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Used 2006 Mazda 3 Consumer Reviews

4.9 out of 5 stars
331 reviews

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5 out of 5 stars

WOW!

Saabster27, 03/19/2006
2006 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I just moved to a 2006 Mazda3 GT from a 2002 Saab 9-3 SE with 205 HP, sport suspension and 17-inch wheels. And let me say that beside straight line acceleration, Mazda3 beats the Saab in EVERY category, while priced less than half of the Saab. I also test drove the Audi A4 and and owned a Honda Accord Coupe V6 but those two don't perform better and don't come close to the value offered by a Mazda3 at this price level. The choice was pretty simple for me. And this car far exceeded my expectations after owning it for a month. I can say that I did not have the same feelings about the Saab after owning it for a month!

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4.75 out of 5 stars

The Best Thing on the Road for under 20K

R Benjamin, 02/21/2006
2006 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I did a lot of research on the Mazda3 and boy did it pay off! It has more HP than the Sentra, Elantra and Corolla. It's fun to drive and great on the highway. Mazda did a great job with the interior design (plastics look top notch). I was a little disappointed with the fuel economy. Aside from that, the car rides smooth and it has plenty of passing power for the highway. The sporty design and feel puts it at the top of the class in the economy/compact car segment. Heated leather seats are a huge plus. I also like the leather trim in the doors. I wish they would give you a trial offer for Sirius when I purchased it. I might have been more inclined to keep the service had they done so.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

made driving fun again

motomike, 08/24/2005
2006 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Although I just bought it I can smell potential. Out of the box it handles great, more so than you would expect. I drove all cars in this class and not only was the 3 better, it was thousands less. Leaving money for goodies. Really the only thing wrong with it is even with sport package and 17s it still comes with all-season tires. Take them off asap replace with 205/45/17zr and it sticks like glue. I have nothing but positive things to say. Out of every car I've had this one I'm truly happy with. Drive it, you'll see. For the money nothing even comes close.

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5 out of 5 stars

Reliable, Safe, and a FUN CAR TO OWN!

WB3Jay, 10/22/2010
2006 Mazda 3 s Touring 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought this car brand new (coming out of a Mazda Millenia) with 7 miles on it. 5 years and 120,000+ miles later I am still a proud owner. This is one reliable car with nothing needing replacing with the exception of normal wear and tear items (I went 115k on the original front brake pads!). I've been through 2 sets of tires and 2 rear brake jobs that's it. It is so much fun to drive and that means a lot to someone who spends a lot of time in their car. Gas mileage has been around 25 mpg.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

Great little car

thetejon, 03/01/2006
2006 Mazda 3 s Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've put about 4600 miles on this car, and I love it. All my complaints so far are pretty trivial - a little too much engine noise, the interior clock isn't that accurate . . . nothing to keep you from buying the car. Before buying, I read reviews that mentioned excessive brake noise - I test drove a couple of 3's, and the brake noise only occurred in the automatic. I was really unimpressed with the automatic - it felt sluggish compared to the manual. I get good mileage - average 23-27 MPG driving in traffic in Northern Virginia, and I don't drive it gently. I averaged over 31 for the tank during a weekend trip spent doing a lot of driving on country highways.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

I love this car.

Hannah, 03/08/2006
2006 Mazda 3 s Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've had this car for only three days now and I am infatuated with it. When I'm not driving it, I am wishing I were. I love doing errands now! It handles so well. The steering is incredibly responsive and the brakes are excellent. It feels like a much more expensive car than it actually is. Mazda did a fantastic job. One complaint - the ride over a bumpy road can be pretty rough. Also, if you turn on the lights during the day, you cannot see the numbers on the dials because of the electroluminescent lights. Other than these tiny things, it's great! I'm cutting this review short so I can go drive.

