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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  silver 2.3 sedan zoom zoom seattle - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By seattlezoomzoomsilve - February 8 - 10:00 am

  Can we saaaay! "zoom zoom yaa this car is fun to drive with the manual tranmssion,the breaking system and car safety is pretty good! how can you go wrong with this car if other countrys has name it car of the year

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  NO good - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Mbauer - February 1 - 2:50 pm

  I purchased a Mazda3 Jan. 2004 to commute to school and work. I am very displeased with it. The worst problem is that, in automatic, when the vehicle shifts from 1st to 2nd gear, at around 2500 RPM, there is a great jolt. The car jerks a lot, sometimes more than others. I called the dealership and they told me that it was the "nature of the beast." They had gotten similar complaints, but there was nothing they could do about it. The car is also loud (belts and fans) and noisy inside while driving. I want to get rid of it.

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  Wow!! - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Anthony - January 29 - 8:03 am

  There is no better car than a Mazda3 in this class. I look forward to driving mine every day. Its great on gas, has a great audio system, and definite curb appeal. I recommend this car to anyone whos searching for quality, economy, safety and fun. Youre doing yourself a disservice if you dont at least drive one of these before making a purchase.

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  Zippy but sippy - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By 1carnut - January 27 - 4:56 am

  Have only owned for a short time. Love the handling and fun factor like other reviewers. Also dont like the fuel economy like others. I have owned an 04 Acura TL (270 hp and heavier) and an 07 Sonata (235 hp 6) and both of those average 28 mpg just like Im getting with the Mazda. Doesnt make sense to me. I dont drive it hard and I have just a small amount of stop and go. Im going to switch to synthentic oil and Im hoping it improves after break in.

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  Best car in its class - 2014 Mazda Mazda3
  By sp00q - January 27 - 4:55 am

  I got my 2014 Mazda 3 GS a couple of months ago, after extensive research of the compact car market. My conclusion was that Mazda 3 is simply the best non-luxury compact car money can buy in 2014. The car: excellent handling, exceptional fuel economy, lively engine that lets you have some fun, great chassis and body. The features: obviously, there are a lots of differences with all the trims and options, but my GS has everything I could ever possibly need; I especially appreciate the back-up camera, navigation system, heated seats and automatic headlights & wipers. The not so great: manual control of the A/C and road noise at highway speeds.

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  SOLID in every way - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By shining3 - January 26 - 1:26 pm

  My dealer screwed up a 2005 mazda3 s I oredered in August. Car had no options on it, listed for $17,135. Didnt arrive when the dealer said it would so I got $1500 off a 2004 that listed for $19,310; has moonroof & 6- disk, abs & airbags, sport package. I thought I could be happy without these extras but now that I have them, glad I do. Too bad I see so many other 3s on the road. Car feels very solid inside and out. Make several dealers compete with each other to give you the best price.

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  My First Mazda, And Loving It - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By jennifer - January 20 - 2:06 pm

  When looking for a brand new car during fall of 2004 after selling my modified 97 Civic, I test-drove many different cars. Three factors were important to me. First, the price. Second, the performance and reputation for reliabilty. Third, how much i was attracted to not only the exterior, but the interior. The Corolla-S, Sentra-SER,Saturn Ion,Mitsubishi Lancer,Chevy,Ford,Honda,Hyundai and Kia models did not satisfy all three factors for me. When I test-drove the 2004 Mazda3S, not only did it cover all three bases,it was the only car that made me smile. It was also the first time that i sat in a Mazda, and I was in love. Beautiful inside, gorgeous outside, and a kick-ass motor.Very responsive

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  I love this car! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Lacey - January 20 - 8:10 am

  I love the 06 Mazda 3! I have been reviewing lots of info and many other reviews on this car. They have helped me out so much! In the 05 model, many complained about the bad A/C. It HAS been corrected. That was my main worry and now its so cold itll freeze you out ... and Im from Texas so that is mandatory! The new models also feature an outside temp gauge which the 05s did not. Overall this is a great car. I love it.

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  Love this car! - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By gman - January 18 - 10:00 am

  This by far has been the best drive I have ever had. Just got out of a 2009 Acura TSX, and could not wait to get out of it. Mazda 3s is by far a better ride, and $10k less. This car rocks and even with less power then the TSX, the handling compensates. I have only driven the car for two days, but already love it. I hear people complaining about road noise, I dont hear it, all I hear is the fine tone of the exhaust. In The TSX, I could hear the engine noise, by far worst then anything I hear with the Mazda 3. I will never look at any of the other competitors in this segment, dont see how they will be able to compete.... This might be the best car ever built for the money....

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  Zoom - Zoom! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By C. Cox - January 12 - 11:30 am

  Excellent vehicle. Well built, reasonable room for four adults, reliable, economical, very responsive steering and excellent acceleration in a four cylinder auto (2.3L). Just plain fun to drive. Will buy another if its possible to wear out this one. Zoom-Zoom!