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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  Great Alternative - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jeriko - September 25 - 2:03 pm

  So I was in the market for a used car and was having trouble deciding what 05 or 06 model to go with and then my wife just said, why dont you get a new one...so I did. I went with the Mazda3 s Touring Wagon for room and the addition of the side curtain airbags, but was surprised by all the little standard features: MP3 input, storage trays under panels in the back, and cupholders everywhere. I bought the car and immediately took a 1,200 mile road trip and it ran great, although the gas mileage came in a little lower than I had hoped (27 mpg), but that might more due to my driving style. I think this is great car so far and lends a lot of versatility to move stuff.

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  2013 Mazda 3 Hatchback 6-speed Review - 2013 Mazda Mazda3
  By androux13 - September 24 - 1:53 pm

  This has been my first Mazda. I was going to go with a 2011 VW golf 6-speed, but the mazda had better MPG and better accessories already included for the price. Plus the mazda has much more room in it. Im 65 and I fit wonderfully in the front seats.This has been my first manual ever driven and its been great! I bought it at 240 mi and within a month it now how 1,250 mi and the only problems that I had run into is a key fob problem, which is replaced under warranty, the boot wont close if you close it too hard, and that the back seats are WAY too small.

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  zoom zoom - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By brian - September 22 - 1:36 am

  Looked at civic, accord even charger. Do yourself a favor and drive the 3. The front end will grow on you. Rides like a Z. Im almost 40 and love aggressive ride and throttle response.

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  Well Crafted Machine - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By jazzman - September 20 - 11:56 pm

  After 3 months of driving this car it feels even better now than before. One reason is the dealership overfilled the tires to nearly 50 lbs. Recommended pressure is 35. After realizing it, the ride became much smoother and less rough. Glad I checked it. Average mileage is around 27. Can probably do very good highway if you can stay at 60 but this car likes to move fast. The 2.0 liter engine has done well, very smooth, fairly quiet. Getting on a highway with a full load may require using the tiptronic manual shifting to open the engine a bit. Rear door access for adults is tricky but I bought this car for me. Ive got a 2009 Mazda 6 for carrying the family (thats a great car). Test drive it.

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  Cant be beat - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Chai Charin - September 20 - 8:46 pm

  29 year old with 3 kids ages 6, 4, and 2. OK, my last car was a 2001 BMW 330I with the sport package that I leased for 3 years 12,000 miles per year. For more than half of the money I am still in disbelief how much I like this car. I got mine in Rally White, added sport pkg, moon roof, auto dimming/compass/outside temp mirror,rear wing spoiler, dealer installed black leather heated seats, anit lock brakes, after market 20% tint on side and rear, 17" stock sport wheels and tires, PIAA xtreme white headlights. This car handles and drives like a 330I BMW. The sport shifter is a blast although I wish it had 5 gears; it does the trick with 4. Everything is an A+ with 29 MPG with 4,500 miles

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  Smooth ride - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By James - September 20 - 12:36 pm

  Car is a fun car to drive while still getting the gas mileage that I need during these $3.00 a gallon days. Very nice interior with only one knock, and thats the red gauges, it makes it hard to see during the day. Other than that I love it. Navigation makes a nice add on and the Bose speakers and 6 disc in dash cd player gives me all I need in that department.

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  Great car with a couple concerns - 2014 Mazda Mazda3
  By wayne100 - September 19 - 9:04 am

  A great car overall for its class. You should definitely test drive one if you are considering a similar class car. Youll be impressed.

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  Great car for the money - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Brianne R - September 17 - 3:43 pm

  I got a great deal on end of model year on this car and I have been very happy over the last year and a half. Zippy car with great handling. Ride may be stiff for some, but I like it. The rear seat can be a little cramped for large passengers, but weve taken some long trips with average folks and theyve been fine. The trunk is also roomy enough for their luggage for a weekend trip. Gotta love hatchbacks! With the seats folded down, my husband and I are quite comfortable riding around Pennsylvania for a week with luggage and Christmas presents for all the in-laws. Turning radius is fantastic. Makes parking a breeze.

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  Great little hatchback - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By greenice - September 17 - 3:20 am

  Great choice if you like to drive, feels like a premium car in most respects. The ride is firm but still comfortable, and the steering is very precise and well weighted. I love the 6sp manual, but I wish 6th gear was a little longer for better highway fuel economy. Power from the 2.5 is good (certainly much better than in most other compacts), but the engine may be the one point where the 3 does not fully live up to the premium image. If pushed, it sounds a bit coarse at times and other engines of the same size get more power and better fuel economy. The interior is great with many luxury features not expected in this class. Overall a very European driving experience. Highly recommended!

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  Good value - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
  By Ben - September 16 - 10:46 am

  Bought the car and immediately went on a road trip. Handled well, many creature comforts for a car in this price point. MP3 Jack in center console is awesome. Glove box is huge. Average 33 mpg on hwy. Road noise is excessive and suspension is stiff, but sporty.