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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  Over-Hyped - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Zack Harmon - November 29 - 11:23 am

  These vehicles are not well-made. My paint on the hood and whole front clip is chipping off whenever anything hits it from a bug to a grain of sand. The gearshift knob spins. The tilt/telescope wheel doesnt stay where you set it. It is very hard for me (5-10" and 205 lbs) to get comfortable. There is no ergonomic way to use the armrest while you drive. It is really loud in terms of road noise transmitted up into the car. Now there is a shake in the front end at highway speed. It is simply an over-rated piece of junk. I hate this car more than any other I have ever had. It has 7,000 miles on it, I can only imagine how bad it will be at 20,000.

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  3rd Mazda - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By CJ - November 25 - 2:46 pm

  This is my third Mazda, and probably not my last. As always, I am quite impressed with their product. Tons of fun to drive, and fairly economical. Averaging 26 MPG thus far with "spirited" driving, have reached 31 when taking it easy. Not bad for a car that is this fun to drive.

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  Totally love this car - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Steve - November 23 - 5:10 pm

  Last week I finally went ahead and purchased this car (5 door Grand Touring). I was a little worried about not having snow tires and being in the midst of winter but it actually is better than my previous ride. The wheels will spin when initially accelerating, but seems to grip the road well after that (I will get snow tires next year since I live in MI). The car is just so much fun to drive. It feels so much like a European car. I am still trying to determine the average MPG. Since I bought the car with 14 miles, the trip computer appears not to have enough data to make an accurate read.

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  Almost Perfect - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By blunte - November 22 - 10:00 am

  Saw it, drove it, bought it. I test drove the 5spd, then the auto (just for grins). The auto was excellent, and the auto-manual mode was great for times when I wanted specific gear control. Car is gorgeous, especially in the super-metallic red. (Edmunds doesnt list the Auto, so I review here.)

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  Just purchased - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Oscbert - November 22 - 10:00 am

  Was checking out Subaru Impreza. Then dealer recommended me to test drive the Mazda 3. Loved it. Bought it. Been running smoothly. Lot faster then I expected. Gas mileage doesnt seem so great, but not bad. It came with afterstock Rims. Make it look really sporty get a lot of looks.

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  the wierd sound issue after 1700 miles on it - 2012 Mazda Mazda3
  By jangk - November 15 - 8:29 am

  2 weeks ago, I directly emailed to Mazda company with the problem. Then, the issue was transferred to the representative of the dearlership in which I bought, so they was informed by me that issue, and they drove the car with me, but they just explained that " problem is because of new SkyActive transmission, so we cannot sovle the problem fundamentally because the wierd sound is part of manufacture." So with disappointment, I returned to my home.... ....I live Philadelphia suburban area, which means I live in a little bit cold area, but the wierd sound is not related to the cold weather.........

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  Awesome Car - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By colts#1 - November 14 - 3:43 pm

  I love this car. It is a lot of car for the money. It handles very well and looks more expensive than it is. It has adequate pep when needed and is good on gas. Inside it is more than roomy enough and the stereo and cruise controls on the steering wheel are very convenient. I highly recommend this car if you are on a budget, but still want to drive in a classy, sporty car.

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  My car - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By nan lomeli - November 13 - 3:03 pm

  I live in a cold climate area and this car really performs well in the snow. it is easy to manuever and you can practically park this car anywhere!!

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  BMW couldnt make a car better for the money - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By ksmo - November 13 - 11:50 am

  Ive just started commuting 50 miles a day, so I decided to trade in the 7 year old Dodge Stratus. While looking for one car to manage a commute, a car seat, and a yearning for my old 86 GTI, I drove my sister-in-laws Mazda 3s sedan. Great car, but not quite right with an automatic. I finally test drove a 3s wagon with a manual and fell in love. This is a better GTI than the current VW is! It makes no sacrifices in its pursuit of greatness. I bought my red one that same day. Test drive one asap. (But get financed first!).

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  Great fun - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Gary - November 13 - 3:20 am

  I have had this car for two years and it is still fun to drive. Handles great; 30 mpg highway, 25 city. My daughter is learning to drive on it and loves it also. Very practical and somewhat sporty. Am very pleased!