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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  GT wagon ownership experience - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By zoomdm - April 3 - 10:20 am

  Strong enough for a 4 cylinder. Fun to drive. Fairly quiet ride and pretty sports look.

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  Great Ride, Great Drive, Annoying Gas Cap... - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
  By jrslushy61 - March 30 - 11:25 pm

  I have always been a Toyota admirer, until I saw the sharp styling of the Mazda 3, and once I noticed how highly rated they are and the gas mileage, I was interested. I got mine about 6 months ago, and I have loved it ever since. The only issue I had was with the dealership not wanting to replace the recalled gas cap. I had it too tight one time, and they had to take it off and I notified them of it and I was ignored. About a month later, (a week ago from now) it had broken off when I tried to fuel up. Other than this issue, I have been driving this car back and forth from home to class, and have had no other issues. The ride is very smooth, I get great gas mileage (23 city, 32 highway)

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  Having fun already! - 2011 Mazda Mazda3
  By MazdaHappy - March 27 - 10:00 am

  First Mazda ever and I am happy to say I am loving the car already. I am coming out of a Mitsu Lancer Evo 2008 which was an excellent car but too pricey. I commute a few times per week to work & appts so I wanted something reliable but affordable. So far I am enjoying the ride, fit (Im 62", 200 lbs), and styling. I looked at a 2010 model but decided on the 2011. Build quality is excellent. The ride is as advertised and the interior is awesome. I would highly recommend this vehicle for anyone looking for a sedan with ample room and comfort. Cant go wrong with resale value either.

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  Cute and Fun Car! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By lolokay - March 23 - 2:00 am

  I just bought the M3 today and have already had a lot of fun driving it. Besides being inexpensive, it is stylish and easy to drive. I actually bought the car for my teenage son, but he may never get to use it because I am enjoying it so much! When I went to the dealer I was going to buy a Mazda 6 but I found this to be almost as nice, much more interesting to look at, and about $7,000 cheaper! I think this will be a hit with the teens and college students.

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  Watchout!!!! The Mazda3 is a Cut Above - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By greg jackson - March 23 - 2:00 am

  The smooth, quiet 2.3l engine along with almost no road noise is amazing in this class car. The interior quality and design belongs in a far more expensive car. The 3 is much faster than it feels like. You look at the speedometer and your 20 mph over the speed limit. First gear (automatic) with your foot down just a little and your gone. Wonderful handling car.

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  The alternate to my Corvette - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Larry - March 19 - 8:36 am

  I love driving a Corvette on the weekend, but the Mazda 3 makes my 80 mile workday commute more than enjoyable. Over the years, Ive also owned an RX-7 and a Protege, and this Mazda is another winner. My 5 speed wagon has leather, sunroof and 6 CD player, and no problems to report at 80K. Excellent car and looking to replace it with either the MX-5 or a Mazdaspeed 3.

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  Cool Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By TeamMom - March 16 - 2:00 am

  This car gets alot of looks. It has been a fun car to drive

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  Terrible! A huge regret! - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By bumbieb - March 15 - 7:29 am

  My mazda is 3 years old, has broken down on me 4 times, and I am now told by Mazda that my car needs a new engine. I regret buying this lemon. Terrible customer service too. Stay away!

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  Awesome Car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Natalie - March 14 - 11:40 am

  I got my Mazda almost 2 months ago. It is my first car, and I absolutely love it. Everybody is jealous! It gets great gas mileage around town, and the interstate mileage isnt bad either. It is a really great car, and its the best to drive. I recommend this car to anyone who is looking for a sporty sedan. It has plenty of room for you and 4 other people. For all the options that you get compared to other cars in its class, it is a number one pick, especially for the price.

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  blind spots a problem - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By ash - March 14 - 7:23 am

  I needed a small hatchback, and of the ones I compared, liked this one the best (and the price was right). But after driving it a bit, we both were troubled by the blind spots; The window dividers make it difficult to see whats next to you or coming up. Weve not had that problem with other cars. We are getting used to it, but its something for others to consider when purchasing this car.