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A great small car
Bought this car new last year after several years in an Audi A6 wagon. This Mazda3 made the step-down very easy to take. Very sporty car with lots of interior space. Surprisingly agile handling and a high fun to drive factor. It's not an Audi interior (what else is?), but it's miles above the competition at this price point (and higher). No repair issues at all.
Great Ride
A very fun car to drive. Great handling and one of the peppiest in its class. My only inconvenience with this model is that the headrests block the rear view mirror's view and the side window design makes it challenging to see cars in either lane when changing lanes. Took a little bit of adjustment to turn my head more to the sides before changing lanes to catch the blind spot. Can't say enough good about his car. I've had Honda Civics and Toyota Corollas and the Protege before, and this car is by far the best for handing, acceleration, and just pure fun. The other did however have better fuel economy.
- i Touring SedanMSRP: $3,99924 mi away
- s Sport 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $6,490134 mi away
- s Sport 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $5,693214 mi away
2008 Mazda3 i sport
I am leasing the new 2008 Mazda3 with the 2.0 liter engine and so far, it has been great. It is the later 2008.5 model with more standard features. It handles extremely well and corners sharp-great for city driving. Amazing MPG as well.
Best Bang for your Buck! Fun to drive!
I just bought a brand new silver 2008 Mazda3. I got the i Touring Value package with the 2.0 liter engine. This is an awesome car. The ride is smooth, and it's really fun to drive! It gets average fuel economy for its class, but the power from the 2.0 liter 4 cylinder engine is much better than you would expect! This car can definitely take off, and the manumatic shifting on the 4 speed automatic transmission is a nice touch. Kudos to the people responsible for this design! It just goes to show you that you don't have to sacrifice style for your money! This car is beautiful! From the halogen headlights, to the black-out tail lights, and the optional 17-inch alloys - this is a sporty car!
Very happy
The car is a blast to drive. The 2.0 has plenty of power, and gets great mpg (over 30). The manumatic is a fun feature, controls for stereo and cruse are located in perfect place on steering wheel. To me and everyone I have talked to it is the nicest looking car in its class, and is on par with much more expensive cars like Jetta and Altima (if not better). It drives like a sports car, the engine sound is clean during acceleration and almost silent when cruising. It has a massive trunk for a small car. The car looks bigger than it is, and I am 6'2'' and I find the front spacious and the back tolerable but tight. Interior lights are red and dash has cool blue shine. Did I mention PZEV engine?
Mazda 3 - great comfort - poor dashboard
I wanted to move down to a smaller car to get better mileage, but I still wanted room, so I started looking at 5 dr wagons. I'm a big guy 6'3" and after checking out all of the competition (focus, matrix, versa, astra, etc) I found the Mazda 3 by far the most comfortable. It looks great, good price, and has been averaging 29 mpg at 75% commute, 25% interstate. While the instruments, controls and displays are well laid out, the back lit orange display leaves something to be desired. The radio display is hard to read in many lighting situations, and is almost impossible to see with sunglasses on. It would have been really nice to see an MPG readout.
Bummed out
I was really excited to get this car except that it's been in the shop 3 times in it's first year. All with oxygen sensor problems which the service manager told me doesn't happen often. Well it's happened 3 times with me and it sucks. Worried about how reliable this car will be down the road. I had planned on keeping this car for a long time now I'm already looking for a replacement.
My Mazda 3 S Touring
I have only about 300 miles on the Mazda. It is fun to drive and handles very well. The steering and suspension is crisp, the brakes are responsive and smooth. My first tank of gas, mostly local suburban driving, was over 28 MPG. The engine runs slightly rough idling while stopped. I was told this is characteristic of a four cylinder engine. It is surprisingly quick off the line. The only other comment I have is that the key fob does not have a button to open the trunk. All doors may be locked and unlocked from the key fob but for some reason they did not include a trunk release which seems like an oversight. The body panels have good fit, finish and integrity. So far I am very pleased.
Good Car for the Price
I replaced my Mazda 626 of 15 years with this new Mazda3. I really want to buy an electric car, so this car is to get me through the next few years. Other than being 20th century technology, it seems like a solid, nice car. I would have preferred to buy a hatchback but did not want to bump up to the wagon with its heavier weight and bigger engine. I've had a difficult time getting accustomed to the clutch -- it seems to engage much higher on the pedal than I'm used to. I've also noticed the air conditioner seems to place a lot of drag on the engine; this can make judging the gas/clutch mixture a little tricky sometimes. Overall, I'd recommend it for the price.
Fun drive but....
