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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  perfect marriage of tech and performance - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By bipu - December 15 - 9:10 pm

  I have bought the car after reading all the positive reviews on Edmunds. I l-o-v-e the car. The bluetooth music streaming rocks. It paired up with my ipod in minutes, the palm centro works flawlessly with the hands free. After voice training I can speak to the system even with moderate road noise and get it to work. The drive is awesome. Zips through the Washington DC traffic with a true sports spirit. Although a bit sad to not being able to buy the manual shift (marital issue), the clutchless manual does the job right whenever I need the extra zoom zoom. Turns on a dime. The handling is better than German models. Still have my 04 jetta and love it. The 3 outperforms my jetta.

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  What a car! - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
  By kdizz - December 12 - 9:30 pm

  Just bought this vehicle for my wife 3 days ago. Prior she had a 4dr 1995 mazda protege and though she liked all the features what a step up! It matches all her wants and needs. Very sporty in look, feel and handling. Nice sunroof, sound system and interior. Feels like your driving a luxury car. Its also very easy to handle and park. Great value for the money especially since the 2010s are out and dealers are looking to move the 2009s! Highly recommended.

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  Yes! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By mexigirl - December 12 - 5:50 pm

  Ive had this car since July and am so happy with it. I must say I added chrome 17in rims and tinted the windows a little darker then I probably should but it looks super fly while Im cruising. Best deal for you money on looks, mileage, and pure driving lust. All my friends are want my car and I always get looks when at the stop light, you know. Then some idiot had to pull in front of me and I got in an accident. Anyways now that Im in a rental I REALLY appreciate my lil Mazda. Once youve tried the 3 youll never be free. :-)

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  Great Car - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Ken Demarest - December 12 - 2:16 pm

  With the kids all grown, I no longer needed a midsized car for 95% of I need a car for. The 3 seems just the right size and is a lot of fun to drive. I like the go-cart feel, and I really like the steering and suspension feel and sound on this car.

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  I love this car... - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Mike Hogan - December 9 - 1:43 pm

  I love this car. It handles great and it greets you with a zoom-zoom and hello and then a goodbye when you leave. The joker grin grille is a bit much, but it suits the personality of the car. Im tempted to get a Joker license plate. The hatch allows me to carry my mountain bike or whatever from Home Depot. Theres one thing I would change and that is the seat width in my upper back area. Its too narrow for me. My son just bought a new Subaru WRX and the seatback width is perfect. So Mazda make the seats as wide in the back so that the side bolsters surround the driver, not dig into my back. Funny I didnt notice it when I test drove it. Other than that I love the car. Its practical fun!

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  BIG CAR FEELING IN A NEAT PACKAGE - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Billy Mac - December 6 - 5:56 am

  Went to dealership to buy a Mazda Tribute as I wanted sport utility functionality. I drove the Tribute and then saw the Mazda 3; took a test drive and bought the car based on its comfort, looks and the ride is superb compared to the Tribute. Fun to drive and it has great gadgets: radio, driver information center, etc.

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  Fun little car - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By mazdamazda3 - December 4 - 6:56 pm

  I was initially looking at the Mazda 6. The salesman at the dealership found out exactly what I was looking for in a vehicle and suggested the Mazda 3 instead. I test drove both and have to say the Mazda 3 was much more funner albeit smaller but for what I need it was perfect. I have had a BMW 3 series a few years back and I would have to say it handles just as well as that vehicle for half the price. Its got a lot of pep for a small engine and actually looks very nice. I am very happy with my purchase

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  Great car recommend to all - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By mymazda3 - December 4 - 1:15 am

  I have this car for a little over a year and it has been a great car. My previous car was a 99 Honda Accord and this has alot more power and handles a lot better. everything is still running like new. One of my biggest gripes is that the original tires burned out extremely fast. Around 20K. It has plenty of power for passing and get up to the top speed, well the limiter. The shfit gear has loosen up a bit over the 28k I have had it but still good.. Love that all i have to do is change the oil which is great for a college student minus the tire issue. It scratches easily by the under the door handle.

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  My 2007 sGT Mazda3 - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Kelly - December 1 - 10:56 pm

  So far the car has been wonderful. Handling is magnificent, very little body lean, the car sticks right to the road in cornering. The traction control is great in the rain on wet roads. Road noise is a little loud compared to other cars Ive had, especially on the highways, but not a major problem for me. Overall, I think its a fun little car to drive. So far, its a keeper.

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  Nice but not for me..... - 2011 Mazda Mazda3
  By pure_hp - December 1 - 4:07 am

  I purchased the Sport hatchback, automatic. I love the bluetooth and the way it drives, lots of fun. Unfortunately, the wheel doesnt telescope out far enough for me without me being on top of the steering wheel, Im 61. Because of this, the window switches are too far up the door handle; Im constantly letting the rear windows down.