy until you check out a "3". You get a lot of car for your money.

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  Great little car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By brett65 - July 12 - 10:00 am

  Ive had the car for a little over a week so I cant really rate the reliability, but this is a great little car to drive. Looks awesome and rides even better. Mazda has a winner with the 3...Im zoomin.

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  Amazing Car! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By dancsontos - July 12 - 10:00 am

  Everything about this car is amazing. It drives like a BMW 3 series (believe me, I have driven one...) and the interior is very upscale. Thank you Mazda!

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  2010 Mazda 3 Hatchback 2.5 manual - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By tazbird - July 12 - 4:59 am

  No adjustments required by dealer from day one to present. 55,000 km and have only replaced the battery. Two trips from Ontario to Florida, and one trip to Virginia. Excellent value and fun to drive. My third Mazda.

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  My first Mazda - 2012 Mazda Mazda3
  By reillyj6 - July 10 - 3:21 am

  I purchased my 2012 Mazda iTouring a little over 2 months ago after selling my Acura tsx and I could not be happier. I am just about to his my 5,000 mile mark and so far it has been great!! I also am 63" and there is plenty of room for me in the drivers seat, but no one can sit behind me in the back. The car has plenty of "get-up-and-go" for getting on the highway. I have a family member who has a cx-9 that loves it and I test drove the three and I was set! One of my favorite cars Ive had!! Also, the SkyActiv technology came out the week after i bought the car so I do not have it, but I average 35 mpg anyways.

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  Really Diggin it! My 3 Rocks! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Mazda3Driver - July 9 - 1:30 am

  Ok, 1st, bad stuff ... power steering is noisy, tires appear to wear quickly, doesnt get the gas mileage claimed, (28.5 hwy on recent trip), the a/c doesnt get super cold (tint the glass, fixed!), the seat material gives off tangles as it wears. But as far as everything else, I love it! I had a Pathfinder that got 14mpg, even at 28mpg is saving me tons of cash. Its peppy, handles great, looks good, quiet enough interior and with a new stereo, its got good tunes too. The first owner had upgraded a few things, like 16" wheels and spoiler. The seat belt noise will drive you crazy though. Overall, I love it. May put a sunroof in, maybe aftermarket speed parts. All in all, its great!