See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Zoom Zoom, indeed!
I've owned an '89 Toyota Tercel, an '02 Chevy Prism and now the Mazda. Love. It. It's got a lot longer gear ratio than most 4-cylinder cars and at highway speeds can very capably accelerate past everyone else who's not having as much fun in their car. The interior has an excellent design, the exterior looks fluid and lean and all of the mechanics seem above average on dependability and ergonomics. I might never buy a different car.
so-so for the 3
I thought the 3 was an awesome car, very cute and sporty, but at 3559 miles, it needed a new engine, due to spinning a bearing. Very disappointing! The dealership was not that great at helping me through the situation. I am looking at selling it, because I can no longer trust it.
- s 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $2,99585 mi away
- s SedanMSRP: $3,950122 mi away
- i SedanMSRP: $6,999194 mi away
Awesome!
I have absolutely loved this car! It is fun to drive, pulls uturns on a dime and is so comfortable that 3 people for 15 hours in the car was no problem. I am so happy with this purchase!
My first car
I got my Mazda3 hatchback about one month ago, and so far this car has been amazing. I have not yet tried it on the highway so I can't comment on the MPG there, however the MPG I am averaging in the city is about 19-20. This car is easy to wash, fun to drive, and has tons of get-up-and-go. I would have given it a 10.0 rating had it not been for the false advertising of the MPG city. There is a ton of room in the back, in fact just the other day I fit my entire drum set packed up in boxes in the back of this car.
Teething problems ?
Sport badge should be dropped as handling is rather poor. Believe it can be attributed to the electro hydraulic power assisted steering. Just doesn't suit my driving style, really disappointed !(have now covered 14000 miles) Steering creeking and growning for second time despite mod. Road noise excessive and distracting. Wheels tend to track the slightest rutts in the road surface. Air con lacking. Radio reception poor. Accessories extortionately priced. Drivers seat beginning to lose support and fabric baggy dispite me only being of average weight.
Miata-class fun, Audi A4 practicality
Plenty of creature comforts (heated leather, Bose, Xenons, ABS, steering wheel controls)...looks like a little BMW 325. I wanted something japanses to replace my service issues on my last three Audis and two Passats. This car is smaller and less expensive but even more fun to drive. Strong engine (w/5- spd) loses steam at 65 mph+ 9great around town baut looses punch on highway. SP23 was ltd edition and I have not seen another in 3 months of ownership. I would not have considered its "peer economy" competitors. Buy it for style & handling - not price. SP23 thinks its all grown up. A relative bargain for a "euro" sedan. Combination of Jetta/A4 and Miata. Practical fun with reliability.
ZOOM-ZOOM
I've owned the car for ten months, so far a pleasant experience. Great value for the money. Definitely a set of snow tires in the winter solves any traction problems.This car is fun to drive.
BEST car in class
Easily best car for the money (reliability to be seen). The car is very quick with excellent handling with 205/55R16 tires. I opted for the 2.0 for the mileage (28 MPG city driving on 1700 miles). Very nice and roomy interior. I will echo the complaints about the weak A/C, and the remote trunk opening, but they are not show stoppers. Seats are a little hard and the doors do not auto-lock when the car is started.
