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Loving it
CJRZOOM, 06/19/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring Value 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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
David, 07/14/2008
2008 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
2008 Mazda 3 for sale near you
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- i Touring Value SedanMSRP: $5,500226 mi away
- i Touring SedanMSRP: $5,895292 mi away
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Mazda3 2.0L Auto
Kennedy, 09/17/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring Value 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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
quicksilver, 01/04/2008
2008 Mazda 3 s Sport 4dr Hatchback w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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!
Great little car!
mom42, 04/11/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I went from a Honda civic (very comparable purchase price!) to the 3i Touring.. and most of all I can't beleive the improvement in handling! It's a way nicer riding car- just seems more solid. It also handles quite a bit better in the snow. I get about 8 mpg less, but it is worth it. I feel more safe/secure in it, the stereo sounds much better, and it's fun to drive! Many people have said how cute/nice it looks.
Nice car
Jack, 10/04/2007
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Got this car last month. Its amazing. I like its engine - much better than 1.8L Honda Civic. Definitely would recommend. Totally worth the price.
Just a Great Value
Heidi's3, 06/06/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Sport 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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 3s GT Hatch is fun
RS, 08/21/2008
2008 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
Money well spent!
Spikeroo, 11/02/2007
2008 Mazda 3 s Touring 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My first Mazda. I am very happy with the overall performance and the comfort considering the reasonable cost of the vehicle. I probably will step up to a larger model after I give this one to my granddaughter for college in 2 years. Mazda impresses me as a quality manufacturer.
ZOOM-ZOOM !
Lee, 07/09/2008
2008 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
Zoom Zoom Zoom
sc, 06/09/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
Unsurprisingly Suprising Quick
SA 3 Driver, 01/09/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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
The Horn
Eroteme, 01/07/2008
2008 Mazda 3 s Sport 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
Mazda is #1
CHERIE, 04/29/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this car! I traded in my 1999 Ford Escort which made feel like I was trading for an ultimate luxury car. I researched this car for weeks; its the best deal you can get for your money. The black interior takes a little extra effort to keep clean. The swifter duster is the best thing to clean the dash with. The carpet and cloth are a little on the cheap side but all the other features make up for it. It has good power and especially when needed and good gas mileage.
The road car
willie robinson, 07/14/2008
2008 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
2008 Mazda 3s Hatchback GT
RS, 05/05/2008
2008 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Took delivery early April. Have driven about 1600 miles already. Average mpg 23-24. Very lively and comfortable to drive. Like the dash layout and the feel. Nav system limits operation to while stationary. Unable to tell if the outside review mirrors are heated? Front seats comfortable. Rear seat leg space tight. Front seat heaters do not turn off automatically!
Most fun and utility for the money!
DAVID A, 09/22/2008
2008 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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!
Driving Is Fun Again
John, 01/16/2008
2008 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Hatchback w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car for two reasons: I drove a 1996 Protege that I treated me dearly and I recieve special pricing being a part of the Ford family. My only thought now every morning as I hop in my car is, "driving is fun again". I have never been more proud of a car, both in style and reliability. There's nothing about this car I don't like.
Smokin' Value Edition
litchik28, 03/20/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring Value 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Have it in Copper Red Mica - absolutely stunning, with responsive steering, acceleration and braking to match. Value edition has ABS, leather-wrapped steering wheel, fog lights, wheel locks, satellite radio capability and auxiliary jack for an iPod. I also chose the 6-CD changer/moonroof package, cargo net and all-season mats. This car is funkier and hotter than the Civic and is much more fun to drive.
Best in show
LB, 05/08/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring Value 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I took my time and test-drove almost every Asian or European car in the small-sedan class but the 3i Touring stood out. Now that I've had it for 3 months and taken one long trip (2000 miles), I'm more convinced than ever I made the right choice. The competition's cars are either fun or economical, never both. This car is. I've been getting over 30 in the city and over 40 highway, up to 44 mpg! Not a fast car but zippy and very nimble. I paid $15,700 for mine with the ABS-6 airbag option. Wow. Absolutely get the stick. The worst problem is road noise but every car this size has it so I guess it's just part of the deal.
Fun to Drive and Your own Toy
Rafiq, 03/25/2008
2008 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Fun to drive. Sleek exterior, especially the 17" alloy wheels. Though rumours are they wear out fast, but driving them with care won't hurt. Me and my friend did a fast acceleration in our work parking lot, and 0-50 seems to go in 5 secs. And ya truly Mazda did the ZOOM ZOOM. Anyone interested, grab it.
A step up...
Maria, 08/30/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Sport 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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!
HappyCamper
rocketron, 07/16/2008
2008 Mazda 3 s Touring 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've waited a year to give an accurate review and I have to say I am still very happy with my car. Drives great, looks good, and this summer started getting 30 MPG compared to 25 MPG last fall. Drove well this winter. The traction control got me up a snowy hill when I don't think anything else would. Two other coworkers bought one at the same time and all have been happy. All had low tire pressure 3 months (cold day?) in all tires, but put air in them and no problem. Only issue I have is car is eating factory tires. 14K and looks like I will need 4 new before 2 years old. Warranty is 12K (not kidding) so Mazda planned this. Will spend $450 for new, OUCH.
