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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  Vroom Vroom - like this car - 2015 Mazda Mazda3
  By BAugust - January 31 - 11:31 am

  I previously drove a VW Diesel for its mpg (unbeatable) and how it felt to drive and that it felt safe for a compact sedan. The downside to that car was maintenance. When I needed to replace it, I wanted something with comparable drive, features, safety and feel at a lower purchase price and maintenance cost. The Mazda3 was a perfect fit in every way, though the drive its quite as solid as the VW, it met my needs. I love the interface for the technology in the dash. Its not hard at all. I have some problems with bluetooth disconnecting and I had to take it in to adjust the tire pressure sensor during winter, which you should do with any new cars if you live in a colder climate. The only downside to the interior is the heated seats only heat the bottom not the lower back, which I had in my VW. My absolutely favorite feature in a car due to where i live. The mpg is very good, though not quite what i was getting with the turbo diesel - though that is really hard to beat. I have a few weird dents appearing in the plastic exterior cover on the outer edge of the window that seems to be from a weakness of material as you grab the door to shut it. There are indentations that match where you would grab the door to shut it. Having leased this car, I will likely have to pay for the repair.

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  Trading in my 2011 mazda 3 for an 2015 - 2015 Mazda Mazda3
  By D.F. - March 10 - 5:20 am

  I was debating trading in my 2011 mazda 3 for an 2015. I test drove one then about a week went by and my mind was set on what I wanted to do. Dj was awesome, extremely patient and not pushing at all. He made sure I knew every detail when it came to the car while test driving. Then was just a text away when I had any questions. I am in love with my 2015 Mazda 3 and its the best decision Ive ever made. I could of done it without Dj though!

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  Mazda 3, The Head Turner - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By mikethuan - December 29 - 2:00 am

  The first time you look at the mazda 3, your mind can hardly believe that this is an economy vehicle. It has none of the woes of an econobox but has the pricing of one. The shifting is smooth and precise and the throws are short. The engine noise is also noticeably more quiet than the previous proteges. The features are unbelievable for a car of this price range. With available xenon and dvd navigation, mazda 3 owners can have what theyve only dreamed possible in a luxury vehicle. While the loaded price of this vehicle is a hefty, $23,075 (MSRP fully loaded 3s Sedan Automatic), the vehicle starts at $14,200 (MSRP 3i model).

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  Its very Good Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By 808hawaii - December 29 - 2:00 am

  Its very good and affortable

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  Zoomless in NH - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Dissapointed one - December 29 - 2:00 am

  Love the car. Great features, i.e. style, sporty, and everything that other posters have mentioned in this media. THERE IS A SHIMMY at speeds of about 60 and up, which is inttermittent, which is not being identified by the dealership. Theyre threatening calling it a "charictaristic" of the car. Be careful about this.

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  Zoom----Zoom - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Mosquito - December 23 - 7:46 am

  It is a great car. This is my first Mazda, I have owned 2 Subarus prior. For the money I couldnt go wrong. It has all the bells and whistles of most major luxury car makers at a fraction of the price. The design, both interior and exterior are well thought and beautiful. I get people asking me all the time what kind of car is that! It catches peoples eyes for sure. After I tinted the windows it took on a totaly different look. I would love to see Mazda put the 6 cyc. in the 3. It would make it even better!! It is quick now, but with the 6 cyc. WOW!

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  Had Mine For 6 Months - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By awesome3 - December 18 - 10:00 am

  Love my car. More than enough power to pass cars quickly even with A/C on. Extremely manueverable, great handling. You get a lot for the money. Its the best value car out there, and I looked at them all in this car class. Very good room inside. Very good attention to detail. Velocity red is metallic, very hot paint. You can spin the tires on dry pavement in this car. Car can do 80mph as easily as it does 40mph. This car will move.

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  Zoom Zoom!! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By sengupta - December 18 - 10:00 am

  I was driving a 2002 Corolla when a sudden need of a second car made me to decide for one. Well, it did not take much time for me to decide about the Mazda3 (I/Auto/AC). I negotiated through Edmunds.com, went to the dealership, test drove and came out driving my new Mazda3. The very first drive back home made me realize that I did not make any mistake by not comparing or test driving other cars.

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  I love my Hatchie! - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Wrathwitch - December 18 - 5:40 am

  This little beast is fun to drive! I was previously driving a SUV and its nice to drive a zippy, responsive and sexy vehicle. No more soccer mom for me I have upgraded to Cougar! In all seriousness this car has the speed to pass fast and safe as well as smooth and quiet when you are not dare deviling. The only thing I dont like is that the vehicle feels floaty at higher speeds (130+ km/h). I suspect this being due to lightness of the vehicle. You can also feel her move when there are high winds on the road.

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  I like, Im impressed, but not satisfied - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Black Mazda 3 in IL - December 17 - 10:13 pm

  Bought the car new in 12/04. I agree that the car looks nice and is fun to drive. At 34K the transmission was replaced. Now at 36K the car wouldnt start! It has happened twice and the dealer(s) cannot find the problem (roadside assistance will only tow to the nearest Mazda dealer and will not tow back to the dealer where purchased even if its 12 miles farther). I love the car, but I cant zoom if it wont start.