Inconsistent build, very underwhelming
Bought this car used with around 91K miles on it. Based on reviews, I thought it would be a good commuter vehicle and get good gas mileage. The bad: I mostly drive on highways, but haven't been able to break 23mpg. Apparently people can get upwards of 30, however driving like an old grandpa still gets me a whopping 23mpg. I even threw in an OBDII scanner connected to my phone and what the sensors gather for outputs on mileage is not what the odometer and tank show. The brakes are odd in that I slid once and the ABS activated and now they're spongy and very unresponsive (no leaks from the pump or lines though). The engine compartment looks like a 3 year old tried to go fishing and you get to untangle the mess of cables and wires (try changing the air filter in this car and you'll understand). The factory radio is AWFUL so if you're planning to buy this, set aside a few hundred dollars to replace the deck and speakers. The windshield wipers have one intermittent speed, which I am shocked by. The good: It's a fun car to drive when it's working right. The engine is responsive and passing cars is a breeze. The handling is superb and because the wheels are placed at the corners, parking in tight spaces is easy. The drivers seat is comfortable and has a good amount of headroom. The car is fairly quiet, even when blasting down the highway at 80mph. The trunk in the hatchback has several dividers and below deck storage compartments. The layout is all straight forward and easy to use. All in all, I would not buy this car again. The performance and handling perks can be found in many other cars which are better built and get better mileage. The stereo sounds so awful in this car, the engineer who developed it should be banished from earth. I was hopeful for more from Mazda but apparently was sadly mistaken.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Has everything for little money
This car had everything I was looking for: wonderful manual transmission that is extremely fun to drive, enough oomph, horsepower, great gas mileage, cool looks, plenty of space for the family of four, great value for the dollar. I still love it.
Think before you buy
Car handles great and has some nice options that are included. Power is lacking and intermittent - not what I expected from a 2.3L engine. Posted mpg on the 2.3 wagon is a joke - I average 20mpg. A few issues and the Mazda dealers don't want to deal with it and Mazda Customer Care line is useless also.
Not Satisfied
Seats are very uncomfortable on trips over 4 hours. Steering is too light, comes off center too readily and has too much oversteer. Switches are not easy to operate or intuitive. Rear cargo area has very limiting width. Dashboard displays are gimmicky. Engine, transmission and A/C are rather noisy. Owner's manual is lacking on important details but abounds with information on overly elaborate audio system. Fuel consumption is mediocre. Clutch engagement is not easy from a start, especially on hills. Gear selection is difficult. I have driven manual transmissions for 40 years, this is the worst. Sorry I bought this car and will dump it in 3-4 years. It is highly over rated.
Style but serious flaws
I just bought the 2005 Special Edition Mazda3, with SP2 Security Package, Moonroof and Navigation. I have decidedly mixed feelings; am actually considering selling (and have had less than 2 weeks). Why? Despite researching and reading all I could, you don't really know until you buy. 1. There are many posts on the internet saying this car is awful in the snow... the worst they've driven in 40 years... an embarrassment. Some say it's the tires, some the wheels and tires. Who knows. 2. Fuel economy is poor -- especially with the automatic transmission. Lots of complaints here too. Like in the low 20's. 3. Consumer Reports just dropped it. 4. Nav system is featureless.
Well Done!
I have an 05 Mazda 3 S and I just hit 170,000 miles. I purchased my Mazda new in Nov of 04. I am a rough on the vehicles I use and I needed something that could handle my "abuse". The Mazda 3 stood up to the test. I have literally run the engine to its limits. Note that even though I am bad about performing regular maintenance, the Mazda still survived and continued to run well. I thought in the beginning that this vehicle may not handle me as an owner. I am proud to say Bravo Mazda 3! Well done!
Great Outside, Cheap Inside
I have owned this Mazda for 3 years. Its a good car. Engine is quite and peppy. Very reliable. Just add gas, change to oil regulary and go. The thing that gets me about it the cheap and tough to clean interrior. In typical Japanese automotive fashion, its cheap and plastic. The cloth on the sests attract any dirt and I always have to use a sweater shaver on them to get rid of the fuzzballs the fabric makes. The fabric trim on the door came loose. (Repaired under warranty) The carpet is difficult to vacuum, hold objects like velcro. The air conditioning could use more power. The horn needs a boost too. The windshield wipers need a intermittent adj. The tires wore out at 30,000 miles.
I love my 3
This car is a blast. It has about every feature you could want standard.It also has the best horsepower to gas mileage ratio. I think I'm gonna buy another one.
I LOVE this car
I bought this car in college over 5 years ago and put 85,000 miles on it - no mechanical problems whatsoever. It's extremely reliable, inexpensive to maintain, handles well, plenty of storage area, and has good gas mileage.
