Used 2004 Mazda 3 Sedan Consumer Reviews
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1st New Car
Dill, 01/26/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After having researched this car I found that it was the best in its class. After having drove it, I found that it's the best on the road. This car looks good, feels great, and is priced even better. I bought this car with all of the options available and I am very pleased with the results of each of them. I have no regrets about my purchase, and recommened this vehicle to anyone.
Love it!
11brakuy, 01/22/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
When I first went to the dealrship I was looking at the Mazda 6 but with one look at the Mazda 3 I knew that I wanted the car. Now the real test would be driving it. I took the car over night I it handled so well even the people that had there doubts had nothing bad to say. I have had the car a little over 3 weeks and I am just as happy as the day I drove it off the lot.
Just what I've been waiting for!
D2, 12/19/2003
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car fits the bill for me! It is a perfect combination of price, performance, looks, and economy. I have always liked Mazda but until now couldn't get the right mix of features and options to satisfy. I have only had the car for a couple of weeks but I can tell you right now, it;s a keeper!
Wow
igozmzm2, 01/31/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this car! It's the best looking car that I have seen in a long time, and everywhere I go, people are saying great things about it. Many of them have begged for a ride, and love it. It's the most fun to drive, and since I've gotten it, 2 of my friends have now purchased one as well. It's a luxury car without the luxury price. The controls are easy to use, within reach, and the navi system is a breeze to use. I went out of state the weekend I purchased the car, had no problems using it. I feel like I got a steal when I purchased this car...people think it's a 30K car, when I tell them 20K they flip out.
Damn!
charlies factory, 02/04/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
the best 4 cylinder automatic on the market. the new srt-4 neon is nice but sometimes u dont always want to drive a stick and my car gives u an option
Tens all around
Christina, 01/06/2005
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The Mazda 3 is an excellent car! It gets terrific gas mileage, runs well, and with DOHC has great power. It's entirely reliable, and very roomy, yet with a compact, sleek look to it. Many people have asked me if my car is an Audi from looking at the exterior of it! I got a classy look, for a fraction of the price!
Compact....??? I say it's a sport.
Guto, 12/21/2003
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I’ve spent about 3 months looking for a compact. What I found? Good cars, reasonable prices, and a total lack of attention to the small segment of cars. Mazda certainly created another concept for compact cars. I bought an M 3i sedan with power package, ac, sport/auto transmission and it is worthy everything single penny I spent. It is incredible to drive; it has an amazing design (exterior and interior), and an engine that needs no comments. The car is unquestionably the best in its segment
Wow I'm Impressed!
pishii, 02/03/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
For the price this was the best value I could find. The look of the car is decidedly European and the handling falls right in line with what you would expect from a Euro car at a much higher price. I love everything about this car and I am sure that once you test drive it yourself you will come away saying the smae thing. I got the 2.4 Liter 160hp s type sedan in Velocity Red and its just awesome. I have been telling everyone that I know how great this car is, which is something I normally wouldnt do considering its an economy car...but man this car rocks!
What more could you ask for.
deeceeuci, 01/19/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just purchased the 5-speed 4s with the sports package about 48 hours ago. Purchase price $16,300 -- What more can you ask for from an entry level car as far as performance, style, and functionality are concerned. This car looks like a bigger souped up jetta, performs like the matrix Xrs, feels like an eclipse spyder on the turns, but costs a few thousands less! All my assessment for the vehicle is based on the buying price and the fact that this car is an entry level model.
AMAZING CAR
yayak, 12/07/2003
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Wonderful new sedan. Great gas mileage. Very comfortable and roomy in the front. Fun to drive and well equipped. A great car to sport around.
After 5 years of ownership-Great Car!
Diane, 03/17/2010
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a great car. Love making u turns, awesome handling, braking, steering. Keep good Michelin tires and have them rotated every 3,000 miles or you'll wear tires. So far my Michelin and rotations are keeping it in check. Have 68,000 miles on car.
Great car
psymn, 01/21/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We just bought a 3s for my wife to drive and we love it. The car is fun to drive and it looks great. Our's had a problem with the rear brakes initially, but it was resolved quickly.
Forget about Honda and Toyota
Jeff Kershner, 12/09/2003
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a great car. If your considering a Honda Civic or a Toyota, even a Jetta, take a look at the Mazda3. For the money I dont think anything compares! I have been car shopping for 3 months, was going to make the "typical" purchase of the Honda Civic. Toyota just had no appeal and the Jetta was a little pricy for everything thing I wanted, sunroof, CD changer, pwr everything, etc. Once I heard about the Mazda3 coming out I thought I would hold off. I sure am glad I held out for the Mazda3 to arrive. 2 days with this car and I know I made the right decision. Great Warranty too. The dealership in Hagerstown MD was great to work with as well!
