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 for the Money - 2011 Mazda Mazda3
  By darth_flatus - March 17 - 11:24 pm

  Bought my 5 door Grand Touring new about a month ago. Absolutely love this car. I consider myself a car "junkie" who loves to drive. I drive about 1,000 miles per month for work, and let me tell you, this car makes it a completely different experience to drive. The handling is great, the 2.5L engine feels like a V6, the seats are comfy...I could go on and on. My friends, family, and neighbors are all intrigued by the look of the car and once they get in and ride in it they walk away impressed. The backseat is a little tight on leg room, but, my kids fit just fine. Averaging 25 MPG do far with mixed but mostly city driving. Good numbers when you consider the power the engine puts out.

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  Lives up to expectation - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By jazzman - March 17 - 5:23 pm

  This car is as fun as everyone else mentioned. The handling is superb, power is ample--gets out of its own way. My mileage has been as high as 32 but averages 26 for mostly local driving. I own a 2009 Mazda 6 also--that car drives like a lexus, nice but doesnt have the tight handling feel of my 3. All the features in the car are smartly done-- most bang for the buck. Lifes too short for boring cars and this one is not. The rear doors are pretty tight getting in and out so this is not the ideal family car (hence my 6 which is as roomy as a lincoln town car). The only drag is all the slow drivers in front of me, especially minivan drivers. If I had the 2.5 engine Id be getting tickets.

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  Amazing 3 - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Rays 3s - March 17 - 7:00 am

  My Mazda 3s feels like a BMW in all aspects except price. It fits like a glove, and handles like a slot car on a track. I placed my order after one test drive, and waited 4 months for delivery, but it was worth the wait. Buy one, you will not be disappointed.

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  All Around Winner - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By SupportTech - March 16 - 10:10 am

  Nearly 3 years and 38000 miles later this car still puts a smile on my face every time I get behind the wheel. You simply wont find a better balance of economy and performance in its class. Interior fit and finish have been excellent with the only beef being a floormat that has worn out already. Manual Tranny and brakes are top notch in operation and feel. Worst mileage: 26 mpg. Best Mileage: 33 mpg Suspension may be a little rough for the sensitive, but the dividends pay off in the handling department. If you want a plush cruiser this is not the car for you. This vehicle is built for those who like to be involved and take pleasure in the driving experience.

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  After 4 SUVs I fell in love - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Kristen - March 14 - 1:20 pm

  I have previously owned 4 SUVs (2 Fords and 2 Jeeps), so I was more than a little hesitant to exchange my 4x4s for a compact sedan. That is until I drove the Mazda3. I drive 50+ miles to school and back 5 days a week, and this car makes the commute fun. I love on-ramps and passing. The car has so much zip. I love, love, love the fuel economy! I record my average for every tank, and its always been around 35mpg (33-36). The drivers seat offers great visability-something that I was afraid of missing after driving SUVs. Regular oil changes, and you are good to go! I get complements on my car all of the time. I couldnt be happier with my Mazda! Civic beware!

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  Awesome Sedan, Great Value - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By pepsizen - March 10 - 5:55 pm

  I have had this car for a year and a half now and I really like it a lot. It feels like Im driving a sports car because of the pep and the great handling. It has 90k miles on it and in the time Ive had it I havent had to do anything other than regular maintenance. It is very reliable and I dont mind that it doesnt get great gas mileage (I average 25 - 28 mpg with a mix of city/highway) because it is so fun to drive. The sporty/luxury mix is perfect. In the snow and ice, one must be careful of the pep and be easy on the gas pedal when accelerating after stopping, but other than that, Ive had no problems driving it in the snow.

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  Most underrated car on the market - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By blizzy - March 9 - 1:06 pm

  Personally, I love the Mazda over other cars in its range. The 2.3 is well made, with a spirited engine and solid performance throughout the RPM range. Redline performance is amazing, the engine sounds like a V6 and outperforms many would-be "speedsters" on the road hands down. The thing I love the most is the steering. It tends to become more precise and effortless at higher-speeds, which makes fast-paced driving easy. And the safety features are important as well. My biggest complaint are the crappy Goodyear tires - they get loud after a while, and Goodyears quality is horrid to say the least.

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  Mazda3 rules - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By yoda - March 9 - 12:06 pm

  I want to say that I love this car. I bought mine with a special package. I see that Im the only Mazda3 out there that has Injen Intake system in it and dual chrome exhaust pipes. I still love this machine no matter what. For the review, it handles very well. Far better than my old car. Boxy. I love the space it has in front for the driver and passenger. I love how they made the Mazda3 with the controls for the radio and CD player on the steering wheel with the cruise control as well. I also like that this Mazda3 has more than 2 cup holders. More storage space. The most comfortable seats ever.

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  Great bang for the buck - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By lemZ3 - March 9 - 10:03 am

  Downsized from a BMW x5 to this fun little ride. I needed a smaller more economical commuter and this was the only one that packed all the fun toys I enjoyed in previous vehicles. Handles great and definitely has enough punch to get out of its own way. If you are looking for a small-affordable commuter with all the comforts of a car costing thousands more, this is the car for you. If you get in blindfolded youll never know youre driving a sub 25K mazda.

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  Fun Zoom Zoom - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Happy Zoom Zoom - March 8 - 8:43 am

  Bought my 3 for cheap reliable transportation, so far not diappointed. Love the response and drivability. I am a 300+ 61" male and I fit in the car nicely and comfortably. This car is roomier inside than it looks... Happy Zoom Zoom!!!