I got this car after my Toyota was involved in an accident. This car is fun to drive and solid. Has decent acceleration and excellent braking steering, cornering. I like the flexibility of the hatchback and it's look. The gas mileage is a disappointment only 25 mpg with combined driving (no lead foot). After my Toyota I note too much road noise and feel every seam in the road. Pricing and multiplicity of trim levels is somewhat dubious/confusing.
Just a Great Value
I did research for a couple years prior to deciding on a Mazda 3. My mom had owned the 323 and a Protege for as long as they've been around, and this Mazda 3 has the same peppy driving feel. It's small, but feels so roomy inside. The handling is fantastic and feels like a much pricier sports car, especially around the turns. I've only had it for a month, but am absolutely in love with it! It's getting around 30 MPG but that's mostly been in the city, not highway. If you want a cute, sporty car, that's fun to drive and an incredible value, this won't disappoint!
Mazda 3
Excellent car. Very good balance between style, performance, comfort and reliability. Sporty and fun to drive.
Great Car!
Very sporty, fun to drive and loaded with features. The seats are very comfortable, love the aux input, peppy engine (2.3) and best in class looks.
LOVE my 3...
I traded in my CX7 for the Mazda3 and love it! The 3 is fun to drive and is very sporty. I am surprised it doesn't get better gas mileage though considering it's size. The fit and finish of the interior is surprisingly nice for the price. The exterior style is far more trendy than others in its class like the Sentra, Corolla, or Civic.
Warm Weather Car
Bought this car in June 08, loved every mile i drove behind the wheel sing its praises to all my family and friend. Until winter of 08 and it snowed. This is by far the worst front wheel drive car I have ever owned or driven in any type of slippery condition. The anti lock brakes are always on and off at every stop and go situation as wheels spin out of control. I love this car in good dry weather, but this is not a car for upstate NY. I spent $900 for snow tires, didn't make any change in performance or handling. This car will not make it to next winter of 09.
Honest Humble Masterpiece!
All in one top car for its class. Power when you need it, MPG's are adequate enough, Stops on a dime, Frontal chassis & great suspension provide a great ride. Interior features only lack cruise control, gps and a driver's seat with height position ajustment but the telescopic steering wheel make up for it. The center arm rest and compartment console position you perfectly and even when the seat quality is less then the top model it extends on it's side to hold you in place. The sound system rocks, I especially like the dash design and everything to go with it, fit and finish is perfect. Passenger space is adequate for a car its size and I vehemently disagree with others the truck is big.
Mazda 3s GT Hatch is fun
I have enjoyed the car for 5 months and over 7000 miles. On a 7 hour drive the car proved comfortable and peppy. Fitted heated side view mirrors. Overall mpg 21-26, which is okay. The car feels steady on highways - does not sway. Overall a very good car. Mazda should shorten the rear bumper depth and may be improve trunk space or the rear seat space by a few more inches.
M3 5 door--Budget Sports Hatchback
The only car in its class that I seriously considered. I wanted a real nice, fast, sporty handling hatchback with great reliability and decent fuel economy that wasn't more than $21,000 in my driveway. That's what I got with the Mazda 3 GT 5-door.
ZOOM-ZOOM !
I traded in my 03 vibe to get ABS, traction control and a little more power, what I got was a car in another league entirely. I thought the vibe handled good when new, but as time went on I realized it wasn't that great (no ABS or traction control). I was surprised to be getting about the same gas mileage with the Mazda3, with better power.
A Great Value!
For the money, this car was a great purchase. I added a spoiler and tinted the windows, and I have a nice little sports car for less than 19k. It's attractive, fun, roomy, and very practical. I only wish the gas mileage would be a little higher, but I guess Mazda didn't want to compromise the horsepower. I'm surprised they didn't add a remote trunk opener to the keyless entry, a minor annoyance, but the other positives like 17" alloys, steering wheel radio controls, outside temp, moonroof, and fog lamps more than make up for anything it's lacking. Mazda did a VERY good job designing this car, and it's an unbeatable buy. I'd highly recommend this car to anyone!
The Love-to-drive- drivers car!!
I test drove other Mazda 3 competitors models (Rabbit, Civic, Cobalt, Focus). None matched the comfort, performance, style or price value of the 3. The cars looks great, has many added features and its not as common as a Civic or Focus. The Mazda provides the best all around package of reliability, easy to find parts, reasonable price, performance and sense of exclusivity. You still don't see that many around.
