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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  X12-FLY - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By POOLEMAN - July 30 - 10:00 am

  I love this car,this is my first car and i enjoy it alot and my friends.I give two thumbs up for this car.

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  Very Happy With My Mazda - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By R. Holbrook - July 30 - 10:00 am

  I have been driving for over 35 years. I have owned 10 new cars. My Mazda3, after 7 months of use has been my favorite. The pick-up is hearty, fit and trim is excellant, it is very comfortable and I still get looks while Im driving it. I am sharing it with my sixteen year old daughter and we actually fight over who gets it. I only wish the gas mileage was better. We get better mileage on our 2002 Camry which is heavier and has a larger engine. Even so, Id rather be, "zoom,zoom, zooming".

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  Classy - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By mazdagrl - July 28 - 3:40 pm

  I got the new mazda3 for my birthday. It has been a very reliable, fast, modern car. I really love to get in and drive it every day. Everyone loves my car and always wants to drive it. its amazing on handling and sticks to the road, even in the rain. The lights in the car are really cool, and are fun at night, and the seats are very comfortable. The stereo system is also very sweet, and has great bass. I LOVE MY MAZDA3 <3

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  my new car - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By shantelly - July 25 - 7:53 am

  it is a great driving experience and the style is nice and sleek. otherwise, the car is great except the fuel intake. i seem to have to fill my tank three through seven days. this car burns alot of gas.

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  Bang for the Buck - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By morphball - July 24 - 3:20 pm

  I comparison shopped this with the Honda 2005 Civic EX SE (hmmmmm...1.7L or 2.3L?), and found this to be the better buy hands down. It is also worth noting the Mazda3 is less expensive to insure than a Honda, due to national crime statsistics. My only gripes so far is that the vehicle was sold to me way out of alignment, and the passenger side airbag seems to be disabled. They offered to fix everything without question of course, but it makes me wonder about Mazdas quality assurance (though its possible this happened during a demo). Otherwise, its a beautifully designed Japanese vehicle, that will have many of your friends feeling envious.

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  Love my Mazda3! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Stephano - July 23 - 12:26 am

  I absolutely love my little car. Its sporty but spacious inside. It is easily maneuvered on the road and gets great gas mileage!

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  It is almost perfect BUT.... - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Liam - July 19 - 5:46 pm

  I love this car, but would strongly recommend you get the manual transmission if you are after max fun. The automatic shift function is a joke. Off of the highway the 2.0L engine is almost just as fun and much better on gas, plus you can avoid those terrible 17" tires. 33K so far and nothing except basic maintainace and having to buy snow tires on steel rims and new street tires on the 17" rims.

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  09 Mazda 3 GT automatic - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
  By Wallnut - July 19 - 10:10 am

  Owned BMWs for 11-yrs; got tired of expensive fixes. The Mazda has creature comforts not typically found in this class. Leather, heated seats, remote starter, Bose upgraded stereo, 4-wheel disc brakes. Very fun to drive, way better looking than anything in its class (Honda Fit, Corolla, Civic). Fuel economy could be better, but a small price to pay with all the features and drivability. The interior fit and finish matches BMWs Ive owned. I researched cars for about a week solid before purchasing and nothing comes close to the bang for the buck. The one major complaint - the horn sounds like something from a clown car.

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  Tens all around - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Christina - July 19 - 9:43 am

  The Mazda 3 is an excellent car! It gets terrific gas mileage, runs well, and with DOHC has great power. Its entirely reliable, and very roomy, yet with a compact, sleek look to it. Many people have asked me if my car is an Audi from looking at the exterior of it! I got a classy look, for a fraction of the price!

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  I wanted to buy another one - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By A.Lodhi - July 17 - 7:46 pm

  I am in love with this car, I you feel connected with this car.Stylish , no cheap plastics, high end designing and features.