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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  ZoomZoom - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Scott - August 2 - 5:40 am

  I have the 05 Mazda3s 4 door and I love it. Its nice on the inside and out and fun to drive. Im 18 and commute to college on Long Island. I get compliments on it all the time and with the JL audio speaker upgrade and the addition of subs and a 2000 watt amp really makes the difference. I have neon under the dash and in the side door panels with lambo doors. 15% tint all around really looks great on the silver. I got new 17" rims and put the stock tires back on because they were fine. For around $22K with $5K in add ons you cant beat it. I will have this car for a while.

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  Awesome car. - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
  By Devin - July 30 - 4:00 am

  This is my first car, and as such I am simply glad to have one, but I have fallen in love with pretty much every aspect of the car. It has very good handling and a fairly peppy engine, although it is not a Corvette by any means. The aesthetics are very high quality and good looking both inside and out. Mine came with a 4 speaker audio system, but for a 4 speaker, the sound output is very high quality with rumbling bass and clear trebles. The only gripe I have is that power windows/door locks are only available in higher trim levels costing almost $3000 more. I have also had to replace the gas cap, but apparently this has been redesigned and will not get stuck as my old one did.

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  Wonderful, best in its class. - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Will - July 27 - 5:46 pm

  I am writing this review of my new Mazda 3 mainly because I am one that reads A LOT of these reviews before buying anything, especially a new car -- so for good karma, I will add to the collective. I LOVE my new Mazda3 on so many levels that I will not be able to got into them. But for anyone considering this car, I can honestly say I regret nothing form buying this car. I also seriously considered the Toyota Matrix/RAV4, Hyundai Tuscon, Subaru Forrester, Honda Accord. I test drove them all multiple times as well as did in depth research online. They all came out pretty close on paper, but the Mazda was incomparable when behind the wheel. It is fun, sporty, great mileage, and reliable.

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  A Good Bang for the Buck! - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By jwjuliano - July 24 - 9:26 pm

  Everything about the car is top notch. Cannot begin to compare the features for under $20K, many of which are found in cars costing twice as much. Be careful of your speed; the car is fast and quiet for its class. Gas mileage is decent, low 30s on the highway doing around 70 mph with A/C running. Aux. jack is a great feature to allow hook up for your iPod or satellite radio.

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  Keep on ZOOMin! - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Paulis72 - July 24 - 9:36 am

  Had to replace 03 Protege hit by drunk driver while parked. Im so excited I went with another Mazda. My Mazda3 is amazing! I cant wait to drive it every day! My boyfriend has a BMW and only prefers German cars and is heavily considering trading for Mazda3, hes jealous! The ride, handling, performance is fantastic compared to other cars in its class. My Protege had 0 problems so I am confident buying Mazda again! I have nearly 700 miles on it in 2 weeks and each day it continues to amaze me Im not driving a German car.

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  value with zoom - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By andy lyon - July 20 - 5:46 pm

  The new mazda 3 five door special edition makes the 3 an even more enjoyable delight to drive. Grab hold of the leather bound three spoke steering wheel, press your body back into its supple leather, and turn on the seat heater. You would think that you where in a new 3 series bmw. The value of this amazing machine is far beyond anything else in the market today.

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  Zoom Zoom....OH YEA! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By londonblue007 - July 20 - 3:33 pm

  I totally love this car. My brother actually wants to drive it over his Miata with a brand new mazdaspeed engine in it...go figure. Awesome handling, great for pulling high speed corners on New England on/off ramps. Drove to Virginia and back getting 35 mpg on regular gas! I am still in college, and this is the perfect car for someone who is on a budget but wants a new, stylish, sporty car that is reliable. Still runs just as good now, as it did 18 months ago, and it has 28,000 miles on it! I love the looks I get from people when I drive around campus or into Boston....so many people are shocked to see the Mazda symbol....Zoom Zoom!

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  Goodbye Focus, Hello Mazda - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jon - July 19 - 4:53 am

  I recently traded in my 2000 Ford Focus for a custom ordered Mazda 3. The difference is night & day. The 3 handles beautifully & the power is great. No problems merging on the freeway here in Los Angeles. The interior design & quality is what you would expect from a car costing twice as much. I especially love the blue backlight for the instrument cluster. Overall, this car turns heads & gives a satisfying feeling even when parked. Highly recommed it!

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  Good car for the money - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By zoomzoomfan - July 18 - 11:40 pm

  This is a great car to own, but if you are considering a new Mazda3 then you should be warned about the tires. The Toyo tires that come on the Mazda are worthless. I have 25K miles and Ive needed new tires for the last 2K miles. Ive heard similar stories from other Mazda 3 owners. My suggestion: make them put on different tires for you before you take it home!

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  My Mazda hasnt disappointed - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Cheryl - July 17 - 9:43 pm

  I was really apprehensive about trading in my trouble-free manual Camry, but I couldnt be happier with the Mazda 3 Hatchback. Its a blast to drive, the seats are comfy, and Im pleasantly surprised with the gas mileage. I have a smile on my face every time I get in the car!