So Far I Like
Was looking for a stylish car with good gas mileage for my budget. Mazda3 so far is meeting my expectations. Have only driven about 500 miles on it. It has quick acceleration and looks good on inside and out. Love the orange lighting on dash and six disc changer also aux jack is a plus. Glove box is huge and trunk is good size for car. I am getting around 25-28 miles to the gallon, that's with mixed freeway city driving. Engine is a little noisy and first minute of starting up it idles a little rough. I have not noticed much road noise. Takes corners like a champ. Speakers are average, will be replacing with some components soon. If you have extra 5k go with the Grand Touring.
Great car for dry weather
I bought this car after researching the Focus, Civic, Fit and Corolla. It is definitely better than those cars. I missed a crucial factor when making my decision: I live in Seattle where it rains a lot and gets slippery. It also snowed a lot this winter and this car was a total disaster. It got stuck twice in my apartment complex and took more than one hour and lots of effort park it. This car is fun to drive, very sporty and handles tight but is meant for dry weathers only.
You Won't Be Disappointed... Zoom-Zoom!
Love this car... there is an s-turn near my house and this car eats it up. Looked at the Civic, Matrix, VWs, Nissans etc. but I chose this car because it is a blast to drive. Build quality is great and there are features that you would expect to find on more expensive cars. Leather seats were a deal breaker and rarely found as an option on smaller cars. Also, I am 6'2" and there is plenty of room for me in this car. For just a shade over 20k you can't go wrong!
Love this car!
Traded in my 2003 Mustang GT convertible for this vehicle and I must say I love this car. Even with going from 8 cyl down to 4, I still get plenty of power and pickup from this car, especially from a stop. Ride is great, very quiet and tight. Bose stereo system is very nice as well. This is a great car for someone looking to get a small car, but still wants to spend a little money for comforts and options (auto lights and wipers are cool!). The only "complaint" is the somewhat low MPG for such a small vehicle. I have been averaging 26-28 MPG combined according to the onboard computer (if I calculate it the old fashioned way, I estimate 28-30 MPG).
The road car
After test driving Honda,Toyota. Nissan, BMW, Volvo, Mitsu, the Mazda 3 came out on top for me to replace my wife's G35 and we were not disappointed. Put about 400 miles in three days and what a road car we got - every thing in it but the nav. My wife said it's quick and fast, love the car, do your research and test drive all the rest, but you will love the 3 trust me.
Thrills on the cheap!
I have owned this Mazda for four months now and have loved every minute of it. This Mazda hatch has it all compared to other economy cars in its class. Superb interior fit and finish, European inspired exterior, crisp handling, and sporty stance. The Zoom-Zoom of this 3 really differentiates it from all others. The 2.3L loves to be revved and the manual transmission definitely helps squeeze every ounce of power from the four-banger. I was debating whether or not to get the navigation system but decided against it as is not worth the $1500 price tag because it does not even have the touchscreen like the CX-7. At the end of the day, this car is near perfect for the price at around $20K!
1 year of ownership
At the car lot I jumped in the vehicle to take it for a drive. It seems very very sluggish and was not at all impressed. Then I noticed the brake light was on!!!!!! Well, after taking the E-brake off I realized this car had some serious zip. It handled better than any of my two other previously owned vehicles. I was sold. Last summer I took the vehicle from Oregon to Yellowstone in Montana. When I hit the Rocky's I noticed my car did not climb very well. Other vehicles on the road seemed to be responding about the same. I decided to experiment and flipped the stick to Manual and dropped it into third gear. I was easily able to drive uphill at 90mph and still had power left over.
6 months later!
I wrote a review about a month after I bought the car. I was overall happy with the car and still am. I just notice lots of engine noise. I inquired about Sirius radio and it's $715 to install and for parts that is insane. If they put the SAT button on my dash it should have already come installed and only needed activation. The paint chips ever so easily thankfully the touch up paint was only 8 bucks. I think it may be the alloys but when you hit a bump or pot whole the tire feels likes it about to fall off. I drove one with reg hubcaps and didnt feel that! I love everything else about the car and still dont regret trading my Cavalier...although sometimes I do miss her!
Easy choice
The Mazda3 is hands down the best car to buy out of all the compacts if you're looking for value and maybe a little respect on the road. I test drove every car in this class trying to find a car that wouldn't bust my bank and was still fun to drive. Nothing compared to the Mazda 3 when it comes to the fun to drive factor and the amount of options for the price. If you like driving a manual transmission make sure you test drive this car. Nothing else compares when it comes to 5 speed manuals at this price. I've been nothing but impressed with my Mazda 3 so far. Mazda has done a great job of reinventing themselves.
A step up...
I kept my 2001 Mazda Protege for 7 years (It treated me well... Thanks Protege!) I decided to update to a simple 08 Mazda 3 i sport. I absolutely love it! Even though it has no power windows or locks, I still enjoy it. I got my Mazda in icy blue metallic, a spoiler and tinted. It's also a manual with just the right amount of power (2.0L). It will save me money later on. I'll be keeping this one for a while!
