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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  impressive...very impressive - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By paul0346 - May 8 - 11:33 pm

  My wife and I own a dog, and with our first child on the way, we desired a vehicle that would allow us to keep the dog away from the baby, and have the space to carry a pack n play crib when we drive to visit our relatives, that still gave us decent gas mileage (i.e. SUVs were out). We researched the Toyota Matrix/Pontiac Vibe, VW Jetta Wagon, and the Mazda 3 wagon. After test-driving all vehicles, the 3 stood head and shoulders above the rest in regards to performance, comfort and styling. We are very impressed with our 3!

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  As time goes on I love my Mazda 3 more! - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Adam. W - May 8 - 10:00 am

  After my first test drive of a 2010 Grand Touring Sedan I fell in love and knew this was the right car for me. The handling in the Mazda 3 is downright amazing! This car just hangs on and is how every front wheel drive car should handle. The ride is very good for the sporting capabilities of the Mazda 3. Interior is fantastic. Materials are all very high quality, feature content is superb. Seats are VERY comfortable and supportive. The engine and transmission are gems. The 2.5 engine is so smooth it is easy to hit the rev limiter while winding it out. Fuel economy is good. The power from the 2.5 may feel "soft" initially but once you get it above ~2500 RPM it goes well.

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  Slides around in snow really bad - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Deb - May 7 - 10:43 pm

  If you are considering buying a used 07, this car is great, until there is snow on the road. It isnt anywhere close to being safe in the winter. The tires are too low. Id have to change the wheels to get an all weather tire on it and with those big brakes, Im not even sure it could be done. If you live where it doesnt snow, the car is great, buy it. If you live where it snows, dont even consider it. If I didnt also have a 4- wheel drive pick-up to drive, I would have sold this car the first winter I had it.

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  Love this car. - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By John Moses - May 7 - 12:26 pm

  Overall, I have been extremely happy with my new Mazda 3. The i Touring edition, while not lush, is comfortable and well designed. Driving the car feels natural, with a sporty engine and great suspension. The car holds the road with minimal roll, and I believe that this is partly because of the standard stabilizer bar and multi-link suspension. Gas mileage is also great, around 32 mpg. Overall the cost of ownership is great. And with such a low sticker price, its a hard deal to beat.

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  Fun to Drive, Handy to Have - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By newToMazda - May 6 - 10:10 pm

  Ive had a manual 3s Hatch now for exactly a month--it has 1300 miles. Reasonable mileage (26-27 on suburban errands). Excellent for doing U-turns into parking spaces, taking stuff to the county trash-pickup, and transporting model airplanes with wings attached. Very high quality of assembly.

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  Your opinions helped me, so... - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By zeroismydoggie - May 6 - 2:06 am

  I researched various cars over a year ago before my purchase, and online reviews were a large part of it. To return the favour, Ill write about my Mazda 3 5-door. Everything about it is great. My boyfriend has an Avalanche and can barely afford to drive it, but my car, even with the high gas prices, is $45 every 2 weeks. And I drive home at lunch every day. The back seats fold down so my 2 large dogs can fit in the back without destruction, and with the hatchback I just lift up the trunk to let them jump in. I hesitated to get the fit, scion a & versa as they were puny. This car has some guts but is sporty and versatile at the same time. Cheers.

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  Best Car For The $. Zoom Zoooom! Wooo! - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Sleepyz321 - May 5 - 11:36 am

  Ive had the car about 8 months now. There are lots of features my car has for the money. Tilt/telescoping steering wheel, HID manual leveling lights, auto wipers, leather, air bags all around the car. AC is powerful. Audio/cruise control on the steering wheel is convenient. The 2.3 shifts up well and holds onto gears when needed though downshifts are a little abrupt at low speeds. Gas mileage is only decent and was expecting more but cant really complain considering acceleration and how I drive. Car handles extremely well at low and high speeds. Steering is sharp and impressive, with very little float while the car stays composed over bumps. Brakes have good progressive feel.

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  Great little car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By ksga - May 1 - 7:50 am

  After only 3 weeks of ownership, I can say I dont think Ill regret this purchase. Very fun to drive (great acceleration with manual transmission), stylish inside and out, and best of all...good fuel economy (33mpg for combined city/hwy). My biggest concern was small size of car since my last car was an SUV. Yes, smaller, but amazing trunk room and interior is roomier than expected. I researched cars to death before buying and this one really stood out from the rest for TCO (true cost of ownership), reliability and consumer satisfaction. Originally was looking at Mazda6 hatchback, but extra cost for not a whole lot more room, and drop in fuel economy made the 3 look like the winner.

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  great car - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By jaybee723 - April 30 - 4:23 pm

  This is one, if not the best car you can get for under 17k. This car has plenty of acceleration for the average driver. Also, the comfort and handling of the vehicle is above average of a car in its class. Fuel economy is very good as long as you dont floor it around. Good luck with that. Highway miles per gallon at 75-80 are around 33-35, and in the city around 28. Gears seem to be a little short, but this car works well even at high rpms. Blutooth is quick and simple to set up and use,the stereo is great for stock, and the vehicles build is solid and quiet.

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  Zooms past Hyundai - 2013 Mazda Mazda3
  By myzoomer - April 30 - 7:55 am

  Recently purchased after trading in Hyundai Veloster. Like night vs. day, this fun vehicle is far superior to the Veloster. Acceleration, Handling, Comfort, Bluetooth, etc. cant be beat. This is my third Mazda and it was a mistake to think that Hyundai could be anywhere near as good as a Mazda. Zoom Zoom