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 great small car - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Love My Mazda3 - November 28 - 2:00 am

  Bought this car new last year after several years in an Audi A6 wagon. This Mazda3 made the step-down very easy to take. Very sporty car with lots of interior space. Surprisingly agile handling and a high fun to drive factor. Its not an Audi interior (what else is?), but its miles above the competition at this price point (and higher). No repair issues at all.

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  first ever new car - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By ezequiel - November 26 - 10:13 am

  I love my new sporty ride. It feels great owning a new car. Especially when it is as sporty looking as this. I am a big guy but getting out of this car is no problem for me. It handles great. However the acceleration isnt as good as I had hoped, but it gets the job done. I am very satisfied. You know one of the main reasons I chose the Mazda 3 is the body style. I am just being honest.

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  fun - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By cjb - November 21 - 9:33 am

  Fun car to drive, peppy engine that loves to be pushed and comes alive at higher rpm`s. Gas mileage is so so with a heavy right foot even with a stick shift. If you live in a snow belt you better save $600 for a good set of snows as the Goodyear all season stink in winter driving. Cheap to insure.

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  I upgraded and had some ups and downs - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Damian - November 19 - 10:00 am

  I like the way it handles now versus how it did when I bought it. Its a used car with only 17,700 miles on it so its a good deal. Of course I needed to fix some things before I could actually enjoy it like I now do. I like how it gets up there when I need it and when I out on a 1 to 2 hour drive I love the bose system. It helps to have soft tires greatly. This car corners nicely.

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  Very nice little car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By bellamusica - November 12 - 4:50 pm

  I stepped down from a luxury make to purchase this car. It is a great compromise, with enough luxury features to make me happy, but is still a practical car. The handling is excellent, and the pickup is very good for a small car. The engine is much quieter than other 4-cylinder cars of its type. The gas mileage isnt stellar, but I am still breaking it in. If you want a reliable hatchback that is fun to drive, this car fits the bill. No regrets.

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  Zoom, Zoom, Zoom - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By NewVoomer - November 12 - 1:36 pm

  This Mazda has earned its slogan. Zoom, Zoom, Zoom. It handles like an expensive sports car. Functions like a compact family car. It has looks and style. Big bang for the buck. I love it more than my Lexus. Need I say more?

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  My first car - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By MikeS. - November 6 - 6:40 pm

  I got my Mazda3 hatchback about one month ago, and so far this car has been amazing. I have not yet tried it on the highway so I cant comment on the MPG there, however the MPG I am averaging in the city is about 19-20. This car is easy to wash, fun to drive, and has tons of get-up-and-go. I would have given it a 10.0 rating had it not been for the false advertising of the MPG city. There is a ton of room in the back, in fact just the other day I fit my entire drum set packed up in boxes in the back of this car.

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  z-Mazda - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By z-man - November 6 - 1:33 am

  Its been fun since the 1st day I bought it. No mechanical or quality problems so far, very pleased with the car. Easy on gas and the wallet.

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  Mazda3 - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By James - November 3 - 11:03 pm

  Only had this car for around two weeks, but so far its a blast to drive. A lot of oomph in the first three gears, but looses some of it in 4th and 5th, but you dont really need it then. Handles great, fairly smooth ride, even for Michigan roads. The mileage seems to be pretty good, though Ive only checked it once (only filled up once). I got around 30mpg with a mix of freeway, highway, and a little city. All in all a great car.

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  Not My First and Certainly Not My Last Mazda - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By boatracer - November 3 - 4:15 pm

  I simply love me 07 Mazda 3S Touring Hatchback. Ive had it since new and currently have nearly 65K miles on the odometer. This little car has been trouble free. It still performs like the day I bought it. It is incredibly practical and while not a station wagon, it does splendid duty for hauling gardening stuff, boat parts and even lumber (if you use the sunroof) Im one of those people who service their car regularly - even moreso than Mazda suggests. Right now Im trying to figure out if I want a new Skyactiv 3i or keep my 07 just to see how long it lasts. Im a Mazda enthusiast (7 so far)