Almost Perfect!
I love love love my Mazda 3. I did a lot of research of the Honda Civic, Fit, Toyota Corolla and the Volks Jetta. I was almost going to buy the Corolla until I test drove the Mazda 3 Sedan. It was the handling that sold me and the expensive/sporty look of the trim. The Corolla was everything I expected it to be, but the Mazda 3 surpassed what I was looking for.
Can't stay out of it.
I commute 45 minutes each way to work. Since I bought M3 I find myself getting a earlier start each morning so I can take the back rodes to work. I have 2008 S Touring 5 spd manual and it is a blast to drive. Prior to that I owned a 2004 Mini Cooper w 1.4 liter engine. Mini hugged the curves better but did not have pep that 2,3L engine provides. M3 revs at about 3100rpm at 80 mpg, Mini over 4000. Suspension stiff on both, which I don't mind. M3 looks cool and theirs more room in the back for the kids. M3 doesn't get the gas mileage that Mini did but I can run 87 instead of premium. Trade off is worth it. In my mid forty's but I feels like a kid again when i get in this car.
High Quality on a Budget
I just traded in my 2000 Eclipse GT V6 (loaded) for a brand new 2008 Mazda 3 Grand Touring (even more fully loaded). The dealership checked every box, including navigation, sunroof, and the Bose multi-changer cd. The fit and finish in this car is hard to beat in the class and price range. Everything about this car is high quality. So far, in my first 500 miles, I haven't found anything to dislike. I was worried about "trading down" from a sports car, but I think I've really come out on the winning end with performance, economy, and an upscale interior with all of the amenities one could want.
Zoom Zoom
Sold SUV because of gas prices and got a 2008 Mazda 3 i Touring Value Edition. Excellent car especially for the money. I got a copper red mica color, 5 spd, 17" wheels, foglights, one touch moonroof, 6 disc w/ auxiliary input and excellent sound, power windows and keyless remote, soft touch plastics and good interior feel, and neat interior illumination. I have had it for about 2 weeks and can't wait to get in it every time. First time I got 29.92 mpg with the 2.0 5-speed but that was mixed driving. Only city, I get about 24 or 25. After comparing to the Hyundai Elantra and Honda Civic respectively, this was definitely the best choice
Now I know why they say "Zoom Zoom"
I LOVE my car!! This is my first Mazda! I had traded in a Chevy Cavalier which I had really enjoyed - until I test drove this car! I have the Grand Touring Hatchback. The moonroof is nice and I love the Bose speakers (the sound quality is excellent) and the leather interior is very comfortable! I drive a lot of city miles and average about 22.5 mpg. When I go on trips though and am on the highway I am getting more like 30 mpg! I am very happy with my purchase!
Shopped for a New '10, Bought an '08
I got interested in the new 2010 Mazda 3, but test-drove the car and didn't like the interior or rear-quarter blind spots at all. Got interested in the old-generation ("leftover") '08 and '09 Mazda 3s still on the lot, drove one, and liked it much better -- especially on the inside. Made a great deal on a loaded '08. I think this is the class of the small-Asian-sedan segment -- more distinctive than the Corolla or Civic and streets ahead of the Sentra in terms of comfort, performance and amenities. It's roomy up front (not so much in back), quick off the line, great in the corners, and styled like a bargain-basement BMW. Worthy competitor to Jetta at less cost, better build quality.
Best Car I have Owned
I traded my 3 series BMW for the 08 S-GT Hatchback . Got it loaded with the Bose Audio, front Spoiler and the base accessories are mind boggling , Xenons, Leather , Roof , Power all around , heated seats . It was an outstanding value and now that they changed the body in 2009 I realize what a masterpiece of beauty this body style is. Designed By the Jaguar designer and he did a top notch job I must say. It launches with ease cruises at 90 not even breathing and has the suspension to match.After I hit 30K had the fuel injectors clean'd and the throttle body and after that the car was like new and started giving me an extra 3 mpg on the fwy with more power. Dealer said stop using 91 it worked!
Zoom - Zoom!
I love this car! It's as stylish as any BMW but, your not paying that ridiculous price. I love the energy this car has. It's way too much fun to drive. Handles GREAT!
Zoom Zoom Zoom
Just purchased pleased with look and interior wish it was a little more comfortable. I am average height 5'10" and is a little crampted. Fuel economy is not bad. I wish it was closer to 32- 35 the I have read about. Average is about 30 mpg. Warranty is ok, changed in the last few years I noticed. I am pleased, it's a good car smart buy.
