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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  Great Car - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Sam - April 13 - 8:10 am

  Its a great car. Ive only had it for a little while and I love it. Very fun to drive. Lots of head and leg room, very comfortable. Sporty looking.

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  I love my car! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By lovemycar - April 13 - 4:26 am

  Every time I drive my car, I feel like it is the first time I have driven it--and this is after owning it for over two years! I am a student, and this car was very affordable for me. It has everything I wanted in a car--safety, handling, comfortability, peppy engine, good gas mileage, fun to drive, great features inside and out, easy to maintain/ not very costly. It makes me feel great, safe, and very pleased with my purchase. I would not trade this car in for anything!!

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  2nd Mazda3 for me in 4 years - 2012 Mazda Mazda3
  By gr8mazda3 - April 12 - 12:40 pm

  After doing a lot of research and comparing the Focus, Dart, Sonic, Cruze, Golf, etc., I just kept coming back to the Mazda3. I had to trade in my previous one, a 2008 GT loaded, due to the manual tranny. I loved that car, but back issues have gotten into my left leg now, and shifting became a safety issue. I passed on the GT model and got the SkyActiv I Touring sedan with 6A. After health issues forced me out of driving for pure fun, I used to hypermile with my 08 model. With K&N filter and using 100% gasoline, I could get 33-35 mpg consistently. It has taken some time for me to get used to that auto, but I got 37 mpg on 1st tank. So much easier on my back, leg, but still zooms.

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  This is the compact car youre looking for - 2014 Mazda Mazda3
  By eserna - April 12 - 12:05 am

  The 2014 Mazda 3 is an eye-catching car. Thats enough to get you in the door. Once you sit down and take it for a spin, you realize theres not much reason to look at the competition. Its fun to drive, loaded with tech at your discretion, good on gas, and, oh yeah, its the best looking car in its class. I purchased the i-touring sedan in Soul Red with the technology package, and I couldnt be happier. With over a thousand miles on it already, Ive been averaging a shade over 35mpg overall in mostly highway driving, with a couple more conscientious drives hitting the magic 40mpg mark. While the price may be a shade higher than others in its class, consider it enjoyment tax.

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  Forget about Honda and Toyota - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jeff Kershner - April 10 - 2:00 am

  This is a great car. If your considering a Honda Civic or a Toyota, even a Jetta, take a look at the Mazda3. For the money I dont think anything compares! I have been car shopping for 3 months, was going to make the "typical" purchase of the Honda Civic. Toyota just had no appeal and the Jetta was a little pricy for everything thing I wanted, sunroof, CD changer, pwr everything, etc. Once I heard about the Mazda3 coming out I thought I would hold off. I sure am glad I held out for the Mazda3 to arrive. 2 days with this car and I know I made the right decision. Great Warranty too. The dealership in Hagerstown MD was great to work with as well!

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  Sporty looking and fun to drive - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By M - April 7 - 2:13 pm

  Ive been wanting a Mazda3 since they first came out and finally bought a 2007. All I have to say is this car is everything that I thought it would be. The exterior is very sporty, the engine is fantastic (definitely has the Zoom Zoom thing going for it), and the interior is very sleek. Those that are looking for a fun, sporty, car to drive should definitely look into the Mazda3.

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  Bimmer on a Budget. - 2015 Mazda Mazda3
  By mimazdaman - April 7 - 12:54 pm

  Just turned in my 2012 Mazda 3 GT hatchback which I thought was a great car . . . practical but sporty. My few minor complaints have been addressed by this new model. Better styling, particularly up front. More power , especially when in sport mode. Six speed transmission. Really wanted the manual, but left that to my Miata. Back up camera. Shopped this car against a BMW 4 series Grand Coupe. Almost as much car at half the price!

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  Safety - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By M3Owner - April 6 - 2:53 pm

  I purchased the 2008 Mazda3 Sport for my teenage son based on the excellent safety ratings this car received. I purposely chose the "S" model as side air impact bags were standard. Unfortunately we had the opportunity to test the SRS system in a recent accident which leads me to this review so others are not taken in by the false safety ratings that Mazda publishes. The car suffered significant damage on both passenger side doors and in my case the air bags did not deploy. I suffered serious injuries that could have been prevented if they had. When I called Mazda No. Am. I was told there was no one I could speak with and should persue through a lawyer or my insurance. Beware!!

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  Zoom-Zoom - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By jmcmillen3 - April 4 - 11:26 pm

  Ive had my Aurora Blue Mazda3 5 door for 6 months and love it more with each passing month. The design and handling are the standout features. The interior is one of the best Ive ever seen. The hatchback utility makes for a great alternative to SUVs. I nearly bought a Honda Civic Si sedan but the Mazda3 had more overall features that I liked and could live with on a daily basis.

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  I love this car!! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By reagansmommie01 - April 3 - 2:00 am

  I have been looking into buying this care for a couple of months. I have also been researching it on the web. This past weekend I was able to purchase it, and I know that I couldnt have made a better decision. I absolutely LOVE this car!!!