Better than expected
Bob, 10/01/2008
2008 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Having driven mini-vans for 20+ years, I wanted something more economical (MPG) but still had some room to haul things. I also wanted to stay with Japanese. The M3 wasn't on my radar screen until pretty late in the game. I'm embarrassed to say this but the heated seats sealed the deal for me. The price was VERY attractive, too. Now that I've had the car for a few months and have put 6,000 miles on it, I'm quite enamored with it. Great amenities. It's fun too drive -- too fun maybe. I often have a hard time going easy for the better MPG. I miss the space/convenience of a mini-van but life is all about tradeoffs. Bottom line: no regrets, at least so far.
I love my Mazda3
Melissa , 06/22/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring Value 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Traded in my extremely basic Chevy Cavalier for a Mazda3 and i Dont regret it one bit. The comfort is spectacular. The Cavalier seats were made of nothing and the Mazda has the adjustable seat height I love it. I love how it lights up red at night. I love the Copper Red Mica Color! Its not as fuel efficient as my cavalier but who cares. I have a/c now and for the texas summers thats a major plus. Minimal road noise. Even though it looks tiny it's pretty big on the inside. The glove box is large and the trunk is very deceiving although it's short once you pop the trunk it goes back pretty far. I would highly suggest this car to anybody.
Best Value for Its Class
anenders, 06/27/2009
2008 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my Mazda 3. The interior is well designed. It has many fun features such as rain sensor, bose speakers, heated leather seat, moon roof etc. I still could not believe that I could get mine for less than 20000 with 0% interest.
Super fun sport-like drive
Barbara Martin, 01/25/2008
2008 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Hatchback w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned my Mazda 4 Door (with hatch) Grand Touring sedan for two days and am VERY happy to have chosen it over the Toyota Matrix which, although of reputed higher quality, was a total drag to drive. The Mazda is zippy, smooth, and responds quite handily. Of course I won't get quite the mileage, but then I'm coming off a 3500+ lb. mini-van so I'm still way ahead. I have no complaints at all and recommend this vehicle entirely. If you want a fun yet semi-sophisticated car that's just roomy enough for 4 adults in super comfort and is also incredibly cute, this is your vehicle. I got many more features for less money than the Matrix but ended up with a much better and more nimble ride.
Zoom Zoom
UNCW, 07/15/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring Value 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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
Best Car I have Owned
Kevin , 05/16/2009
2008 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Hatchback w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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!
Fun, Value, Economy, Pesonality
woofer, 10/12/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Sport 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
So far I'm impressed. My 3 may be described as a Japanese VW based on certain similarities. Handling is great, interior quality is great, and engine is smooth with better than expected torque and a great sound. A driver's car at a low price. Beats Civic and Corolla for personality. Thus far got 34 MPG. 5-spd is fun to shift. Body metal feels thinner and structure is less strong than my superb Golf TDI (which I kept); cheaper build, cheaper paint, but the price is lower.
Looks good. Runs good. Excellent value.
Bestdaddyo, 06/26/2008
2008 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I like driving this car, even though I generally dislike automatic transmissions. I bought this mainly for my daughter, but she's away at college 7 months out of the year, so I get to drive it often. It shifts smoothly and quietly. Has plenty of quickness and power, and doesn't feel too small, like the Honda Fit, Nissan Versa and Scion xD. Excellent steering/handling. Plus, the gas mileage is pretty decent. I drive 90% city, and average 26.2 mpg. Road noise is a little high, but not a big distraction. It has every comfort and convenience feature one could ask for, yet the price is ridiculously low. Heck, in a BMW, you could spend the price of this car in accessories alone!
Bang for buck
bstern92, 09/11/2013
2008 Mazda 3 s Touring 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought car for $13,500 in 2010. I love the steering wheel feel and the radio controls. Sound system is very good. Seat material is very sturdy. The car has 112k on it and the seats still lokk new. Engine is very peppy and the steering is sporty. Only negative is the design is a little feminine. Only repair was a temperature sensor.
Great car - zoom zoom
parusianknight, 07/18/2008
2008 Mazda 3 s Sport 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Researched new 5-door for past 6 months. The Mazda3 beats every all others, hands down. The build quality is outstanding. The attention to detail and standard features in a "base model" are a lesson to other car builders. The Mazda3 automatic drives like a charm - be careful if you have other drivers in the house - it will quickly become a car of choice. The maintenance schedule is like no other - Sealed automatic transmission - no service required; 1st coolant flush - 100,000 miles; pretty much just oil changes. I recommend the Mazda extended warranty - very reasonably priced and gives you bumper to bumper coverage.
Amazing Car
Chillaxin171, 08/02/2009
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring Value 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this car, had it for a year and a half now and love to drive. Honestly would've rather the Speed3, but got this instead. For a 4 Cylinder engine this car is built well, sounds good, and picks up pretty damn fast.
