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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  For the price its a good car! - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Kelly W - August 21 - 3:50 pm

  This is a solid car and overall Im happy with my purchase. The two problems that I have is that my driver seat SQUEAKS and I hate it! The other problem is that the clutch pedal does not seem to go down very smooth...though it does not affect the driving of the car. I will have to have them look into these problems. I got the very basic model as I did not have many options available to me for the standard (stick shift) transmission. This basic model did not come with power door locks or an alarm and I think that is ridiculous in 2010.

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  Showroom headturner - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By rexopg - August 21 - 10:00 am

  I betcha without the Mazda insignia people looking at it will never guess what I,m driving. Love the tiptronic type shifting lets me manually downshift and lets my wife drive it on regular Auto mode. Best quality small car that doesnt feel like an economy car more like a midsize european handling feel on the road.

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  $100 down on a Corolla - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By fleetfeet - August 21 - 10:00 am

  I had $100 down on a Corolla, drove the 3i automatic and went home with the demo.This car gets sweeter by the day. A very nice blend of gas mileage and performance. It is not a really fast car, but it doesnt seem to matter. 32 mpg in rural driving. I go for rides in this thing, something I havent done in years. Poor AC. Maybe I am nuts, but sometimes this car feels much faster than at other times.Not much dickering on price going on.

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  I love my new 3 - 2011 Mazda Mazda3
  By jlmm3 - August 19 - 5:20 am

  I bought a 2007 3s in 09 and loved it until I traded in and got my 2011 3s 2.5 with a 6 speed. This car is awesome it is fun to drive very quick and has good top end speed too. it is very well laid out both inside and out as well especially that dual exhaust.

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  Fun but problematic - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By rusxdrums - August 18 - 10:41 am

  I love driving this car. I hate how many things have stopped working. Air Conditioner, electric windows, electric door locks, Stereo. All broken. Ill not be buying another mazda. My wife bought a VW rabbit pretty much the same time I bought the mazda and her car still drives like new. FEH.

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  Great car - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By walt - August 15 - 12:23 pm

  This is a great car. It handles well and has a lot of features. It could do better on fuel economy in the city. Also more leg room in the backseat. Other than that, it is a fun car to drive.

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  Great car - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Sean - August 14 - 11:16 pm

  I was looking a sporty but practical car, and one that I could fit 4-5 adults along with a large dog (88 lb golden retriever) in the back. I have been very happy with my decision as it has overall been a great car. Fun to drive (manual), great handling/corning with 17" wheels, great in snow with winter tires & traction control and at 9K miles I have had no problems at all. Gas mileage is ok (26 mpg average) but would like to have smaller engine offered or other option on wagon to improve fuel economy for such a small car.

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  Great car for dry weather - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Abna - August 14 - 4:50 am

  I bought this car after researching the Focus, Civic, Fit and Corolla. It is definitely better than those cars. I missed a crucial factor when making my decision: I live in Seattle where it rains a lot and gets slippery. It also snowed a lot this winter and this car was a total disaster. It got stuck twice in my apartment complex and took more than one hour and lots of effort park it. This car is fun to drive, very sporty and handles tight but is meant for dry weathers only.

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  Mazda is the best - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By george H. Pannell - August 13 - 4:26 pm

  This Mazda3 has been an exciting and very dependable car to own. The comfort and the ride of the car has been great. I picked this car over the Toyota Corolla because of the body style and performance. This car has more horsepower than the Corolla.

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  Awesome Car - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Sludedude - August 11 - 7:10 pm

  Fantastic small car and very fun to drive. Quality is outstanding and features are great for the price. Interior is comparable to many more upscale vehicles. I put on mostly highway miles and average right at 30mpg (S Sport). Back seat is pretty tight but thats expected with this size car. Stick shift is very easy to learn and fun to drive