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5 out of 5 stars

Better than the Audi A4

Mazda Lover, 09/29/2005
2006 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

It's hard to describe the quality of the suspension without driving one yourself. The fit and finish is world class. The price point is beyond anything else currently on the market. My husband's last 2 cars have been brand new Mercedes and he is accustomed to a quality ride and he feels that the Mazda 3 rides just as well. The xenon lights and Sirius radio are just two examples of the thoughtful features that were added to this car. If you are looking for a vehicle in this price range this car should be seriously considered.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Most fun car I've ever owned

allfiredup, 12/27/2005
2006 Mazda 3 s Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is my first Mazda, after driving Hondas for the past 14 years. The exceptional handling, performance and design of the 3 won out over the improved fuel economy of the Honda. I feel like I'm driving a $30k car, not an $18k one. Everyone who rides in or drives it, loves it!

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5 out of 5 stars

BMW couldn't make a car better for the money

ksmo, 10/03/2005
2006 Mazda 3 s Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've just started commuting 50 miles a day, so I decided to trade in the 7 year old Dodge Stratus. While looking for one car to manage a commute, a car seat, and a yearning for my old 86' GTI, I drove my sister-in-laws Mazda 3s sedan. Great car, but not quite right with an automatic. I finally test drove a 3s wagon with a manual and fell in love. This is a better GTI than the current VW is! It makes no sacrifices in its pursuit of greatness. I bought my red one that same day. Test drive one asap. (But get financed first!).

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5 out of 5 stars

A Best Kept Secret

Thrilled, 04/12/2009
2006 Mazda 3 i Touring 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

It has been 3 years, and it is one of the best decisions I ever made.Who would have thought that an inexpensive grocery-getter (which is why I bought it) would handle like a $30K-$40K car? It does not perform like a high end performance car because it is not supposed to. The 2.0 liter 4-banger is loads of fun because I can keep my foot in it if I want to play. For my normal commute I average 29-33 mpg mixed driving. on the Freeway, it's around 37 mpg. But the HANDLING!!! OMG! This has got to be one of the best-kept secrets in America! Would I like more power? Sure, but not at the cost of mpg. The fit and finish on this little gem is excellent. And for $18K out the door! I'm a happy camper.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Another good Mazda

Tim, 10/13/2005
2006 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Had a Mazda Protege when it came out in 1995; the car was just ok to use. Wife wanted another Mazda, so we got the Mazda3 and it is by far the best compact car that we have ever owned.

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5 out of 5 stars

Excellent Car in its Class

Bryan, 12/27/2005
2006 Mazda 3 i Touring 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I purchased a 2006 Mazda3 after looking at all of its competitors in its class. For the money I paid, I really feel like I got a steal. This is a fun car to drive and it looks and feels like I paid a lot more than I did. I highly recommend this car to anyone looking for a great car at a great price.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Fun to Zoom Zoom

Randy, 11/01/2005
2006 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I can't begin to tell you how impressed I am with this car, for its price group it has the features of a much more expensive car without the high end maintenance bills. It's fun to drive and it definitely turns heads, I often see people trying to get a look at the emblem to see "what it is" as it does not look like an economy car but more so a high end Euro coupe.

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5 out of 5 stars

2006 Mazda 3

Michele, 07/11/2010
2006 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The driving of this car is great, handles curves very well and is all around a very fun car to drive. Gets great gas mileage. First Mazda we have owned but it wont be the last. I purchased this car from Gerald Jones Mazda in Augusta, Ga. and used Charlie Royal. He was impressed me with all the ins and outs of the car and made the process very easy. I highly recommend him and this dealership to any one looking for a new or used Mazda. I can definitely say it wont be our last Mazda.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Follow up review

kevivoe, 11/10/2005
2006 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

1st tank was 23 MPG. Our 2nd tank was 26.6 MPG. Our third is looking like 25 MPG. I would have to say so far this car is not quite meeting expected 25/31 MPG but it still has some more miles to go before break in.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