Who is Honda anyway?
Hondawhat?, 01/21/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Compare this to a Honda Civic or a Toyota Corolla and you are flat out nuts! The 3 is way faster, handles ten times as good, and has a longer warranty. What more can you want right? Well it looks better too, and costs the same. I'm tired of the Honda and Toyota cliche. Honda and Toyota aren't better anymore people! And this is coming from a used to be loyal Honda owner. Mazda is it now! Mazda is doing and building cars now, like Honda and Toyota used to.
Zoom, Zoom
detet, 02/04/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had this car for about 2 weeks, and 1000 miles later, I can say I'm pretty happy with this purchase. It's been through Chicago's winter already, and It does alright in the snow.
Can't wait to get mine
waytall, 01/23/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After looking at the M3 for months on the website I was glad to finally get in one. The only real disapointment was the comfort of the seats.A bit stiff in cloth, but the leather seats are much more comfortable. Great handling and plenty of get up and go under the hood. Not really sure what options I will be getting, but it is sure to include the sunroof,cd changer and the 4speed automatic. I should have one in the driveway by the end of the week.
rocket ship
hotptato, 12/14/2003
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
test drove the sedan 2.3L 5spd. wow what a rush,great take off speed,0-60 in a blink of an eye,handled turns outstanding,its like buying a BMW but alot cheaper, cant wait to buy one with in a month
ok car
EZ money, 01/26/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
this car is not all that it is hyped up to be
What a lemon!!!
Joseph Roy, 07/23/2005
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Aside from the excellent engine and nice features, the problems I have had outweigh the positives by a lot. In the winter when it was really cold, the heater only marginally works, now in the summer I find that the A/C is only mediocre as well. After bringing it to the dealership multiple times, they insist that it is fine and within the normal range. And after only 10,000 miles they had to replace the transmission. I had it in for two oil changes previous to this and they never realized that transmission fluid was low. When they took the transmission out the fluid was almost gone and it was burnt. Thank god for warranties.
Almost flawless car
Mipost, 02/05/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love everything about my car. Its fun to drive, its looks beautiful, and it was priced right. The only flaw was I've had my car less than a week and the check engine came on. The dealership told it had something to do was a new program for the computer, but i made sure i got a print out of the maintance.
good
wuioeiyhfuio, 01/26/2004
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It is very good and useful.
I like many things about this car
James Forte, 12/17/2003
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Coming out of a 98 Passat, I wanted more basic ride for my daily driver. The MAZDA3 is good, but certainly not comparable in attention to detail (but it's $7K less!). I am happy with the fuel economy and design, although materials could be better. Mazda should be proud and has a car that competes with the base Jetta and Corolla. The real problem with this car is its brand. Nothing symbolizes second rate more than Mazda with its childish campaigns (please stop!). The goofy kid/song argh! Fortunately for Mazda, the product exceeds its poor brand image. For me, I have to fend off all of my buddies who tease me about Zoom Zoom (its better than Suzuki!).
Mazda3 s sedan, auto
Loramay, 09/02/2008
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just bought my 2004 Mazda3 s last week, but I've already driven it over 1000 miles on a trip. My first impression of the car was great, it's sleek and drives well. The only issues I've had with it are that the driver seat seems to be made for tall people with long arms. When I push the seat back so that your foot is a good distance from the pedals, I have to hold my arms out straight to hold the wheel. I also bought this car not realizing that the 2.3 L engine didn't get very good gas mileage. I was hoping to improve over my V6 mustang, but the mpg is only slightly better. But I like the way it drives, and I think it will be a great car for me.
Best Compact
CB3, 01/22/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
So far I have 900 miles on the car. I don't have a single complaint yet. I chose this car out of the usual compact shopping list of Civic, Jetta, Corolla. The handling of the car is great. Even with the AT, the throttle is very responsive. Braking is equally responsive. Interior and exterior design is very attractive. Build of the car is very sound. I find the profile, and car in general, to be similar in comparison to the IS300 except 10k cheaper. Take it for a test drive and you'll see what you can get for sub 20k. My options include ABS/SAB/EBD, Xenon & TPMS, Sunroof & 6-CD, Sport, and Sportmatic AT.
Mazda 3 S, the way to go!!!!
casey23, 12/16/2003
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I actually just bought it off showroom floor 1 week ago, and love it. It's basically a mazda under a Lexus IS300's skin. IT's got everything and everything you can think off... of course, within reason. Very sporty, it looks excellent.