Mazda 3s
The car is a great car for the $. I only have one real knock against this car; it has too much road noise. Mazda really needs to work on this - it should be a simple solution and would dramatically improve the driving pleasure!
Mazda 3
Everyone of my friends are jealous of my car. It's cute, reasonably priced, and safe, PLUS it drives like a dream!!
Loving my new car!!!
I just bought my 4 door Mazda 3s, and I am loving the drive. I find myself looking forward to driving to and from work because the drive is smooth and effortless. My Mazda 3s has such a luxurious inside and out that it has been compared to some models of Lexus and BMW. For someone that is on a tight budget, I couldn't ask for a better car.
Great Car/Great Value
Bought the SP23 model with manual 5sp. Great fun to drive and has been 100% reliable. 31 MPG on the highway, going 80 MPH (yes, we can do that in Montana). Excellent room, particulary for tall drivers. Rear seat not bad. Seats provide good back and leg support. Relatively quiet until you hit around 70MPH and then you hear more road noise.
this was the best decision i've ever made
this car is amazing...it meets my every need....it goes fast looks good and can hold all my junk!!!!!! its the real meaning of zoom-zoom because thats all i do!!!!!!!
Awesome Ride!!
I LOVE this car!! I have not had any problems with it! I bought it used in 2008 I own the 2005 Mazda3 S. I have had it for a little over a year its almost at 49,000 miles. I have a friend who owns an older Mazda626 which has been an awesome car for them which was one of the reasons I actually considered buying it. I had originally wanted to buy a honda accord but I have actually been happier with my Mazda than I think I would have been with the Honda. It was cheaper but I definitely don't believe its cheap quality. Ford makes Mazda and Ford's are usually pretty dependable however this car is like no Ford that I've ever driven.
Exceeded Tough Expectations
I needed a daily driver so I could keep my sports car for the weekend. I didn't really expect the daily driver to be as much fun as the Mazda 3 is. I do believe it's not only the best compact sedan to come out recently, but one of the best overall. I've always been an auto enthusiast so I'm quite picky when I test drive a vehicle. With better than expected acceleration, great gas mileage, low costing insurance, clean looking interior, attractive exterior, you won't do better near this price point.
My Experience with my Mazda 3
The Mazda 3s is as fun to drive as their brand phrase "Zoom-Zoom". Even though this car has only 160hps it is still very fun to drive. The audio system is configured to give you the most of convenience while you are driving this car.
Good times
It's a great car. I have loved every minute of it. The drive is fun and the manual is smooth.
Mazda 3s 5 door BEST in class!
Though I have only owned the car 3 weeks, I am astounded at the quality, performance, styling and value of this car. The car i9s tight and rigid, no rattles, and exits the freeway FLAT. The automatic has a manual shift "tip" option that's great! The 2.3 is the same engine in the Mazda 6 and really MAKES THIS CAR MOVE. This is a sporty, quick, tight car... not an econobox. I agree with the consumer and car magazines.. this car is best in class! Any downsides? Well the car has 17inch low profile tires, so you do feel and hear the road somewhat... but personally I like the feedback and response the tires give me.
This Car saved our lives.
I was recently in a car accident in my new Mazda3. This car was so amazing and so safe (I had the side airbags and ABS option) that we were told by several authorities that it was a miracle that we walked away from the scene, with just bumps and bruises at that! The car was totaled, but we were in very good condition. I owe my life to this car and wouldn't even consider buying a different model now.
A Good Hatchback in the Long Run?
Not quite a Golf GTI GLX (VR6).It's doesn't feel as comfortable, and as responsive as the VW 4th Generation. Yet, the Mazda3 SP23 may be a better car to keep in the longer run with Xenon HID w/ manual leveling control, some rear LEDs, Bose system, automatic front wiper, audio and cruise controls in the steering wheel, and aluminium 2.3L chassis. The car is somewhat customizable with some aftermarket parts, yet may retain better reliability than the Golf IV in the electronic segment. The engine setup is very strange, and maybe good for some user.At 1k rpm to 2k rpm, the car seems to be on extreme saving mode.It's only near 5k rpm where the car STARTS to kick in. The trunk is well organized.
