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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  Mover over Honda and Toyota... - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Mazda3lover - September 16 - 10:00 am

  This is without a doubt the best car in its class. The funny thing is, it is also the best car in the next class also. I have the Lava Orange sedan i loaded minus the navigation sys. This car not only gets looks, it creates whiplash on the highway. People constantly stare to see what it is. Many features avail that make it feel more like a luxuary coupe. People constantly think it is a BMW series when they first get a glimpse. This is an excellent choice for a small family or someone who wants the feel of a sports coupe without spendning 25,000. Once you drive this car you wont need to shop around anymore.

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  This car beats the Spec V - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Mr. Zoom-Zoom - September 16 - 10:00 am

  I test drove plenty of cars while car shopping. I thought the Nissan SpecV was the car I wanted until stopped by the Mazda dealership and spotted the Mazda3s. This car blew me away. This car is so much fun I actually go driving for fun! The one piece of advice I can give you...Get the stick shift! The clutch on this car is smoother than on any other car Ive driven. Even if you dont know how to drive stick...it will be well worth it.

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  Boring - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By wassock - September 16 - 8:03 am

  With financial challenges looming I needed something less expensive to run than my Lexus IS250(which I loved).The styling and alleged reliability of the Mazda3 checked the right boxes.Unlike those who chose to write a review after a few weeks, I have waited 9 months so as to be more subjective. In a nutshell, the car is boring, gas mileage has worsened slightly, the engine is noisy, the center display is inaccurate..avg speed has not altered since day 1,outside temp gauge is erratic and virtually useless (the dealer says it is operating normally!) No big deal I know but it should work. That aside, I love the styling, the pearlescent white works well, and the car starts every day.

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  Most fun car Ive ever owned - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By allfiredup - September 16 - 6:46 am

  This is my first Mazda, after driving Hondas for the past 14 years. The exceptional handling, performance and design of the 3 won out over the improved fuel economy of the Honda. I feel like Im driving a $30k car, not an $18k one. Everyone who rides in or drives it, loves it!

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  Great Little Car remember? - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By JOhn MacLennan - September 13 - 5:16 am

  Mazda3 Sports Wagon (canada)On the way to buy a Matrix tried the M3 and changed our minds immediately. Great get up, styling, many comments, great ride, body seems to dint easily, 5 speed fun to drive, adjustable seats and steering terrific on long drives, controls on wheel convienent, instrument panel best ever, just came back form 1000 mile trip with bikes and loaded, 7L per 100K not bad, Zoom zoom uses lots of gas, regular driving milage is about 35 mpg. Hard to keep clean inside and out. Idler pulley seized on interstate in Vermont, Fri. on Long weekend, got part the following Fri. Mazda shipped it by regular freight from MO. dealer very good did their best for me

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  One great car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By David - September 12 - 9:16 pm

  My previous car was a 1992 Acura Integra which I really enjoyed. When I started looking for a new car I wanted a sporty 4 door at a good price. After driving the 3s I knew that it was the one for me. I bought a 2006 3s Touring with 5 speed manual in January and still think it is a great car. I love the 5 speed manual and the acceleration it has. I especially enjoy taking it out on the nearby windy roads. The car handles great. You definitely get the Zoom Zoom out of this one.

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  Exceeded Tough Expectations - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By carliker - September 1 - 11:30 pm

  I needed a daily driver so I could keep my sports car for the weekend. I didnt really expect the daily driver to be as much fun as the Mazda 3 is. I do believe its not only the best compact sedan to come out recently, but one of the best overall. Ive always been an auto enthusiast so Im quite picky when I test drive a vehicle. With better than expected acceleration, great gas mileage, low costing insurance, clean looking interior, attractive exterior, you wont do better near this price point.

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  Zoom Zoom - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By oldman32 - August 30 - 11:33 am

  The Mazda 3 hatchback can only be described as a incredibly awesome car for the money. Its got it all: performance, style, value and practicality to boot. Go for the 5- speed, you will not be disappointed. ZOOM ZOOM!!!

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  High Quality on a Budget - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By MTWnSTL - August 21 - 9:03 pm

  I just traded in my 2000 Eclipse GT V6 (loaded) for a brand new 2008 Mazda 3 Grand Touring (even more fully loaded). The dealership checked every box, including navigation, sunroof, and the Bose multi-changer cd. The fit and finish in this car is hard to beat in the class and price range. Everything about this car is high quality. So far, in my first 500 miles, I havent found anything to dislike. I was worried about "trading down" from a sports car, but I think Ive really come out on the winning end with performance, economy, and an upscale interior with all of the amenities one could want.

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  Great Car - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By aiseop - August 21 - 8:05 am

  I bought it new and had to let it go when my son was born. Owned it for 56K miles. Never had any problems with it. I commuted from NJ to CT every three days and the car was very comfortable, excelled well on I-95 and the Merrit Pkwy, and had great fuel economy. No complaints. Would have kept it forever, however, the rear seats, once my son moved beyond the infant car-seat stage, became too small. Great for a couple or if you have older children in front-facing booster seats. Miss the car!