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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  ZOOM ZOOM ZOOM - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By ZOO - September 30 - 10:00 am

  Since I purchased my 3 s, I have been able to relive what I had missed in my previous 5 years of driving. Pure enjoyment! Avery fun car to drive! A car theat gets looks from everyone; the color definately is an eye grabber with its deception of is it blue or is it purple? Strato Blue is its name and ZOOM ZOOM is its heart.

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  Best import I have ever driven - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By securecoffee - September 30 - 10:00 am

  This is the best and the most fun compact car I have driven. Even the "i" version has power with the 5 speed mated to the engine. Fuel milage is great not to mention the handling of the 4 wheel independent supension.

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  The Perfect Teen Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By sxtynnmach1 - September 30 - 10:00 am

  Great styling, fun to drive, and a sporty attitude.

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  Fernandos Review - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By fdehostos - September 30 - 10:00 am

  Its an amazing car. Very beautiful, nice interior design, build quality with comfort. Its all I need of car.

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  Commuters Dream - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By TOMKAT50 - September 25 - 11:03 pm

  Wanted a ride for my 60 mile commute to work thats fun to drive, looks good and gets good mileage. 10K miles later no regrets. Handles fantastic, solid on highway, excellent brakes, good quality interior with nice layout, decent stereo, comfortable seats and driving position. Around 36 MPG, and lots of looks even for a 50 year old guy like me.

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  mazda3 by Katie - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By jeromy - September 25 - 11:53 am

  A totally great little car. Mine is a stick shift and its my first car. Easy and fun to drive. The only thing that was a little weak was the horn. It was like a circus clowns car. My Dad changed it for an Air Horn like a Ferrari.

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  Oh waht fun it is to drive! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Juniper Girl - September 23 - 10:00 am

  I have never loved a car so much. Instead of waiting for my kids to ask me to drive them somewhere, I find myself asking them if they need me to take them. Ill go anywhere. I wish I had a longer commute just so I can be in my car! Except in the summer. The Air conditioner has some issues. A friend is selling his only 1 month after he bought it because it air conditioning works so poorly. I am not a huge fan of cold air blowing on me all the time in the car but it sure takes a heck of a long time to cool the inside off. I tinted my windows and that helps but if Mazda wants this car to be the BEST CAR EVER ( it almost is in my eyes) FIX THE AIR CONDITIONING!

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  my 3 - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By 3guy - September 23 - 10:00 am

  it is a nice car for a student as myself. it gets good gas milage and so far i havent had any problems (ive only have had it for 4 months). other than that i love to drive it and it picks up the ladies, or maybe its just me.

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  Cool Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By CSommer5 - September 23 - 10:00 am

  I have had a great experience with this car. It performs well for me driving from college and back. It gets great gas mileage.

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  hell yeah - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By 7000 - September 23 - 10:00 am

  in my opinion, the best part of this car is the abilty of acceleration. beautifully made car, always will give you what you want. intereior is very eazy to manage, nothing hard to find. fun car to play with.