I am amazed!!!
I have been a mustang driver since I have been driving. I chose the mazda3 because of my current job. I do alot of traveling and needed better gas mileage. It is fun to drive, looks great, and with all the sport options it has this car is a real head turner. I am still a mustang guy deep down, but I could get used to this. Mazda hit a home run with this one. With their motto "The Soul of a Sports Car", it makes losing my beloved LEGEND easier.
Nothing compares
Dismissed the Corolla outright because of its appliance-like nature. Civic seemed too unrefined in comparison, and was turned off by so-so reviews of the Cobalt. At this price range, there's nothing that even comes close to the 3. This car is simply superb! The exterior (especially of the hatchback), is distinctive; the interior is comfortable, attractive, and refined. Performance from the smooth 2.3L engine is more than adequate, and it's a joy to row through the gears. Too early to report on fuel economy, but this car begs to be driven hard, so I'm not expecting stellar mileage. Don't take my word for how great this car is - read the reviews by the professionals and test drive it!
Great Car
I've had this car for almost 5 years. During that time I've taken it to the dealers to get fixed twice. One time was so they would tighten the wiper blades and the other was a sensor that was throwing faults. They were both before warranty expired and I haven't had a problem since. I drive 40 miles to work everyday and it does it very well. I've used synthetic fuel since 20K every 7 thousand miles. That may have contributed to the reliability but I doubt it. Mine's a manual transmission too.
I love my Mazda3!
This is my first car ever, my grandparents bought it for me for my 16th birthday, and I absolutely love it! I have the i 4dr Sedan in silver with a manual transmission. I have had so much fun in this car that I never want to drive an automatic or anything other than a Mazda ever again! My brother, who is 6'1, has more legroom in my Mazda3 than he does in his Honda Civic, and the trunk is as big as my dad's Toyota Camry. All of my friends are jealous of the interior that lights up in red, and the chic design of it. I haven't had a single problem with my Mazda3 (other than stalling out when I was learning how to drive the stick). I named my car Dolce, and it really is very sweet!
Best thing ever!!!!!!!!!
I purchased a Mazda 3i about a year ago ,and i love it! Very very fun to drive, and you cannot get all of the same features at a better price. Mine has the power pkg, Moonroof+6CD. I also ordered mine with the tiptronic auto, very cool. Overall I love it would defiently get one again.
Great Car with Little Disappointment!
This was my first new car. I wasn't out for a foreign ride but found it to offer the most bang for the buck. The leather and DVD navigation are "must haves." I get many compliments on this car; two people mistook my car for a BMW. It has class, sportiness, and is very fun to drive. The quality is also spectacular for the price. A few quirks: poor gas mileage for the performance and 4-cylinder. Optional 17" wheels equals bouncier ride & poor winter performance. Also, the interior lights (3) must be turned on individually to light cabin. Great options, stereo, and quality for the cost. No regrets!
My First Car
the mazda 3 is my first car. i've researched many cars and found that the 3 was the best... i browsed honda, toyota, nissan, and mitsubishi but found the mazda the best in style and comfort... i got the fully loaded S, all packages, the 4 speed automatic with sport shift mode, and the color is titanium grey.... the 3 is very roomy compared to its competitors, gas mileage is great, and the performance is great (very smooth pickup and cruise driving)... overall the mazda 3 is the best of the compact market! (to Me)
I love my Mazda3
I decided to buy myself a birthday gift in 2005 and got this car. It had all of the features I wanted and is the best looking hatchback on the market. It is so much fun to drive and has never had a single mechanical issue in 2.5 years! I will drive this car for many many years, even if I could afford a higher performance vehicle. I mean it isn't as much fun to drive as a Lotus Exige S, but for a hatch that can easily fit snowboards (and a bunch of furniture from Ikea) it is the best option!
