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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  Its Great - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Nerraw3 - May 30 - 5:30 am

  I have not had my 3 for that long, but I have not found anything to complain about. Its an upgrade from what I had before. The steering and braking are tight. I previously had an 03 Protege so it has similar handling, but the ride is firmer and smoother. It has more power, but I could still use a little more. Living in a big city you need to be able to accelerate fast when traffic pushes you to, and 0-60 in 9 seconds is a little under par for what I expected. All the interior amenities are nice, must of which I had in the Protege, but way more stylish. Also the four wheel ABS brakes, and side impact airbags are a nice comfort.

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  Bang for the Buck... - 2011 Mazda Mazda3
  By kurtri - May 29 - 12:44 am

  I wanted a small car, with utility options, to replace an Audi A4. Like many people, I am trying to stay financially keen in current times. Is there a car with semi-luxury features, good safety reviews, acceptable gas mileage - all within the Compact $ range? Yes - the Mazda 3. The car handles nearly as well as my Audi and has respectable power. The front seats are very spacious and I do not feel jammed in like the Audi. The seats are comfortable and the dash controls are intuitive. The Mazda 3 is larger on the inside and the versatility of the hatchback was a key factor for me. Looking for more personality than a ho-hum Civic? Give the Mazda 3 a try! 26 MPG mixed driving.

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  Zoom, zoom is not just a slogan - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By mikedugas77 - May 27 - 7:20 pm

  Wow, the driving performance is amazing. I loved my old cars (86 Mazda RX-7 and 99 Subaru Impreza Outback wagon), but I really, really love my Mazda 3. I get at least 35 mpg highway. The clutch is so smooth. The steering and handling is that of a fine tuned luxury car. The acceleration, especially at higher speeds, is very impressive for a 2.0L. Many neat interior design features. If you love driving, but want something economical, look no further. If you want a small luxury car, get it fully loaded and enjoy.

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  Best Bang For Your Buck - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By cah - May 26 - 9:26 pm

  I had a 2000 Protege. I thought I loved that car until the first time I sat in my new 3. The handling is that of a European sports car. I have received many compliments. Fit and finish is excellent. I have never been happier with a vehicle purchase.

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  Great Value - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jeff - May 26 - 5:03 pm

  I really made the right decision with the charcoal grey 5 door S. Black leather, sunroof, 6 disk in dash, 17" wheels and a very nicely done interior make this car a pleasure. I have read about peoples winter issues and I live in the NE and believe the fault is more the Goodyear tires that come standard. I recently put a set of Nokian WRs on the car and have had no problems whatsoever in the winter. The handling of this car is great! The feedback through the steering wheel keeps the driver in tune with the car at all times. One word for the car is tight! Int/Ext styling are sharp, hatchback holds a ton of stuff. Best car around for the money! Gets 28mpg with spirited driving. Go get one!

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  One drive is all it takes - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Tyler - May 20 - 5:10 pm

  Ive had the car now for almost three months. This car drives like nothing out there in the price range. I got the bose and sunroof option it was well worth it. Friends get in the car and are shocked by the quality,performance, and of course the bose. The car drives great, doesnt feel like a small car and i love the sportier suspension.

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  Zoom Zoom - Mazda 3 s Grand Touring -WOW - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Sir Force - May 20 - 7:33 am

  Having driven 2,500 miles in just over a month this car is fun to drive! Daily commutes are really enjoyable. I was originally looking at the speed but when none were available with the options I wanted the sales guy suggested driving the 3s GT - I was hooked. Plenty of power and it runs on cheap gas compared to the turbo version. The amenities such as heated seats, heated mirrors, xeon headlights, led tail lamps, and great sound this care is very enjoyable at a great price! I would buy the Mazda 3s GT again in a heartbeat. I can not believe the value I feel I get from this car and how refined this vehicle is. Highly recommended, drive one and see for yourself!

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  Best of everything for the price - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By JR - May 17 - 3:53 am

  I did not consider a Mazda. However, the test drive changed my opinion. Have owned Toyota, Honda and Nissan. The Mazda3 2.3 5M is better with excellent handling, steering, braking and manual transmission. Good power and quiet engine. The car is confident and secure at all speeds and looks great. The interior is well designed and high quality. Getting 28-29 highway. Have 15,000 miles on car with absolutely no problems. I look forward to driving everyday. Mazda should build a Mazdaspeed3 Coupe with the 2.3 turbo. I would buy it immediately!!

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  I LOVE my M3 - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By m3sguy - May 12 - 12:36 am

  Its Zoom Zoom Zoom to the fullest! Fantastic Car and so much fun to drive. If you can, get the S edition (Grand Touring for the 06 models). The 4 door S sedan in Rally White is what I have with all 4 packages. The leather in the Mazda 3 smells so so good! :-)

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  A Very Fun ride at a great price - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By hatcher3 - May 11 - 12:49 pm

  I leased my 2010 Mazda 3 Hatchback 2.5s with Moons and Tunes package in Oct 2010. It has been three awesome years of fun ride. Good: Excellent handling in curves (here in Portland) and really grips well to the road. Very good torque and performance. Overall very good styling in the exterior and the interior. One amazing ride for the price Not so good: Bluetooth could handle adding contacts better. Gas Mileage for a car of this size is not great. I averaged 23/24 over 3 years. High Road Noise which bugged be a bit. The Bose sound helped tune it out, but still it was louder than some other cars I have owners. Not engine noise, but mostly road noise, esp from Tires. Overall- Thumbs Up