Loving it
I purchased my 3i Touring Value last Saturday. I have gotten nothing but compliments on the car. It has great acceleration, nice looks, has a moonroof and a 6-cd changer. The 5 spd has a good gear ratio and the engine rides smoothly, particularly above 55 mph. Handling is superb and on par with German sedans costing nearly twice as much. I was originally going for the 5dr, but did not want to sacrifice fuel economy. Car is still new, so can't judge everything just yet but it is near perfect and I have no regrets.
The best car I've owned
I bought the top-of-the-line sedan. It handles and rides very well. It's quiet inside without too much road noise. The automatic transmission is very smooth and includes a digital indicator of the current gear as it shifts, which is a useful feature. It has good acceleration with the 2.3L engine (but you won't mistake it for a V6 or V8.) The car was delivered in perfect condition, with no problems or blemishes of any kind. Both the interior and exterior have a "look" of quality. The car doesn't appear cheesy, like a lot of inexpensive cars do. On my 2nd tank of gas, the display showed 28.4 mpg average. It has a ton of equipment: Bose, Sirius, stability, xenon, advanced brakes, etc.
Mazda3 2.0L Auto
I bought this Mazda3 based mainly on previous professional reviews for its reliability, agility and fuel mileage. Plus, I really liked the exterior styling. After driving some 6000 miles I've found that the ride is jittery, choppy and generally unrefined. It always feel like there is a wheel out of balance or tire out of round. Both motor mounts where replaced and a 4 wheel road force balance but there is still a lot of engine shake felt through the steering wheel and chassis. I wouldn't buy again.
Zoom-zoom
Lots of pluses. Zero issues in 1st 7K mls. List of standard amenities is as long as your arm. Since most the positives are listed in the brochures and Mazda info, I'll focus on the stuff they don't tell you. All cars have negatives. Consider if you can tolerate these: 1. factory speakers are horrible. Replaced all 4 with cheapo $26 speakers, for a major improvement. 2. Even understanding that performance uses gas, mileage is less than expected (26- 29 mpg). 3. Stock tires flat spot after sitting and need to warm up before the tiny thumping goes away. Otherwise stock tire performance and noise is fine so far. No need to slow down and brake for corners. That makes it very fun to drive!
5 Month Review
Very happy with this purchase so far. Car performs well on the highway, but where it really shines is off the beaten path (this car loves curvy roads). TVE packed with features, though not quite the gas mileage I had read about... yet.
Unsurprisingly Suprising Quick
I bought my 3 a few weeks ago and do mostly highway driving. Although the fuel economy is not up to par with Honda, it does better than my previous auto. Road noise is a bit loud over 70MPH, but the car has super handling.The responsiveness and handling makes you feel connected to the road. A definite best-buy for its class. Very Pleased. 2.0L is great, but 2.3L is better, if you have the extra $1000-$1500
Jack Rabbit 3i
Bought the car for my 25 mile (one way) trip to work. After 8,000 miles, could not be happier. Averages about 32 MPG on highway. Very agile and turning radius is incredible. I test drove a few other small cars; this is the only one I felt a smirk come across my face during the test. I wish I had purchased the manual transmission. Only initial complaint was the seats, I had to use a seat cushion to be comfortable (very minor).
The Horn
Overall quite satisfied. However, I will say I am not pleased with the silly horn, it sounds like it belongs on a small scooter, maybe a motorized bicycle. The bird chirping horn does not match the quality of the car. And I can't say I am all that pleased with the heater, it takes 15 minutes or better to attain comfort, at which time I am usually at my destination, freezing from the cold. Also, the panic button on the switch fob has a range of about 20 feet. My previous car panic button had a much greater range, helping me find where I parked the car on occasion. But as said, I am quite pleased with the car.
Fun Zoom Zoom
Bought my 3 for cheap reliable transportation, so far not diappointed. Love the response and drivability. I am a 300+ 6'1" male and I fit in the car nicely and comfortably. This car is roomier inside than it looks... Happy Zoom Zoom!!!
Most fun and utility for the money!
I got the top of the line, hatch back, leather, heated seat, cd, iPod link, manual shift, 2.3 liters, etc. Lots of fun to drive, great looking car, not the most economic small car though. In the city I average 22 mpg. Test drove other similar cars, like Civic etc, M3 is the most fun to drive. I love the hatch back. I have loaded things in the back of this car that I could not have done with any other 4 doors car, Hatch back are considered 5 doors! It should have a roof rack! That is a great let down for me on this car. I learned that it is not available from factory after I bought the car. Now I have a thule, but it is not the same as having a factory one!