Mazda has just about did it
Macadonious, 01/28/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Engine is a 2.3L with 160 crank HP. With this displacement, you could produce at least 200 crank HP by reworking the head and remapping the ECU. Exterior is unique and modern. The tire selection is the only drawback as they do not perform well on any vehicle. Interior is clean and easy to view. Material seems to be of high quality. Driver cockpit is a little tight. Performance is a little lacking. Though cornering is nice, the rear slips at high speeds. This is due to the tires and maybe the small rear sway bar. Power to the wheels is a bit hesitant while already moving at normal speeds, but on the other hand, speed does increase without even noticing.
EVERYONE NEEDS THIS!
POO, 12/05/2004
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
this car is fantastic! i went from a non-fuel happy silverado to this and all i can say is wow! gets about 25 mpg, wish it was a little better! i couldn't be more happy!
a different car
Gary, 01/07/2006
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had no problems with the car. The styling has been copied now and will be used partially in the design of the EVO 10. It is so much different than having a boring Ford.
Mazda 3
kyle/isuzuman, 12/10/2003
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I dont own one of these yet, but I have looked at them and I have to say they are very nice looking. Inside they have all the features you would expect from a compact, and it is pretty comfortable. I didnt get a chance to drive it because the dealer didnt have the model I was looking for, and why waste time on one I'm not going to buy. Thats all I have to say on it now.
Love
Bure1088, 02/03/2004
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I did about 5 months worth of research to find a car. That all stopped when I found my 3 :). It is a lot of fun to drive and looks great. I'm hoping the reliability holds up. I have confidence. I love my car!
Mazda 3s
tim mack, 02/07/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Excellent handling, great performance. A ton of car for the money.
Zoom-Zoom to Putt-Putt
Paul, 11/21/2008
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I got my Mazda 3 in March of 04, brand new, with only 4 miles on it. I shopped around for several months, and knowing I couldn't afford an Audi, I went with something as comparative and fun to drive. The first couple of years were great. It turned heads and drove like a cat. It had a few small annoying features, like no finger pace to open the trunk, poor cabin sound and a mediocre stereo. But then the transmission and clutch started having problems. It gave a little trouble at first, and then the third gear just went along with the warranty.
Zoom zoom.....no rust.....rust....rust
Rusty Mazda, 06/15/2009
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A fun car to drive for the first four years. Rust started this winter and in a few short months has almost devoured the car. Not since my 71 Torino have I seen a vehicle rust so bad. I would never buy another
ANOTHER SUCCESS STORY FROM MAZDA
Jim Vesta, 12/26/2003
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The 2.3 liter engine gives this lightweight car a lot of Zoom Zoom. That said, you still feel like there is more real metal than plastic like in a lot of cars.
Perfect Car
yodasmurf, 02/07/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've been looking for a car for almost a year now. I just purchased the 2004 Mazda 3 s with the Automatic transmission. It's about time a manufacturer built a car under 20k that has a ton of features. It drives like sports car, very stiff suspension and steering. I've been getting around 28 mpg fuel economy which is great since gas prices are so high now. It turns heads every where I go. I really like the style. The stereo system rivals mosts peoples home theatres, and the in dash 6 disc changer is the greatest thing since sliced bread.
Fun car indeed!
Unix08, 02/03/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I was a bit skeptical when buying one. But i'm sure am glad to having a mazda. I've talked with other owners of other compact cars around, and they themselves agree that the mazda is indeed looks much better than other competitions. Though options can be expensive, this car is extremely silent which is a plus!. Might want to be careful driving this beauty, you might get a speeding ticket. :) Corolla's and Civic's have met their match. Can't wait till the kits for the 04's come out. :)
Love this car
jrnyace, 12/23/2003
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
this vehicle was supposed to be for my wife that is 9 months pregnant. We chose the mazda "s" for the four-door capabilities. I'm having more fun driving this car than my Dodge Hemi!
Best Buy For The Money
peaceman, 02/06/2004
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Fast, fun, and cheap!! Mazda came out with a great compact that feels like a sports car. The 3i engine with 148hp is fast enough and you can upgrade to an 3s with 160hp for an affordable price. The features and design is great. The dash has an awesome design. The sound system is good too.
NO good
Mbauer, 02/01/2005
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased a Mazda3 Jan. 2004 to commute to school and work. I am very displeased with it. The worst problem is that, in automatic, when the vehicle shifts from 1st to 2nd gear, at around 2500 RPM, there is a great jolt. The car jerks a lot, sometimes more than others. I called the dealership and they told me that it was the "nature of the beast." They had gotten similar complaints, but there was nothing they could do about it. The car is also loud (belts and fans) and noisy inside while driving. I want to get rid of it.