All Around Winner

SupportTech, 04/22/2009
2006 Mazda 3 s Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Nearly 3 years and 38000 miles later this car still puts a smile on my face every time I get behind the wheel. You simply won't find a better balance of economy and performance in it's class. Interior fit and finish have been excellent with the only beef being a floormat that has worn out already. Manual Tranny and brakes are top notch in operation and feel. Worst mileage: 26 mpg. Best Mileage: 33 mpg Suspension may be a little rough for the sensitive, but the dividends pay off in the handling department. If you want a plush cruiser this is not the car for you. This vehicle is built for those who like to be involved and take pleasure in the driving experience.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Good Car for the money

SanMan, 11/03/2005
2006 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I sold my 2004 Camry Solara and bought this one. It was a step down as far as luxury is concerned but this car is too much fun to drive. Also it has the utility of a full size car. I was surprised by the trunk space for such a small car. I absolutely enjoy driving it.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Excellent overall

guinzuz, 06/11/2008
2006 Mazda 3 i Touring 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The fit an finish on the car is outstanding. Both exterior and interior styling are top-notch. Car is sporty to drive even with the smaller 2.0. Very practical and reliable. Driving position is very comfortable. Visibility is excellent. I would highly recommend this car.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

2nd Mazda 3

Sam, 11/11/2005
2006 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is my 2nd Mazda 3 5 door. I traded my previous 2004 model that had 33,000 miles for a tricked out one. I thought the 2004 model was a nice ride, but the 2006 seems to be smoother and quieter. Plus the Grand Touring upgrade with Nav System is very nice. Options I would expect on more expensive cars.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Zoom Zoom

Emilio Jones, 01/03/2006
2006 Mazda 3 s Touring 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've only had the car for 2 weeks, and I like the car a lot. One thing I would point out is the small trunk on the sedan and high back-end spoiler. Maybe I was spoiled my a mid-size car. Outside of that, I'm incredibly happy with my purchase. For the price, you can't get anything fully loaded and with the size engine. The Civic is close, but do you want to be like everyone else? Tremendous value! I was looking at the Mazda 6, but you can get basically the same car for $10K less, much better value.

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5 out of 5 stars

Zoom Zoom Is Definitely True

Scott B, 11/11/2005
2006 Mazda 3 s Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I traded in my SUV (gas prices too high) for my Mazda 3s Touring Wagon. I needed to get better gas mileage since my commute is 70 miles each day. I fell in love with the car the minute I sat in the driver's seat and drove out of the parking lot. The price was great for all the features you get on the S Touring Model. I cannot wait to see what they do to the Mazda 3 over the next few years. They are moving in the right direction with their line of cars. It was difficult to find the Pearl White S Touring Wagon in CT. They had to get the car from NY. This makes it a little difficult to bargain since there is only one car within 4 states. The dealer did not want to take much off price.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Excellent Car at a great price

doru31, 03/07/2006
2006 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Excellent handling and suspension. Good braking with all disk brakes. Power and torque is a little low; could use more power like 180hp and 180lbs. torque. Interior and exterior styling is great with good quality. I like the side turn indicators which many cars don't have. Fully loaded for $21K (sunroof, leather, xenon, heated seats, clear led tail lights, 17 inch rims, 6-CD BOSE). Great car at a great price. I highly recommend it.

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5 out of 5 stars

Best Small Car by Far

Mike G., 03/14/2006
2006 Mazda 3 i Touring 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

We've had our car for about three weeks and couldn't be happier with it. The performance and comfort is great for a small car. Interior is roomy and the controls are well laid out. For the money you can't beat this car. Mazda really did a great job.

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5 out of 5 stars

Love to Drive a Mazda

Celtblood, 11/30/2005
2006 Mazda 3 i Touring 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This car is awesome. I love Mazdas since I owned a MX3 and the Mazda 3 holds the mark very well. I always want to look at the car and get in for a drive. I recommend the purchase.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

Zoom-Zoom, no gas.

jacobgeshio, 01/11/2006
2006 Mazda 3 i Touring 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Excellent performing car. I love driving it. It handles great, it is fast and looks awesome. But the fuel economy is horrible I have driven the car 1500 miles and I am averaging 22-24 MPG. I would recommend the manual. Mazda automatics don't get good gas mileage. I test drove a Benz C230 with the Kompressor and enjoyed driving this car much more.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Econo Box be gone!

