Used 2005 Mazda 3 Hatchback Consumer Reviews
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Best ride under 20 k
I have owned it for 5 months now with 7500 miles on it. I am highly satisfied with it. It's more like a cheap Audi A3/A4 than a compact. There is attention to detail in every part of this car. This is the only compact car to have a personality. I am surprised to see people buying Jettas paying 5k more instead of the 3. I found the 3 to be better in all respects except the interior. Go for it.
zoom zoom
Overall fun car to drive, you can feel the quality thats built into this vehicle. has a lot of options not offered by competitors of small wagons.
- SP23 Special Edition 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $2,9991,871 mi away
Visibility driving/Acceleration/Cargo
NOTE: Vehicle is less than one month old. My issues may stem from being the owner of a new, small car -- having switched from a 2 door coupe, larger American vehicle to this new small, economical car. Front visibility is very good, but side (from 2nd row seats back) and rear visibility is not. Large pillars in rear near hatch make for small windows. That, coupled with tall headrests, makes seeing other cars while changing lanes a hit or miss proposition. Acceleration is somewhat sluggish before vehicle warms up. Also, there seems to be some sluggishness when vehicle changes gears. Cargo space is pretty good when rear seats are folded flat. W/ seats up, cargo space is limited
cheap thrills
I was looking for a small wagon, but what sold me on this car was how much more fun it was to drive than its competitors (Subaru, Scion, Toyota). Steering, braking, throttle response and shifting remind me of a good sports car. I replaced the stock tires with Toyo TS-1 ultra performance ones and the handling got even better. Otherwise the car seems solid but unspectacular: engine is smooth, linear and quick, but no scorcher; ride is quite firm; seats are sturdy & supportive, but plain; fit, finish & ergonomic design are very good. Audio and AC good for economy class. Rear seats tight but serviceable. Cargo area adequate for a big dog. Highway mileage 35 at 65mph. Nice dash.
car of my own
The mazda 3 has never disappointed me in the 5 months of owning it, easily the best car I have driven in terms of handling, performance on and off the highway, and overall style.