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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  Awesome car - couldnt ask for more! - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Brian - February 10 - 4:33 pm

  Coming from an Expedition, the 2010 Mazda 3 has opened my eyes to a completely new world of driving. This car is so much fun to drive! It literally has everything: Navigation, heated seats, HID headlights, sirius radio, keyless entry/ignition, good gas mileage (Im getting ~28 mpg currently), bluetooth, and much more that Im forgetting. I literally love this car and am so glad I went with it. Im 64 260 lbs, and I fit in this car like a glove (surprisingly!). I would recommend this car to anyone. It has the features of a high end luxury car with a Honda Civic price tag. Get the Mazda 3, you wont be disappointed. Note: I purchased the 5 door Mazda 3 Sport Grand Touring - not 4 dr

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  First New Car - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Ray - February 10 - 5:33 am

  I purchased this car about 4 months ago and so far I absolutely love it. When I get in I feel like Im slipping into a glove which will do what I want when I ask it to. All of the features combined just make it a joy to drive while also very relaxing. You can really tell this is a 2010 vehicle - everything just seems well thought out, well designed, well implemented, and high quality. If I were to do it over again though Id probably get the hatchback for slightly better utility since its a big change going from owning a pickup to a compact sedan.

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  This wasnt written just after purchased - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By kdresch - February 10 - 5:33 am

  Unlike most reviews that are written just after the car was purchased and are 100% positive because you are so excited, this one is being written four months after purchase, after you get to know the car and its positives and negatives. Hope it helps you. After driving BMW 3 series cars since 1982 I have to say Im overall impressed with my Mazda 3 hatchback. It beats my old, aging, E36 Bimmer hands down. The suspension is downright TIGHT, the control is superb. Acceleration with my 6 speed manual transmission is super quick. To me the turbo is overkill.

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  Second review - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By CRJ Driver - February 8 - 6:43 pm

  Bought it new. Have 19000 miles. Rear engine mount had to be replaced under warranty and a TSB performed on the drivers side front end. New tires about a month ago. Other than that, nothing but oil changes every 2500 miles which is about every 4 months at $21.95 (dealer with coupon) This engine loves the freeway! 420 miles on a tank of gas. Good visibility all the way around, seats offer good support, good ergonomics, weak A/C (blows cold but fan lacks speed, must run at 4 to get some air but then its too loud). Mostly happy with it. Good platform, rev it up and you will be rewarded. For "coat hangar in the mouth" smile though, try the Speed3.

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  Mazda 3 Sport GX - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By vincentf - February 5 - 11:29 am

  Well when I first got this car I was super excited, because I got a great deal and I was sick of driving my corolla for the past 7 years before that. Everything was fine first couple of month and then things started to annoy me. I started having very bad condensation problem on the inside of the car. Went to multiple dealerships and they couldnt fix the problem they suggested I always keep my AC on which i thought was stupid. Next thing is the squeeky breaks as well as my squeeky driver seat when in a certain position. Last thing was I had to replecase one of the belts after 28k and it wasnt covered by warranty i had to dish out $120.

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  fun fun fun - 2011 Mazda Mazda3
  By baker - February 5 - 10:00 am

  I am in my mid 60s===not the typical buyer of this type of car . This car is a hoot to drive . Just a lot of fun . Reminds me of my younger years when I would just go for a ride to have fun . Responsive handling and more than enough power .

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  Mazda3 fun - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By doc - February 4 - 1:33 pm

  This is a well designed car which strikes a fine balance betwen the competing demands of an economy car. The performance is well above that expected and is equivalent to a 2 litre Alfa Romeo with better economy and reliablity. It looks like a little BMW at a fraction of the price and runing cost. Economy is excellent 45mpg on highway at 60 - 75 mph. Only the sound proofing could be better. Handling, brakes and active safety are excellent. I would however like a six-speed to lower the revs at cruising speeds.

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  Just a 3 - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
  By Steve - February 4 - 11:20 am

  Edmunds pushed me to buy a Mazda 3. I had intended to buy a Civic to use as a commuter car. Honestly, the car is what Edmunds said it was but it is still somewhat disappointing overall. Basically, the Mazda 3 lacks the zoom- zoom promised by Mazda. This is just a commuter car with poor fuel mileage. There are some nice aspects however such as attractive interior and exterior styling. But overall it is not worth the money. Its just a Mazda 3 after all.

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  Not in Snow ! - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Bullsnotcowboy - February 2 - 6:16 pm

  It is incredible in dry weather. Nice quick ride and rather cheap to own. Oil changes are awful as they have a plastic shield you have to remove first and Jiffy lube just cuts through it to get to the filter. I greased the 8 bolts so they do not rust up so quickly. Park this car when it snows - it is very dangerous. I cannot even get up a slight incline. completly useless. As much as I love driving it in good weather I will be forced to get rid of it as it is 100% useless on any little bit of snow.

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  A very well put together car - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By AJH - February 1 - 3:23 am

  Having driven it for over a month now, I must say there is absolutely no buyers remorse. Handles very well even if you do feel the body roll a bit more than say a mini but a lot less than the civic. Acceleration isnt great off the line but acceleration in the 40-70 MPH driving band is very adequate for passing. In short the gearing to HP gives you the acceleration where your likely to need it more often than not. Mileage varies based on how sporty Im driving it. Ive done 27 (70 MPH long freeway drive with a small bit of in town stop and go) but the car does give you the urge to well drive so more often Im getting in the 22-24 range mixed driving.