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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  Sweet - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Sean - January 21 - 1:33 am

  I got the S 5 speed sport auto transmission. Its so nice and fun to drive. Handles great. Just wish it got a little better gas mileage.

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  5 door fun - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Gee - January 20 - 11:03 pm

  The 3 5-door Gran Touring is a solid, well put together vehicle that is fun to drive. As a suburban commuter, i get 23 MPH. The original Goodyear RSA tires were bad, only got 18,000 miles out of them, and they were terrible in bad weather. Put on slightly wider yokahamas that are terrific. This car is heavy, and a bit of a pig off the line, but at speed is handles well, accelerates well, and is comfortable.

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  Best Small Car by Far - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Mike G. - January 18 - 7:16 pm

  Weve had our car for about three weeks and couldnt be happier with it. The performance and comfort is great for a small car. Interior is roomy and the controls are well laid out. For the money you cant beat this car. Mazda really did a great job.

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  LOVE my MAZDA - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Robin - January 17 - 10:40 pm

  Gas mileage is great, getting 34 mpg, city. I have no complaints. Great value for the money!

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  Zoom Zoom Zoom - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By sc - January 17 - 3:10 pm

  Just purchased pleased with look and interior wish it was a little more comfortable. I am average height 510" and is a little crampted. Fuel economy is not bad. I wish it was closer to 32- 35 the I have read about. Average is about 30 mpg. Warranty is ok, changed in the last few years I noticed. I am pleased, its a good car smart buy.

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  Great Car for the Money - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Rakis - January 16 - 2:00 am

  Would buy another one again in a heartbeat.

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  Fun car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Derfo - January 12 - 10:43 pm

  Looked at a Toyota Matrix, a VW Golf and a Golf GTI, and by far this was the best bang for the buck. Toyota Matrix and VW Golf are not as much fun to drive. Golf GTI, more powerful, costs much more and comes in 3 door only. The handling of Mazda3 is excellent and so are the brakes. Currently I am getting around 26mpg, and that is for mostly highway driving. The dog (110 lbs) fits in the car just fine and so do the boxes from IKEA. Visibility is great. The dash lights up very well and the stick shifts amazingly well. Overall, a great car which is fun to drive and doesnt cost a whole lot.

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  Smokin Value Edition - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By litchik28 - January 11 - 8:36 pm

  Have it in Copper Red Mica - absolutely stunning, with responsive steering, acceleration and braking to match. Value edition has ABS, leather-wrapped steering wheel, fog lights, wheel locks, satellite radio capability and auxiliary jack for an iPod. I also chose the 6-CD changer/moonroof package, cargo net and all-season mats. This car is funkier and hotter than the Civic and is much more fun to drive.

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  Best Car For The Money - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By CRW7096 - January 9 - 1:46 am

  Replaced my 2006 Mazda6 i Sport sedan with this in October. Completely impressed by the 3s capabilities. I lost very little interior room moving from the 6 to the 3. Gained nice features like aux input and electro gauges. MPG could be better, but then again I drive on the aggressive side.

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  Fun, Hot, Reliable, Good buy! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By mazdaisgreat - January 6 - 12:40 am

  I love this car to death. Its such a great buy for what what you get. Its stylish and fun to drive. Ive never had one problem with it. The only complaints are that the trunk doesnt open with the remote. The AC/heater is a little weak too. But I live in San Diego so this is not really a big problem for me.