Used 2004 Mazda 3 Sedan Consumer Reviews
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Superb for the price
chinds, 02/22/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car handles great. I have the sports package with 17" wheels. It kicks the crud out of my 2001 Jetta Wolfberg Edition in terms of handling. Though 160 hp is adequate, the Mazda3 S would be an absolute kick in the pants if you could squeeze another 20hp out of it. I'm sure the aftermarket will make that possible within the next year. Over all, this car is a great value for what you get, and real fun to drive.
Fun, Stylish, and Cheaper than a BMW
Lots O'TestDrives, 05/31/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I test drove a lot of cars before deciding on the Mazda 3 S - including Imprezas (RS not WRX), Jettas, Altimas, Acura RSX, Civics, and Corollas. It had by far the best combination of style, quality, FUN, and practicality of the cars I drove. The RSX was as fun to drive but not as practical. The Jetta (1.8T)had a little more pep, but didn't handle as well and was missing the quality feel on the inside. The Altima was disappointing - the 5 speed didn't feel solid like the Mazda. Go with the S with 5 speed for the most fun. I actually look forward to driving to work in this car! AC blows cold all the time for me - I'm in hot & sunny AZ.
The experience
Kodiak_sniper, 05/17/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Car handles/feels the same at 80 as 55 in slow traffic < 20mph you can here emgine fan turns on and off. stearing wheel does not telescope far enough for longer legged drivers. In tight curves at higher speeds on rough road, front tires feel like they are bouncing off the road like quick small finger tapping. Engine feels like it's dragging at lower speeds < 35mph
great
hockeyplaya1, 02/14/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
this car is GREAT it has the must have feeling to it and its very fun to drive!
Woohoo :)
ABallinger, 05/18/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've only had my Mazda3 for 5 days now, but I am in love. I researched the car for a few months and thought I would have another year before I had to purchase, but my older car died and it was a perfect excuse, and I couldn't be happier. I got it all (leather/moonroof/6-in-dash- CD/spoiler/etc) for only 400 over invoice.. out the door for under $19k. It drives SO well.. 5sp manual.. great acceleration, great pricing, great handling, great everything! :)
Brand new Mazda 3 -- had it for 2 weeks
thornwell, 01/07/2004
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I test drove the Civic, Corolla, Sentra, Golf, Jetta and 2003 Protege. This was the best package I found for the price. The ride is very nice, and not jelly-like (see Honda Civic base model).
BUY THIS CAR!!!
SpeedyJG, 02/14/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great engine. Beautiful handling. Nice ride. EXCELLENT for the price! I bought this to replace my Protege. VERY happy with this car.
My Mazda 3
PinkieDAE, 06/02/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my car. It's white with a spoiler and a sports package is a must. Bigger rims make the difference. It's so reliable and good for gas! Rated number 9 by Edmonds. No one has it yet, so I dont feel like I own a civic & 900 others do too! Being orginal is better.
Very close to loving it
tiredofmanual, 05/25/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Mazda did a great job making this car feel quite German on the highway. It's a quality that is very hard to define, but those that have driven good German cars know what I'm talking about. This car is composed, quiet, and confident at high speeds. I unfortunately cannot say that I wholeheartedly love it. I have rattles in my doors that the dealership "can't" hear. My brakes sound terrible in the morning, and I think the rear pads stick. At low RPMs the engine sounds like a 20 year old Toyota that hasn't been maintained well. It's not until you push it that it actually sounds nice.
Mazda3
LDW, 02/15/2004
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this car!
Great car, a couple small problems
mlh, 05/20/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've owned my car for about 6 months now and it is really fun to drive.
Just a test drive......
bearcatsvc, 01/10/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The test drive was very nice. The dealer was a little pushy. I have just begun to search for a new car and this one might be it. The Mazda Symbol on the front and rear of the car is absolutly huge, tone it down Mazda. Radio was kind of weak, the shift were not as crisp as in the 6 but the clutchs pick up position was better. The handling was sweet tight but not quite as good as the out going protege. It better than the protege in someways, more of the same in others.
niko's
nikolas, 05/21/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
awesome compact car
Amazing Buy
jslnlb, 02/17/2004
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought the M3i to replace a 96 Honda Accord EX. It's faster, more frugal, and handles better than the Accord, for $4K less than what I paid for the Accord in 96. It's quiet and solid though not as smooth as the Accord. It has many more features than the Accord had, including side curtain airbags, 6- disc CD changer, Tilt/telescoping wheel, steering wheel mounted radio controls. I test drove other compact cars before purchasing the M3i. I believe the M3i is the best in it's class.
