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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  My Mazda 3 S Touring - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By William Schwarz - March 23 - 10:50 am

  I have only about 300 miles on the Mazda. It is fun to drive and handles very well. The steering and suspension is crisp, the brakes are responsive and smooth. My first tank of gas, mostly local suburban driving, was over 28 MPG. The engine runs slightly rough idling while stopped. I was told this is characteristic of a four cylinder engine. It is surprisingly quick off the line. The only other comment I have is that the key fob does not have a button to open the trunk. All doors may be locked and unlocked from the key fob but for some reason they did not include a trunk release which seems like an oversight. The body panels have good fit, finish and integrity. So far I am very pleased.

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  Cheap Thrills - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Agent Smith - March 19 - 10:00 am

  This is a terrific car. Outstanding chassis and suspension and tight steering lead to amazing handling and stability. The ride is firm but not harsh. The 2.3L 4 cyl runs strong. I love the 5 sp auto-stick. In 2nd and 3rd gears it pulls like crazy, maxing out the torque. For a small car, it feels very solid on the interstate at speed. Disappointments include gas mileage in city @ 20 mpg; original tires wore out at 20,000 mi; and I just replaced the rotors at 25,000 mi. re: rotors, ironically, the pads were fine. Otherwise zero issues. I would buy another one in a heartbeat.

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  My experience with the new 3 GTI - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Andrew - March 19 - 10:00 am

  I really enjoy driving my car everyday to work, since Im not a long distance driver, I really want to go on a long trip on my car, cause It feels great driving it. My car as an annoying sound on the dashboard that the dealer hasnt been able to identify, it develops specially on hot temperatures, it really bothers me, but everything else is excellent.

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  First Mazda - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By BBK - March 18 - 3:06 pm

  I had to buy a new car. Weve purchased Hondas since 1980. A lot of bang for the buck compared w/ a Civic. Solid build quality. Great drive experience. More standard features than Civic. Bigger engine.

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  I LOVE THIS CAR - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By MIALT - March 17 - 9:30 am

  I spent a long time looking at cars and this is the best bet for the money. I live in New England and have no problems in snow, mud, or rain. The traction control works wonders. The features of the grand touring have everything I need. It handles like a charm and I find I get about 26 mpg with both highway and city driving. The manual is a blast, the stereo is phenomenal. There is a bit of cabin noise when your on the highway but I usually have the radio up. Overall, I have had no problems with this car and plan to keep it for a long time.

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  This car Rocks - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By TBM - March 15 - 11:40 pm

  Being an exclusive Mazda driver for the past 15 years, I have driven Proteges, 626s and Tributes. This model by far has the most bang for the buck. Luxurious interior, adequate power, 17 " WHEELS, sleek refined body, wide Euro footprin - this car is a charmer. If you compare the BMW 1 series in styling and body characteristics you will see many similarities. An awesome car for the money!

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  Luxury without the price tag - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Shelltop - March 13 - 5:33 am

  This is my 1st Mazda. I was driving a 2000 Jetta before. I was interested in this car b/c of its sports car appearance. I was surprised to discover that it has a luxury car interior/feel without the price tag. I got the moonroof package. Its a smooth ride with a kick. Ive only had it for a couple of days. But, it has been fun!

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  Fun on Four Wheels and a Budget - 2012 Mazda Mazda3
  By cleverjason - March 12 - 5:26 pm

  After driving the car a while, its easy to forget how peppy this little compact really is. So, to remind myself, I let my friends take it out for a spin every now and then, and when they push the pedal down and let off the clutch, and when you watch the inevitable Zoom Zoom smile spread across their faces, you remember why you bought it. Make no mistake: The 3 is no sports car, and calling it sporty for its class is like calling a Mr. Coffee pot "gourmet." But the Mazda 3 feels like a sportier car than it is, and thats why most people love driving it. If you can get your hands on a SkyActiv with a manual like I did, youll realize those modest 155 ponies pull more than their weight.

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  Fun car except 1 Flaw! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By ddkway - March 12 - 7:20 am

  Quick, agile car begging to be driven. One drawback is the car has a quick to appear symptom of strong vibration from the front when moderate to strong acceleration is applied. The dealer speculated it seemed like a loose motor mount, but on investigation by their tech they could only determine it was the nature of the car to have wheel hop. It comes on quite easily and is embarrassing and somewhat hard to explain to passengers when it occurs as it is quite loud. Im thinking the addition of traction control to the 07 model was to help rectify this. All the other good comments you see about this car are right on the money!

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  I cant believe its under 20k! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Ben - March 7 - 9:53 pm

  This car has been a blast to drive. Anyone looking for a sub-20 car should certainly consider this car. No other car in my eyes measured up in terms of the visual appeal or build quality. After careful deliberation, I arrived at the decision to buy it after driving the competition. The difference was so obvious I immediately sought out a 3 for myself. Just drive it.