TSK, 12/02/2005
2006 Mazda 3 i Touring 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

In outside sales, I drive a lot. Had a truck, but 15MPG was getting old. The Mazda 3 is a "must see" if you are looking for an econo-box driving expense crossed with a compact euro-luxo feel. At one time I sold BMW and while they are wonderful automobiles, the Mazda gives the BMW 3-series a run for the money. The Mazda 3 is worth EVERY penny when compared to a BMW. Suggestion, buy the Mazda 3 and buy a BMW emblem. Needless to say, I am very pleased.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

I love my car!

lovemycar, 12/31/2007
2006 Mazda 3 s Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Every time I drive my car, I feel like it is the first time I have driven it--and this is after owning it for over two years! I am a student, and this car was very affordable for me. It has everything I wanted in a car--safety, handling, comfortability, peppy engine, good gas mileage, fun to drive, great features inside and out, easy to maintain/ not very costly. It makes me feel great, safe, and very pleased with my purchase. I would not trade this car in for anything!!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Love my car

carol, 12/02/2005
2006 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've had my hatchback for three weeks and absolutely love it. The ride is smooth and the car definitely has great pickup. The folding seats are great for storage and very easy to get up and down. It is a really comfortable car to drive. The air conditioning is good, the stereo great and the interior is very comfortable.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Best Bang for the Buck...AGAIN!

NoVa, 01/23/2006
2006 Mazda 3 s Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought this to replace my beloved Civic Si after the great reviews I had read and the exhaustive research available on the net. This is by far Mazda's best offering for the money in any class. The engine is peppy if not outright powerful. The exterior design is broad shouldered & modern. The interior is well though out & purposeful. Material quality could be better as the plastics get dirty quickly but can be easily cleaned. The mileage is the biggest disappointment as only strictly adhering to the 55 speed limit will get you EPA advertised mpg.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Love it - Love it - Love it

NewToMazda, 12/20/2005
2006 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I like my new Mazda, I'm new to their line of vehicles and was thoroughly surprised at all you get with this rather inexpensive vehicle -- it reminds me of a BMW 3 series. Overall it's quick, nimble and really shines when it comes to acceleration on the highway. I'm glad I ditched my SUV for this vehicle.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Second Mazda 3!

moonman, 01/26/2006
2006 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Went to dealer for an oil change on my '04s, and looked in on the '06 Grand Touring. Mazda has done right by this car -- several of the larger problems (the slow shift out of first when cold) have been fixed by the new 5 speed transmission, and the other refinements on the car are well done. It's the same shell but it feels substantially different ... also appreciate the (admittedly slight) gain in MPG w/ the 5 speed.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Very nice little car

bellamusica, 02/01/2006
2006 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I stepped down from a luxury make to purchase this car. It is a great compromise, with enough luxury features to make me happy, but is still a practical car. The handling is excellent, and the pickup is very good for a small car. The engine is much quieter than other 4-cylinder cars of its type. The gas mileage isn't stellar, but I am still breaking it in. If you want a reliable hatchback that is fun to drive, this car fits the bill. No regrets.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Would buy again. In fact, about to!

Dennis, 12/17/2008
2006 Mazda 3 s Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Interior & exterior look stylish & expensive: people often assume it cost $10k more. Fast, with good midrange power (though more at low RPM would be nice). Manual tranny feels good (but improved clutch feel would permit smoother launches, and the too-tall 2nd gear ratio drops you out of the engine's sweet spot around town unless you wring it out in 1st.) Precise handling, yet good comfort (although more steering feel and suspension travel would be nice). Road noise seems excessive but that's partly because the engine is so quiet (silent idle, & easy to forget to shift to 5th). Brakes are fantastic (though the rotors eventually warp, as they seem to on all modern cars).