Style that seriously turns heads
ammo990, 02/23/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I got this car for my birthday the week it came out, and I love it. Its style is very unique and modern, the craftsmanship is great, as is the performance. I truly belive this car is worth more than the price it is selling for.
Zoom-Zoom!
Car Buff Steve, 06/05/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have the 2.3 S sedan for a month now and love it. I agree with one of the other consumers who wrote about the rear body refinement needed. Looking at the car from the rear is does look very high, but all the other angles look great. This car turns heads as it is new and different. Great looking car and fun to drive.
Drives Like a Go-Kart
corkheadstinks, 05/26/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car has twice the character of the others in its class. Reliability has been great (so far) and the build quality solid. On top of that, it's a blast to drive!
About Time
doubleO, 02/17/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have been looking for a vehicle for 6 months. Late last year I saw a picture of the Mazda 3. I waited, and it was worth the wait. I am a previous civic owner. The 3 had a lot to live up to. It has so far. I have only had the car for a week, but I cannot express the positive reaction I have. If you are looking for a car that has the looks, feel, and personality this is it. You feel comfort and style in a simple but very effective car. It seems that is was designed to fit someone in a real world.
Excellent Car
Mazda 3 Driver, 05/29/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my Mazda 3s 2 months ago and could not be happier. As a first time car owner i could not be more pleased with my purchase. The car drives smoothe, looks sharp, and is comfortable.I read on this site that the seats/leg room can be uncomfortable, but I feel that is a matter of who drives the car.I am 5'9" and have no problems with the seats/leg room.I can see someone taller having problems as there isn't much room left for someone much taller.It runs at 90 mph (dont tell anyone i drive that fast) the same as it does at 55. You can easily lose track of how fast you are going in this car.
One Great car for the money
Mazda3_4_me, 01/11/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A few months back i walked in to Lithia Mazda of Fresno, California and purchased a 2004 Mazda 3s. Since then it has been that greatest car i have ever purchased. I love the way it looks inside and out. It reminds me very much or my old BMW 325i. I also cant seem to stop driving it. I love this car a would rate this car a 10.0
M3
John70, 06/01/2004
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It is a great car
Best Car on the Road
AmberB, 02/22/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my Mazda 3! It's the best car I've ever owned. I plan to drive it until the wheels fall off.......if that will ever happen!?
Nice Ride
ciris12, 06/01/2004
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I am very happy with my Mazda3, it is very smooth and comfortable. Gas mileage is great specially these days. Overall is a nice looking car.
Possibly the best car I ever owned!!!
Zooming in TN, 06/08/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned my Velocity Red 3 for about 3 weeks now and I couldn't be happier. I have owned Honda's for the past 10 years, but just got bored with the unimpressive styling. This car is so much fun to drive and I really haven't noticed too much loss of power from a V6 to a 4-cyclinder, or maybe it's because I like this car too much to care!
Northof50
Northof50, 06/02/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car reminds me of the BMW2002 when it came out x years ago. Modern, stylish, latest tech, ex. performance, reliability, economy. 90% of you have no clue what I mean. Anyway, the only other seriously considered was a VW Jetta, but it was 2.5K more; only 115 hp, made in Mexico and plain looks dated. Corolla too dull; Honda same- same; Nissan not in the game at this price.
Close to a perfect 10!
ppdiablo, 02/22/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a great car for the money. I got it loaded and out the door with tax and license for 21,000.Great looks with great performance.Don't know what's up with the gas milage.I only getting 22 at best.Even with the bad gas milage I love this car...fun to drive and would recommend to anyone.
