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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  1 1/2 Years later and still loving it! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Christina - January 4 - 5:50 pm

  This is my first car. As soon as I saw it, I fell in love with it. I test drove it and bought it the same day (Jan 2004). Since I was one of the first to have it, I had people everywhere stopping to admire it ask me what kind of car it was. Even my fiance, who drives a 2002 Audi A4 is impressed with it. It looks small from the outside, but I recently moved most of the boxes from my apartment to a new house in one trip! Its a fun drive, and feels very much like a German car built by the Japanese.

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  Wonderful - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By tangyterp83 - January 3 - 10:00 am

  I absolutely love this car. The sporty design is very young and zippy. The car definatley has some speed on it for a 4cyl. Gas mileage is not as good as I would have expected.

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  Zoom Zoom! Is Right! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By EHo - January 3 - 10:00 am

  Ive had the car for less than a week and always have the urge to go driving when Im not actually behind the wheel. I had a Millenia before and the 3 is much more comfortable. My wife and I test drove the ION and Corrolla before and they just dont compare in terms of comfort and build! Zoom Zoom!

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  Almost bought the Matrix. - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By dprefa - January 3 - 10:00 am

  Boy, am I glad I got this one. The fit and finish is what sold me, well thought out. So many standard features, better warranty, sure its a little more money, but worth it, look closey nad you will see. I labored over this decision and I know I made the right choice. Great handling, acceleration, braking, fuel economy, AND LOOKS! 3 months now and no looking back. My 3 yr old daughter loves the view from the back seat, good widow height. At first I was not sure about not having an interior rear door release or rear window that opens, but it hasnt bothered me in the least. You still have to get out to lift the door to open, no loss.

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  I like this car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By BICKLEHOFF - January 3 - 10:00 am

  For around $19,000 I got a car that has a great engine, great handling, ABS, safety extras, sunroof, 6 CD changer, 17" wheels with air pressure monitors and Xenon Headlights. I think it looks cool inside and out. If you include cheap financing and the 4 year 50,000 mile warranty its a darn good value and a heck of a fun car to drive.

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  What a Great Car! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Nickman - January 3 - 10:00 am

  I have had this car for exactly a month today and I love it! Everything about it is truly enjoyable. Ive put 1,400 miles on it and every mile has been more fun than the one before it. The ride is smooth (compared to my prior truck), the interior is amazing & you cant beat the price!

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  Fun car to drive-excellent car - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Luis - January 2 - 7:53 pm

  I was looking into getting rid of my chevy s-10 truck and getting a reliable sedan. Mazda is that car and more. I love the car and have owned it for 1 week. It drives like an expensive sports car and the feel on the road is excellent. You cant beat the price and the extras that the car comes with. If you need or are looking into a new car, test drive a Mazda and you will see what I mean. Love my Mazda 3.

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  Zoom-Zoom! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Luvin the Zoom Zoom - January 1 - 3:43 am

  What a great car! I love driving my Mazda3. It has more get-up-and-go than my previous car, which was a V6. I have gotten tons of compliments on the way the car looks on the inside and the outside. A great sporty car with tons of room and safety features!

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  I LOVE MY MAZDA 3 - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By hazelizz - January 1 - 2:16 am

  I love driving my Mazda. I originally was not even interested in this car. I test drove it a first time but after test- driving it a second time, I fell in love with it. Now I cannot wait to drive anywhere! I always want to drive if I have the option. It accelerates fast for a small-engine car. Sometimes I feel like a racecar driver behind the wheel. I am still in college and everyone always compliments me on how smooth the ride is and how nice of a car I own. :)

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  Love this car! - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By flagators2 - December 31 - 6:06 pm

  This is the second Mazda3 I have owned. My first, a 2005 Mazda3 s, was totalled in September. I knew I would not own anything other than another 3! When we went looking I found another one, only this one is an s Grand Touring Sedan in Aurora Blue Mica. I love this one as much, if not more, than the first. Great ride, sporty, and more car for the money than many others out there. I look for excuses to get out and drive my car!