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5 out of 5 stars

Loved this car from the day I bought it

Phil, 05/31/2009
2006 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

What can I say. From the day I drove it off the lot it just passes the gas stations by and is just a total joy to drive.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Can't Get Enough!

Brian, 03/10/2006
2006 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I went from a 1990 V8 Ford Mustang to this car. All I can say is WOW! Although there is a drop in horsepower from the Ford to the Mazda3, I hardly notice it. The car handles much better and the features can't be beat. The automatic transmission is fun to drive as well. I'm always looking for an excuse to drive my car. The fuel economy is so-so, but an improvement over my last vehicle. All-in-all, this is a must drive. The only gripes I have are that my right knee rests a little uncomfortably on the center console and the sun visors are too small.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Fun To Drive ... Zoom Zoom*

JoJo, 03/08/2006
2006 Mazda 3 i Touring 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I LOVE my Mazda3. It handles well for a car in this class, love the stereo controls and cruise control on the steering wheel. Seats are so comfy, huge glove box, tons of storage for bottles, maps, books, CD's, tapes, etc. Great stereo system. The exterior looks so cool. I have the Nordic green, it is almost a green/black color and I have seen people stop to look at my car on the highway. If my stupid neighbor didn't hit it 7 days after I bought it I would be even more happy with it. I will get it back from having it fixed and painted tomorrow, can't wait, I miss my baby. Anyway, if you have a choice in buying a economy car, this is luxury all the way for a car in this class!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Best small car in its class.

Reggie, 02/09/2006
2006 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is a very fun car to drive. My wife and I was looking for a small car for our daughter to drive to school that's very safe. I was looking at the Honda Civic and the Chevy Cobalt only because it had OnStar in it. My daughter likes the Mazda3; I must say I'm glad she did, cause I love this car too. I may buy one for me.

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5 out of 5 stars

best car ever

brynmarie, 02/23/2006
2006 Mazda 3 i Touring 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I just bought the car and WOW! I am loving it. Very easy on the eyes, like its driver! Safety was my key factor for this car. It's like a giant pillow with so many airbags it has in it. Also, fuel efficiency is great too. I'm lovin it.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

A whole LOTTA car for the money

Fatty Arbuckle, 02/18/2006
2006 Mazda 3 s Touring 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I'm 23, and had to decide between the Scion tC and Mazda3. Two features of the Mazda won me over: the 5-speed auto with sport shift, and the interior design. 7000 miles in, and I have no regrets. The driving experience has always been fun, and usually exhilarating. This is due to the tight suspension, tight cornering, and plenty of torque @ 4000 RPM in 2nd gear. No major problems to speak of; the wipers cracked early, leaving streaks. A small squeak has arisen from somewhere beneath my seat.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Fun car

Derfo, 02/20/2006
2006 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Looked at a Toyota Matrix, a VW Golf and a Golf GTI, and by far this was the best bang for the buck. Toyota Matrix and VW Golf are not as much fun to drive. Golf GTI, more powerful, costs much more and comes in 3 door only. The handling of Mazda3 is excellent and so are the brakes. Currently I am getting around 26mpg, and that is for mostly highway driving. The dog (110 lbs) fits in the car just fine and so do the boxes from IKEA. Visibility is great. The dash lights up very well and the stick shifts amazingly well. Overall, a great car which is fun to drive and doesn't cost a whole lot.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

I'm impressed!

DonMTL, 02/27/2006
2006 Mazda 3 s 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

5K miles in on a 06 fully loaded S hatch. So far I'm impressed and quite proud to drive it. I came from the 4X4 scene but the fuel just got too much to deal with. This is quick, comfortable and fun to drive. Too small for ski trips, but excellent for 98% of my requirements. I would definitely recommend.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

There is always room to improve...

