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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  Undervalued and Awesome - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By 2010mazda3 - August 21 - 6:00 am

  I purchased my Mazda 3 two months ago over the Honda Civic. The gas mileage is a little lower but the power difference is amazing. The car feels like it should be valued at about $10000 more than the sticker. So far I love it.

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  2010 mazda3 sport - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Guy Senat - August 19 - 4:13 pm

  The 2010 mazda3 sport is one, if not, the best car in its class. With so much extra to offer ( automatic wipers, bluethooth, and even gps available ) will truly give you more then youd expect from a 3 and is truly worth the money .

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  First Mazda - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By BruceG - August 19 - 10:00 am

  The first Mazda owned in this family. The main purpose of the purchase is for gas mileage. Been averaging 32 miles to the gallon to date w/ 2.0 in mostly open driving. Compared to the SUV we traded, I hardly think about gas stations. The mileage range is about the same on half the amount of fuel. The car is responsive and has been a pleasure with 4,000 miles in a few short months. Im 6 3 and have had no issues finding a comfortable driving position nor issues with the comfort of vehicle. The transmission makes the car feel peppy and fun to drive. Trunk space is good for a car this size. So far only one small issue, a loose rear stabilizer bar at 3000, fixed quickly and without hassle.

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  nice car, happy with my purchase - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By CZBrian - August 16 - 10:03 pm

  I bought this car to keep the miles off my truck and save on gas. Im really happy with my purchase. The car is nice to drive, handles well, and has pretty good performance for a four cylinder.

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  Mazda3 very Audi-like - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Rex - August 15 - 3:20 pm

  Replaced a 2002 Infiniti Q45 with this little gem, which has almost as many "goodies" at about 1/3rd the price. Was looking for a disposable "commuter car" with decent mileage and some measure of driving fun. I considered Prius (boring), Civic Hybrid (cheesy), Audi A3 & A4 (great cars for people that like to drive), Acura TSX (just a fancy Accord), and BMW 3 (too, well, pretentious) before trying the Mazda, and had just about settled on the Audi A3. I had never driven a Mazda and was very pleasantly surprised. Good (not great, but considering the price, good) performance and handling, gorgeous interior, and enough electronic toys to make the morning commute almost entertaining. Two thumbs up.

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  Zoom-Zoom - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Mark - August 15 - 6:00 am

  Mazda has earned its reputation. This is a fun to drive "pocket rocket". The 2.3L engine has the get-up & go of a sports car, and the car handles to match it. I typically drive it at 80 mph on the highway every day, and get 28 - 30 mpg depending on how much I drive it in town. When I had to make a 2000 mile trip recently, I easily chose this to drive rather than my SUV, and did not regret it.

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  One Great car for the money - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Mazda3_4_me - August 15 - 2:00 am

  A few months back i walked in to Lithia Mazda of Fresno, California and purchased a 2004 Mazda 3s. Since then it has been that greatest car i have ever purchased. I love the way it looks inside and out. It reminds me very much or my old BMW 325i. I also cant seem to stop driving it. I love this car a would rate this car a 10.0

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  Pretty hot hatch - 2013 Mazda Mazda3
  By junglist724 - August 14 - 4:35 pm

  I recently got the i touring hatchback version of the mazda3. The steering is very precise, unlike a lot of other cars. Skyactiv is a must. The improvement in performance and fuel economy is worth the extra cash. Stay away from the base trim for the 4 door. The car is pretty fun to drive even at low speeds.

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  Somebody pinch me - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By T-rex - August 10 - 10:00 am

  This car reads my mind and accelerates. Trust me, it is that quick! Build quality is first rate. My wife an I really enjoy this car.

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  Nice look, fun and inexpensive - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Domotic - August 10 - 10:00 am

  Nice looking car that is fun to drive. New generation car, so its up to date in terms of technology and look. It can be compared to much more expensive cars (30000$+ Can) Accurate handling and good performance but fuel consumption is a bit more than expected (8.0l/100km average) hope it will be reliable on the long run. Have a good ride!