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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  2004 Mazda 2.3s sedan - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Krzysztof K - November 12 - 9:36 am

  I bought her from private in March 2007 at 36,000 miles. Now - August 2008 she has 53,000 miles. Average 24.31 MPG - 60% city/ 40% highway (I have heavy foot). 32 MPG highway at A/C and 70-85 MPH speed. 250 miles at the city per full tank. One of the best purchases what I did. Fun to drive, good acceleration, excellent handle, short turning circle, very good brakes, finish internal very well and nice outline too - thats what I like. ** CEL appeared after I filled premium fuel, so I use regular. 100% satisfied and highly recommended.

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  Amazing Car For All Ages! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By JSAP123 - November 10 - 1:06 pm

  I bought a Mazda 3 in Winning Blue straight out of the showroom...all I can say is wow! It is a very "rich" looking car, but doesnt kill your wallet. I purchased mine for $21,000, tax and title included. It now has 15,000 miles on it and its been nothing but happy days. Just look around and youll see that the Mazda 3 is at the head of its class in almost every category. What amazed me was that insurance was cheaper for my 06 Mazda than for a 06 Honda Civic, 05 VW Jetta, and a 06 Honda Accord. If youre looking for a sporty, sophisticated, and fun car the Mazda 3 is it!

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  GREAT CAR!! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By browsnaz - November 10 - 10:00 am

  Great price, great gas mileage, inexpensive insurance, very appealling to the eye!

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  This car zips, errr, zooms - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By AtlOutlaw - November 10 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car as a second vehicle, I have an f 150 supercrew as well and I needed something with better gas mileage for around town. I havent driven my truck in over a week, I love this car so much! It handles very tight and sporty, it has amazing pickup, and it looks great! The gas mileage is a little over double my truck (Im getting almost 30mpg in mixed city/hwy driving). Plus, I routinely leave behind the tricked out imports in my area. The car is fully loaded, leather, automatic with sport mode, xenon and tpms, rear bumper step plates, autodimming mirror with compass/thermometer, cargo mat and net. Its easy to park, rides pretty smoothly and looks great!

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  Hats off to Mazda - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By MikeownsMazda - November 10 - 10:00 am

  Mazdas redesign of its previous compact is right on the money. The 160 hp engine fits the size of this car. Not only is it is peppy and fun to drive, it looks like a car that would sell at twice its price. Congratulations to Madza.

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  Zoomarific - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Geist - November 7 - 1:13 am

  Great car, good value, and excellent handling.

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  zoom zoom - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jcmansor - November 4 - 8:30 pm

  This car rocks! Worth every cent.

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  Love my Mazda - 2012 Mazda Mazda3
  By jonno86 - November 4 - 6:04 am

  Ive now owned my 2012 Mazda3 Skyactiv (auto) for almost 21 months, and I still love the car as if I bought it yesterday. In true Mazda fashion, the 3 delivers the fun-to-drive factor - it has razor-sharp steering and handling. It really makes the car handle predictably and makes me feel very connected to the road. However, that close connection to the road reduces ride comfort because of the firmer suspension. This is usually the compromise with a sporty-handling car. Reliability has proven to be rock solid. I was very nervous about purchasing the Skyactiv model with its completely new engine and transmission design, but my fears were unfounded.

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  Great Fun Car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Erich - November 2 - 5:40 pm

  Gave my reliable 97 Ford Escort to a church and got a new Mazda3. Its lots of fun and feels great. I thought it was head and shoulders better than the 2006 Civic.

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  Mazda is #1 - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By CHERIE - October 31 - 10:33 pm

  I love this car! I traded in my 1999 Ford Escort which made feel like I was trading for an ultimate luxury car. I researched this car for weeks; it’s the best deal you can get for your money. The black interior takes a little extra effort to keep clean. The swifter duster is the best thing to clean the dash with. The carpet and cloth are a little on the cheap side but all the other features make up for it. It has good power and especially when needed and good gas mileage.