Marcelo, 03/02/2006
2006 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I love this car! Fun to drive, great performance, very comfortable. I looked for a compact and got the cream of the cream of Mazda 3. All the optionals. The Bose sound system is unbelievable. The car totally sticks to the road. For a compact I hardly could be more satisfied, but I am a perfectionist. For the cream of the cream, they could offer a few more features. How come they don't have the option of power seats? How come the car keys look so cheap? Overall, it is great (otherwise I would not buy it), but there is always room for improvement.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Style,engineering,economy at good price

jaldav, 05/26/2009
2006 Mazda 3 i 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Enjoyable to drive. Solid build and handling. Looks sexy. I bought this car last February and so far it's been a good choice when comparing to Nissan, Honda and Toyota. More bang for the buck. I'm planning to hang on to this vehicle for as long as possible since I fear future cars may look like upscale golf carts.

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5 out of 5 stars

Get a 3, forget the new Civic

Sam Brenner, 03/13/2006
2006 Mazda 3 s Touring 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

After owning a 2006 Honda Civic EX coupe for just 4 months, I was very UNDERWHELMED by this vehicle. Fortunately, my local Mazda dealer was eager to sell me a new Mazda3 S Touring sedan. What a difference in vehicles! My 3 has much more pickup; has better visibility (I can actually see both the front and rear of the Mazda); and is great fun to drive! The Honda did get a few more miles-per-gallon, but I am getting even more SMILES-PER-GALLON in my new Mazda3.

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5 out of 5 stars

Excellent car, minor improvements needed

Bill, 03/25/2006
2006 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The car is a joy to drive. Haven't had a chance to rev the engine yet since I'm under the 600 mile break-in period. The acceleration and braking are very good. The gas mileage could be a little better though especially when compared to the Honda Civic.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Snappy

Martin, 01/08/2008
2006 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought the car because the 17mph I was getting was crazy at $3.50 a gal. I looked at Honda and Nissan, but the performance sold me, as well as the 4 yr., 50k warranty. It still surprises me everytime I put my foot into it. The car rockets to the 6500 redline, and there is a huge torque leap at about 3500. You have to watch your speed though because the car gives alot and can surprise you with its agility and handling. I do a 90-mile round trip about 6 times a month, and I'm used to getting about 29 mpg, lead foot and all. Inside it has the feel of a small BMW and all the bells and whistles too. This is one fun "economy" car! Zoom, zoom.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Very Happy

Brook, 03/26/2006
2006 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Just bought a 2006 Mazda 3 Grand Touring. Only one day old so all I can say is so far so good. The "bells and whistles" are the best part along with solid driving feel. I love the manual choice on the automatic. Dealer said if you use it consistently you can dramatically improve gas mileage. Need to see if that's true. I bargained hard for this car and you can get it for invoice if you wait and compete for different bids.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Smooth city car

Juan de fuca, 03/27/2006
2006 Mazda 3 s 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
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Great car! I did a ton of research before buying this car and drove just about everything I could find (Toyota/Scion,Honda,Chevy,Ford....). Nothing felt as solid and responsive as the 3. So far (4,000 miles) this car is great; it's smooth, well built, the fuel economy isn't spectacular but it is reasonably good (25-28). It is a little too easy to speed.The clutch is good and the shifter is excellent. I can actually lay down in back to sleep! And I'm 6ft tall! I highly recommend this car. Bargain for the price.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Expectations Met

Pasha, 04/06/2006
2006 Mazda 3 i Touring 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
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Before purchasing MAZDA3 i, I owned "Toyota Corolla S" for 2 years. I was very unhappy with it, because it was a simple basic car with very low power, and was expensive. MAZDA3 i met all my expectations. At this price range, I would definitely recommend this vehicle. It has a quiet and smooth ride, and great corner handling. Compared to others at this price range, Mazda3 has much more power and still very fuel efficient. Unbelievable. In real-world driving, with 12 gallons of gas, I went 430 miles. I loved the exterior design. I really enjoy driving this vehicle. If you are looking for a car for $16,500, I would recommend MAZDA3 i. For this price, this is the total package today.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

Nice Little Car

Cate, 08/27/2005
2006 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Very snappy, fun to drive, easy on the pocketbook with the great gas mileage. Perfect car for the teen to drive around town.

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