Very good but not great
I bought this Mazda after trading in my 1999 Protege ES (which I loved)with 110K miles. There are a few things I notice with the 3 that aren't as good as the Protege. First is the stereo. The new one is VERY weak. That was one of the impressive things about the Protege - given that it was a small economy car. Second are small things like the window controls and vanity mirrors. The quality isn't the same. It seems like the new version uses cheaper, flimsy parts. The leather wrapped steering wheel feels like sandpaper. The old one felt great. The AC in this car is extremely weak. I could run it on full blast all day and never get really cold. Back seat is not as roomy.
A Great Car
I have only had my car for a week, but I've never enjoyed driving more! I was looking at a Mini initially, but it was just a little out of my price range. I then found this online, and chose it because of its looks. I'm telling you, Mazda doesn't play when they say Zoom- Zoom! Just to give you a taste of how awesome the gas mileage is: it was filled up and driven 250 miles with the air conditioning on the entire time, and it still had half a tank left in it! Don't take the price for this "beginner" model for granted; you get a lot of bang for your buck. With gas prices as high as they are, I'd recommend this to anyone who wants a car that has plenty of horsepower and is on a tight budget....
Best Bang for the buck
After doing a lot of research I bought mine brand new and after 4 years it still puts a smile on my face. I have no plans to sell this car anytime soon. Mechanically the car has been sound. A couple of sensors had to be replaced under warranty, no big deal. Performs well for 4 door sedan and is a blast to drive on the twisties. Interior is fine for a under 20k car and more than one passenger has commented on the lighting and sleek interior design.
Excellent
I love my Mazda 3. I would buy another one any day. It is a very good car and handles well. I get a lot of complements on how pretty my car is. You really don't see many Mazda 3s on the road. That is also why I love my car.
This car is amazing
I bought my brand new mazda 3 a week ago. So far the car has been amazing. Its such a smooth ride and very sporty. I do suggest putting leather into the car. I did, and it was well worth it.
Believe the hype!
I just picked up my new M3 last night, and it is awesome. While I have not had the chance to really open her up, I could tell just by my ride home that this is a sweet ride. Quite a few of my coworkers have compared it to a BMW 3-series after taking a spin in it. I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone.
Great Car
Great handling and good power. Comfortable and attractive seats, roomy backseat. Cockpit is a little narrow. Quality materials and finish. Cheaper plastic on the lower console is prone to scratching, but it's black. Stereo does sound a little muddy, controls on the steering wheel are a nice touch though. Great trunk space. Tons of fun to drive. This is a drivers' car.
Great Car
It's a great car. I've only had it for a little while and I love it. Very fun to drive. Lots of head and leg room, very comfortable. Sporty looking.
My SECOND Mazda3 in 2 MONTHS!
I bought the Mazda3 s 2.3 in April of '05. Got into a head on collision, and walked away without a scratch. Since my new baby was totaled, I went out and bought a new one, except I bought the Special Edition (SP23). I loved the BOSE system, the Leather and the Heated Seates. Also has 17" Alloys instead of the 16" on the other one. I can't be more happy with this car. It truly is the best car in its class for the value. Holds a corner like it is on rails!
Nice Car
I really enjoy my Mazda 3 it was a graduation present and I'm generally happy with it. I think it's a little smaller as far as seating capacity and trunk space than what I would have liked but it's ok.
Mazda 3 Review
Hot looking car. Extremely fun to drive. Outstanding gas mileage. Great performance from the engine. Comfortable in the front, a little tight in the back. Good storage space for a compact. I get compliments on the outside appearance of the car as well as the interior. Best purchase Ive ever made.
great everything
This is a car for everyone. It's powerful, fast, comfortable, reliable, and looks absolutely great. I have a 2005 black Mazda 3s with 6 CD player, moonroof, spoiler, and ABS package. This car is amazing.
What a beauty!
This is a wonderful car. I compared it to other similar cars in its class (Civics, Jettas, Golfs, Subarus, Corollas) and the M3 stands above all of them. I am elated to have purchased this car!