Sweet Ride
steed, 06/05/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Nice Car, A TOTAL G-RIDE, great torque
Powerful, Good Looking, and Economical!
coleman97, 01/13/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I drove the Civic LX, and Corolla LE. Neither of them shifted smoothly, were underpowered, and weren't fun to drive or look at. Also drove the Subaru WRX, and I actually prefered driving the Mazda 3. The Mazda 3 is the most fun car that I've driven in years! It also happens to get great mileage and the base model comes loaded with more stuff than the Civic or Coirolla, and at 160 hp, it has plenty of power. It's also rock solid on the road, and handles great. I drove the Protege also, and this is a totally different car, much improved. Too early to judge reliability yet, but with the same engine and trans. as the Mazda 6, I'm expecting it to be good.
love it
ccato, 06/05/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
love it the new mazda 3.....it has been a godsend
Great little sports sedan
M3Believer, 02/24/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've always been a muscle car and truck guy but after living in England for 4 years I learned to appreciate other kinds of vehicle. And the Mazda3 is one. It's fun, comfortable, quick, and feels more expensive than it is. The engine pulls hard for a 4 banger and is smooth as butter up to the redline. The 5spd has a short throw and you never have a problem finding the right gear. Seats are firm, yet supportive and the dash is beautiful. The best out there in it's class. And I know, I've driven them all. Love this car. But remember kids, just say NO to autos. This is a drivers car. Can't wait for aftermarket.
nice little car!
lumpy, 06/08/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I'm very pleased with the purchace of this vehicle. Very solidly built little car. the only concerns I'm having with it is 1) A/C is very weak. 2) passengers side front window makes loud pop noise when window is raised to top just as its closing. 3) rear wheel brake dust is very bad.
More Room, Less Zoom Zoom
No Sour Grapes, 04/15/2005
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I gave up the car after 6800mi. I'm 5'10 & in good shape but I couldn't find a comfortable driving position. The two lane country road I tested it on proves what winner Mazda has-quick, nimble and loaded with features on much costlier cars. But the center stack flairs out at the bottom and the legroom under the dash was too crowded for me on my 45 min daily commute. No combination of seat/steering wheel adjustments yielded a good fit. I replaced a 626 with the 3s, maybe I should have gone for the Mazda6 but reliability concerns and the V6 kept me away. If you're used to the legroom of a midsized sedan be aware that the seating in the 3s takes some getting used to. I decided to give it up.
The Class-Leader
Eliot Rebensdorf, 01/17/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought a 2.3 litre model with 4-Speed Sport AT automatic early this month and so far the car is excellent. The engine has great performance in low rpm range and you get greatly rewarded when traveling into the upper rpm range. The interior design and execution is almost perfect. The gauges are great to look at and easy to read. The dash is simple and offers unique immulating features. The only complaint is cheapish plastics scattered throughout the cabin, but for this price, who cares? The exterior looks are fabulous and the 17-inch wheel s and tyres make the car handle just like our BMW. Its a great car. Without a doubt, the class leader.
nice car
silverwilson, 02/24/2004
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The Mazda 3 is a very comfortable,exciting car. This car is a step ahead in design and offers the quiet smooth ride,usually found in more expensive luxury cars. The buying experience was smooth. I recommend getting several quotes and having the deal nearly done online. Then go into the dealership and sign the paperwork.
Mazda 3s
Galleta16, 06/03/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased a mazda s 3 back in april, since then I have been loving the car! the interior and exterior is just beautiful, the trunk is full of space and the car is just a blast to drive, for the price its a 5 start to me!!
The best ever
Frank Ortiz, 06/09/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Interior & exterior design Mazda did what every cool person has been doing to their cars for year, You really have to try really hard to make the Mazda 3S look better than it already looks. These guys are genius
Zoom-Zoom too
MyNewCar, 02/23/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Love this car, I did a lot of research, a lot of test drives. This car is the cream of the crop.
The new standard!
Rob B., 06/03/2004
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had mine since May 14 and it never ceases to impress me. The Mazda rips through curves like a sport sedan and gets plenty of power from the 2.0 liter enginge regardless of transmission. The automatic shifts quickly but I mostly use the manual mode for better fuel economy. Some will find the ride too firm but I prefer to feel the road. Fit and finish is excellent and the controls are very well designed. Speed sensing steering is standard (gets firmer as you go faster. The ABS/side air bags/side air curtains package is a step above the norm for this class and is packaged with things most drivers want anyways (requires air conditioning and power switches).
Zoom Zoom w/ No Guilt
indigolane, 06/11/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The Mazda 3 is sporty, sophisticated and hot all at once. Even light on the gas, you can fly. The steering console wraps around you with the feel of a more expensive sports model. Someone who likes to drive must have designed this model, cause it is a joy.
