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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  A new kind of compact - 2014 Mazda Mazda3
  By accord7 - January 4 - 10:43 pm

  Forget everything you know about compact cars. I traded in my 2013 Mazda 3 for the just released 2014, and its a totally different kind of car. Interior is fitted with high-end materials for the dash and controls, and feels more like a luxury car. The handling and suspension are both top rate... you can be aggressive with your drive with good steering feel, and the harshness of the prior model has all been eliminated. The 2.0 engine is fine for day to day driving, but it lags a little when full power is required.

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  Sweet3 - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By mazduh3 - January 2 - 1:16 am

  This car has the highest in its class for safety, quality and reliability. This is my 4th Mazda, and i will continue to be a member of the Mazda family. The smoothness of the transmission, excellent fuel economy. Very Sporty, plenty of power out of the 2.0L MZR 4 Cylinder engine with 148 hp. Easy to get up and go in traffic. With small children safety is key, and this beat the CIVIC and COROLLA hands down. A++ Mazda! Dont compare apples to oranges, dont compare the Mazda price to a Honda or Toyota, You get a lot more than you pay for with a Mazda, especially this 3. So if youre looking to buy one, stop thinking about it, BUY IT

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  Poor gas mileage - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Rebecca - December 31 - 10:00 am

  Just bought the Mazda 3. It is fun to drive. BUT I am very disappointed with the gas mileage. I am getting only 23.8 miles to the gallon- highway/around town combo. I am taking it in to see if theres a problem.

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  Poor Mileage - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Judy - December 30 - 3:30 am

  I loved everything about this car when I first saw it. Now that I have had it for almost 2 years, I am disappointed in the mileage. I do mostly city driving, and I am lucky to get 25 mpg. I was told I would get high 20s and mid 30s on the highway. No way that is happening. Also, I had the tires rotated, and the car is very noisy. Would prefer it to be a quieter car. Love the looks of it though.

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  Best Car Ive Owned so far - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Guru666 - December 27 - 4:23 am

  I bought the i sport base model, 5 speed (I dont buy automatics) with no power options. Handling and cornering is excellent, and the engine and transmission are smooth. Passing is no problem as long as you know how to drive. I have been very happy with this car thus far. Its a very affordable car that I actually take pride in. I wouldnt even consider a civic or corolla after buying this car. I drove the base model Mazda6 and would take the Mazda3 any day. I did put after market 17 inch rims on the car. With steel 15 inch steel rims I averaged 33 MPG mixed driving, with the larger wheels I average 28 MPG. This car is very reliable and I look forward to driving it every chance I can.

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  Zoom Zoom for sure - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Grose81 - December 27 - 1:56 am

  Having driven a ford escort (mazda SOHC engine) I wasnt accustomed to the PU. Beware, the motor hums in 5 gear from 35 to 80 mph. I literally touch the gas pedal and I get great response. So Zoom- zoom is real, beware. Keep it at or around posted speed. Speaking of Speed, I cant imagine dealing the Speed option with 260 hp, hello speeding tickets. Speed too fast unless your dealing with open highway.

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  Sporty - Reliable - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By sclwkr - December 24 - 5:20 pm

  58000 mile on my zoom mobile. Needed tires @ 32000 mi. No other major issues. Gas mileage is 31 city/hgwy. 35 mpg going long on hgwy. To work & back daily 2.3 engine rocks. dont be afraid to rev. Great wet, ok in snow. Thank God for ABS. Minor probs: console intrudes somewhat for long trips. Odd oil filter to change. Floor mats look good but wore thru quick. Took off Toyo oems and put on Yokos. Sticks to curves. Sound system rocks. Sunroof a must. Golf clubs fit nicely in trunk. Highly recommend! ZOOM ZOOM ZOOM

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  Great Bang for the Buck - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
  By RonW - December 24 - 2:00 am

  While Im a big Honda fan, Ive also owned three Mazda and couldnt pass up an end of year deal on my 3. Great exterior styling, this car looks like more money. Handling is a bit stiff but also responsive. Smooth engine but get the manual transmission for the 2.0 engine. While mileage could be better, I cant complain. Just came back from a 500 mile trip to FL with no problems. The instruments and ergonomics are quite good on the Mazda 3. Only niggles I have are the poor OEM/Goodyear tires, minimal grip and lots of noise. Gas mileage could be better and build quality a touch below Honda. But still an amazing deal for the price, I paid under $16K brand new...

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  My second awesome mazda 3 ! - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Mark - December 24 - 2:00 am

  I love this mazda 3! I bought a 2007 mazda3 in 07 and now I bought a 2010 mazda3 S grand touring this year. I love everything about it, the s gt comes with everything a BMW has. Power seats, heated seats, power locks, windows, rain sensor, sun roof, Bose sound, blue tooth for phone and ipod, aux port, leather seats, 2.5l 4 cylinder that will kick any 4 cylinder in its category. Stability and traction control are awesome in the snow and for high speeds! Never had any problems owning my 07 for 3 years and never had a problem with my new 2010, now with 14,000 miles on it. I get 25 mpg average and i drive like crazy person lol. This car does curves like a champ and responds really well!

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  much more than expected - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By cosmoK - December 22 - 7:36 am

  incredible. hats off to mazda for making a fun and a solid-value vehicle. for the price i paid, i got much more than a civic lx. Handles sure-footed around turns and the interior finish is simple but nice.