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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  Zooming! - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By rsen - August 10 - 1:46 pm

  Reviewed many similar cars but I knew this was the one. Edmunds gave a favorable review. Stylish, powerful engine, comfortable, safety, and best of all the kids arent shy to ride in it. The handling is great! Seats are comfortable and the kids love the dashboards lights. Havent had a chance to do the MPG thing but Im sure itll be better than my F-150!

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  An all around great car - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
  By LMF - August 9 - 9:36 am

  I bought this car after a lot of research and test driving (I think I drove the dealers nuts with all my questions!) and I have to say I am satisfied. The car is so much fun to drive and looks beautiful. I almost didnt get the S GT but was talked into it by another mazda owner. Am I glad I did! The heated seats are great, the Bose sound system is wonderful, and I love my sun roof. Dont bother getting the auto dimming rear view mirror, its a waste of money. Although if I would do it again I would have gotten heated mirrors. If you throw snow tires on it it can also manage the nasty New England winters pretty well.

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  Zoom Zoom! - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Melissa - August 8 - 2:10 pm

  Have had my Mazda 3 for 1.5 years now. Great turning radius-so fun to drive on country roads. The car has a lot of pep even though on Highways when you really need the acceleration it can be lacking (it is only a 4 cylinder:)) I love the design of the car, especially the back end. I do not like the way the 10s look at all as they have tinkered with the unique exterior. Overall, the car handles great and is fun to drive around the city but good for longer trips too. I tried to save money and buy the base model which was a huge mistake (but not mazdas fault). No key fob, no power windows, no power locks, no cruise control, no bose etc etc... Next time!

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  Motorized Perfection - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By cmdrscotie - August 7 - 11:50 am

  Test drove a used model and decided to give a new Mazda a try (never owned one before). Nice lines, tight chassis, looks like a BMW knockoff. 3.9% financing was a nice bonus.

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  Zoom zoom - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Tiq - August 6 - 6:26 pm

  For a 160hp pocket rocket, it makes ground really fast. This ride can hit 60mph at 3rd gear. Its effortless when climbing. Never doubt if a car pops in front of you and you have slow down or brake and it can accelerate right back with ease.

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  Mazda 2006 - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By shpage - August 5 - 3:56 pm

  We are so happy with our new Mazda. We wouldnt of thought that our Mazda would make such a difference in our lives. We absolutely love driving it and going for car rides. It is exactly of what we wanted from a car and now we would recommend it for anyone to own. We will have this car for a long time. It drives so smooth and has power when it needs to go. It looks sporty enough plus its economical. I drive it to and from work and get about 35 mpg on a 5 speed transmission. We are so happy with it and wouldnt trade it for the world.

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  happy owner - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Owner111 - July 31 - 6:00 am

  Great car for the money, the BMW of economy cars. Top notch styling inside and out, 17in. wheels, all power options included, 4 wheel discs w/ABS and EBD and a pretty good stereo for $15k? When you consider how much fun it is to drive - with the excellent handling, acceleration and braking of a 30k sport sedan - competitors like the Corolla S model (with the spoiler and aero body cladding mated to a 126hp engine) are blown away. It boggles the mind why Ford wont incorporate this platform into its US based Focus line yet does so abroad.

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  I love this car! - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By max - July 30 - 11:53 pm

  I have 2007 Subaru Impreza special edition now, and my lease is almost over, so its time to by a new car. I compared the Mazda3 hatch to the 2010 Subaru Impreza 5-door. The Subarus style didnt impress me. I got a Mazda3 with everything I could ever ask for. I can say the Mazda handles even better them my 07 Subaru. The 3s engine is monstrously powerful, making it an absolute joy to drive. It has a tight turning radius, is a pleasure to drive and I dont notice any excessive road noise. I have this car for 2 month and I love it. Highly recommended!

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  First New Car - 2014 Mazda Mazda3
  By mjdozie - July 29 - 4:03 am

  Purchased 07/05/14 Enjoying my new white Mazda3 S Touring Hatchback, so far. Only complaints would be the road & interior noise. MPG below EPA estimates. Ride is a bit stiff but still comfortable. Just about everything else has been above my expectations for the compact class. The engine is quick, quiet & smooth & I really enjoy the extras like the HUD & Blind Spot Monitor. A great purchase overall!

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  i finally know what zoom zoom is! - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Khuyenski - July 25 - 7:16 pm

  This is the first mazda that Ive ever driven in my life and Im never going back. I have an automatic and this car is still so fun to drive. The great thing about this car is that its both sporty and comfortable. I drive my sisters BMW 3 series all the time and I actually like my ride a whole lot better. You can really feel the torque when you gas it...so it makes it feel faster than what it is. The interior of the car is very pleasing. The front seats are comfortable enough to go on road trips. The back seats not so much but then again I never have to sit back there! Ive had this car for almost 4 months and over 5000 miles and I still look forward to driving it every day.