Zoom-Zoom-Zoom
Jays98978, 01/16/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just like the commercials say this new Mazda 3 goes zoom zoom zoom. I Love my car. I test drove both engine types and found out that the 2.0L has a little drag so I decided to go with the 2.3L and was very pleased. The car has great suspension and great turning. The driver side has plenty of room but if youre tall like me (6'0ft) then it's difficult for a passenger to sit behind you. The interior is hi-tech and flashy. Overall the car is great and fun to drive. Expect to pay close to sticker price because this car is selling quicker then Starbucks coffee. Enjoy!
Zoom Zoom Dude!
Mechanix2001, 03/12/2006
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I was looking for an economical car with some kick. I was not interested in driving a Civic or Corolla. There reliable cars but so unoriginal; I like something different. My friend and cousin both have one and they rave about it constantly, so I had the chance to get a good test drive, and I agreed with them. From driving an old pick-up the gas mileage was a great difference. The best thing I noticed about it is the handling, I mean if you like driving, like I do, you'll enjoy whipping around the back roads with ease. The interior is very sporty and the seats grip you like a racing style seat. Anyways, GO have a test drive, for the money you won't be disappointed!
You can't beat the value of this car!!
kelly418m, 06/11/2004
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Overall, this car provides you with the best value for your money!! It has great gas mileage and drives so smoothly. Also, I must mention that the body and interior of the car is very up to date and really makes the car look nice. If you researching cars right now, I believe you will not have to search any more because the Mazda3 has everything you need and want, all in an economical, yet, trendy car!!
sweet
deeze, 06/13/2004
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
great car for speed racers
great car
yee, 02/27/2004
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
great acceleration, going 60 too soon. Have the optional seats w/lumbar support and works great; very nice arms out driving position. Head rest are really that, not some funky heat restraint that only looks good but doesn't support my head. The 16 in wheels and low profile tires looks and rides good. Very nice back seat area with head rest; just like a luxury car w/o the high cost, only thing that is needed in the back to complete the luxury car status would be a folding armrest. Handling and braking is pretty good but have not really explore the limits of these two areas because the car is still pretty new- only about 2 weeks old.
its good drivin
mikal5555, 06/14/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
i just got my mazda 3 s its a very fine pieace of machinery when you drive this car you automatically feel like you are driving a much more expensive car it really is a zoom zoom experience.
comfort, conviniense and performance
Atif Siddiqui, 06/13/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Best compact sedan for the price. Comfort and conviniense with performance haven't seen in one car before.
Great Car
panch34, 01/18/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just got this car about a week ago and I cannot wait to drive it some more. The exterior look surpasses anyting in its class as well as the interior look. For the driving part, it is a lot of fun. Great acceleration combine with tight steering make this car a joyride
All in one package with sensible fun!
Renee, 03/23/2006
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It's a great drive, sometimes a little to much fun. Very fast -- the Zoom Zoom is so true! The mileage is good; it gets 300 or so miles to the tank. With the price of gas it could be better. I drive mostly highway on a daily basis and was hit from behind by a car going about 65 miles an hour. All I could think of was my cars condition. When I got out and looked I was in shock to see almost no evidence that I was even hit. The other cars air bags were all deployed but none of mine were. This is a strong built vehicle . i got back in and drove away like nothing even happened. The only problem with this car is the air conditioner, defroster and heat. None of them seem to get going in a timely matter.
Buy of the Century
BByron, 06/15/2004
2004 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought a fully equipted 4drS in lieu of the Mini Cooper I lusted after for years. This little 3 just fits, I'm 6'3". It looks great, handles like a dream, rides very comfortably, turns tighter than the Mini and has a longer wheel base than my old Mazda 626. It runs on regular fuel and is just plain fun to drive. It has all the features of cars two or three times its cost. I have GPS navigation and its both fun and practical. The Mini was fun but try hitting a speed hump at the posted limit and you'll take the 3 as your daily driver. Fun and practical and cheap. Hard to beat.
2004 Mazda 3 Review
Watersdeep, 06/16/2004
2004 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Fun car to drive. Some things can be fixed for the 2005's but for the price I payed i can't complain to much. Overall the I love the car. Great craftsmanship both inside and out. Not many people have discovered the Mazda 3 so their are not many on the road just yet and thats one thing i like as well.