Mazda 3i
myprotoge, 02/07/2004
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this car! It is very responsive and handles beautifully. The fit and finish is impeccable. There is no competition when it comes to styling. It is best looking compact car around.
It's great!
nne3jxc, 12/22/2003
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The Mazda3's handling is tight without giving a punishing ride. The interior was nicely appointed and well laid out. Sure -- it doesn't have some of the fancy doo-dads that the luxury cars have, but I can turn on my headlights just fine all by myself, thank you. It's a comfortable little car that feels bigger than it is and has some nice bigger car features. (Many "stolen" from the upmarket Mazda6.) It's sensible without losing any of it's zippy fun factor.
ZOOM ZOOM
MARCUS DORN, 02/07/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I LOVED THE TEST DRIVE SO MUCH I BOUGHT ONE RIGHT OFF THE SHOW ROOM FLOOR. I WAS SO AMAZED.A FUN NON EXPENSIVE RIDE THAT ACTUALY HAS EVERY OPTION I WANTED.THANKS TO ALL THE PEOPLE FROM MAZDA I FINALLY HAVE THE CAR OF MY DREAMS.
best
nie, 12/28/2003
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
love this car. the best in its class
My Titanium Grey Mazda 3s
Titanium Dragon, 02/09/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased my 5-spd manual, Titanium Grey Mazda 3s Sedan in the beginning of the year 2004. Before I bought this car, I test drove several other cars which included the Civic, Corolla, and Focus. None of the aforementioned cars, IMHO beat what the Mazda 3s provides! The Mazda 3s is the best for a car of it's class and price range. The very zippy engine combined with it's crisp handling/steering-feel and a solid shifting manual transmission makes for a very sporty and fun car to drive. The ride quality maybe a little too stiff & bumpy & noisy for some. I've experienced virtually no problems with this car after the 1st month and 1K miles of ownership.
Couldn't help myself
mpg993, 02/11/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've been looking for a small sporty car for a while now. After many hours of reseach and test driving several vehicles, I just had to buy the Mazda 3. I test drove the Honda Civic, Civic SI, Toyota Matrix, Mini Cooper S, Hyundai Elantra GT and the Mazda 3. With exception of the Mini Cooper, the Mazda 3 is by far the funnest car to drive. It just feels good to drive. The hard part is deciding between the sedan and the hatchback. Both are beautiful inside and out. I opted for the european sedan look. The handling and acceleration are excellent. If you're looking for a great small car, go test drive the Mazda 3. You won't regret it!
Love it - except the gas cap
VickiSande, 03/28/2005
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It is a good little commuter car, fun to drive and good gas mileage. But I am a little dissapointed with the problems associated with gas cap and the vapor capture system. At less than 1000 miles, the check engine light came on. They said I did not tighten the gas cap enough. I had been warned by the salesman to tighten the gas cap. The light came on again same week I got it back. They kept it a week (with a free loaner car-but I wanted my new car back). They replace the gas cap. When that didn'twork, they replaced a valve (one they had never replaced before-that made me feel good). Just after 2000 miles, back again-need to tighten gas cap. This is very annoying.
mazda3
rgonzo, 12/27/2003
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
one of the most fun cars i have ever driven.
Nice Car
acefl, 02/11/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had the new 3 for about 3 weeks now. I love it. I think the car is good looking from the inside out. Has that IS300 look to the outside, and inside looks nice with the led luminated insturment cluster. I think is great that mazda put so many options into an entry level sedan.
Zoom Zoom x 3
petpad, 12/28/2003
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great new car from Mazda! The new 3 is leading the sub-compact class right up a notch or two. Dont wate money buying a base model compact. This car is very tight, good looking and well-priced. modern ergonomics and built in Japan makes it a winner. The car has been referred as a mix between a BMW, a Jetta and a Corolla... taking only the good from each of them... The Bimmer is great but too expensive; the Jetta feels realgood, but is poorly built; the Corolla has excellent reliability, but is bland and dull. The Mazda 3, particulalry the 3s or GT in Canada combines all the "wants" and drops the "bads". Nice car!
This car amazes me!
Gina, 01/23/2006
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Having owned Mazda's for years, I would not have dreamed of buying anything else. Had a 626 for 16 years and just purchased a 2004 one owner 3s in Strato Blue. I love this car! It is much more fun to drive than anything I've owned previously. It hugs corners and glides over bumps and for a 4 cylinder 2.3 engine it really has some power. The seats are beyond comfortable and with the sports and power package it turns heads everywhere I go. Although I have not yet needed an oil change (only had the car 3 weeks now), I am concerned with the thread I just read about poor design in the cartridge oil filter. Waiting to see if anyone else has similar problems with that.