Mazda3
MazdaOwner, 05/12/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring Value 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Looked at several small cars mainly due to the high fuel prices. The Mazdas always were rated excellent. Also we had a Mazda 323 forever with no problems. After test driving several cars I kept coming back to the Mazda3. I'm not sure if it's because it looks so good, or because it's so much fun to drive. We looked at used ones, but they were close to the price of a new one, so we bought new. So far we love it! 1st tank calculated 25.8 MPG with that being about 60% city driving.
Glad I Bought It
Penten15, 10/16/2008
2008 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
When I bought my Mazda3 it was actually my first new car. It is very fun to drive and the steering is more precise than anything I have ever driven. The leather is very comfortable although the dark leather certainly keeps the car warm. Fortunately the AC is amazing. Fuel economy is good but not amazing, but the car is more fun than anything that that gets better gas mileage.
Great First Car
jax, 10/09/2009
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring Value 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my first car and it has met and superseded all my expectations. As all others I love the handling and the acceleration is great. It looks great, a lot better than the new 2010 (smiley face and ugly tail lights). I have driven 27,000 miles in one year and it runs great with no problems. Get a car bra to protect the paint if you drive on highways often, otherwise it will surely get chipped. The tires are a bit skittish in wet conditions although was fine in snow and I live New England.
Zoom Zoom
ZOOM ZOOM, 04/18/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring Value 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
--A+-- I researched cars for months drove 1/2 dozen others in the class, Nissan, Toyota, Honda, Kia and ended up selling myself on a Mazda3 before I ever drove one. Started out considering larger vehicles, but when gas prices shot up once again and my path was clear, I commute 60 miles a day and had to consider mileage. When I did test drive my Mazda3 it was clear, this was my car, only decision left was color. Problem now is that I like it so much I don't want to put big miles on it so fast (this was a replacing my 1999 nissan P/U which already has over 170,000/miles!). I've started sharing the commute load between all 3 of my cars so the Mazda3 is in my driveway for years
Jack Rabbit 3i
PnBoo, 09/18/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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).
Have fun/save gas
Wallenstein, 05/03/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Researched similar vehicles to death, but having owned 2000 and 2002 Proteges with no unscheduled maintenance problems, the 2008 was a no-brainer. It's fast enough, handles as if on rails, driver's seat and position are a great fit. Averaging 34 mpg in mixed Spring driving (I coast a lot downhill). Owner oil and filter changes are not difficult if you have ramps that are not steeply angled. Trade your premium fuel burners. It would be difficult not to like the value in the Mazda3.
Fun Zoom Zoom
Happy Zoom Zoom, 01/14/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Sport 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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!!!
Adorable, sport, fun
mazda owner, 06/03/2008
2008 Mazda 3 s Sport 4dr Hatchback w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I was looking for a more fuel efficient vehicle than my Toyota Sequoia. I've always owned Toyotas and test drove the new '09 Matrix. I wasn't impressed with the responsiveness or the overall looks. I test drove the Mazda 3 and was immediately impressed. The 3 has a very sporty look, it's comfortable, responsive, handles well, holds the road well in curves and has lots of features standard safety and otherwise. This car has more standard features than the Matrix such as stereo & cruise control on the steering wheel, and 17" alloy wheels. I sacrificed a little gas mileage between the Matrix 1.8L 4 speed and the Mazda 2.3L 5 speed but I ended up with a car that's a lot more fun to drive.
A nice car that somehow is made cheaply
ejh, 10/09/2009
2008 Mazda 3 s Touring 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had this car for 15 months and 18k miles. It is a fun car and until recently I would recommend it to anyone. I've had a few things go wrong that should never be an issue, especially for a Japanese car. Some are minor, some are not: * The plastic battery box cover broke the first time I opened it. * The gas cap broke, with part of it stuck on the filler tube. * The clutch is not working right. Something inside the clutch assembly broke causing poor engagement/disengagement of the clutch, which is felt as a notchy, clicking sensation in the pedal. The actually clutch friction plate is fine (this is not an issue due to poor manual driving skills). * Stock tires only lasted 17.5K.
Overall happiness
thark57, 10/13/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Sport 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have 2000 mi. so far. All city miles so far. Mileage has steadily climbed starting at 28.5 to 31 mpg. There seems to be a gearing gap from 1st to 2nd gear. Trunk is roomy and back seats work great for my 7 and 11 yr olds. I think there should be more interior colors available. I wish there was a 6th gear for the highway. Not sure why the a/c turns on when you turn the temperature control know back all the way to cool.
Can't ask for more
Spencer, 12/23/2009
2008 Mazda 3 i Sport 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car less than 1 yr ago after test driving 14 other cars. It was the last 2008 on the lot, and the only options are side airbags, 4 wheel abs, and A/C, so I got it for $13,000 OTD. Handling is superb, especially since I upgraded to 17" alloys with 215 tires over stock steel wheels with 195 tires. I consistently got 38 mpg driving carefully with about 85% hwy...got 42 only time I drove only hwy. Mileage seemed to go down to 33-34 mpg since wheel upgrade, but more verification needed. Acceleration is more than adequate, but you're not going to win too many drag races. Not crazy about clutch as it is a bit light and engagement point is difficult to find. Have not had any issues yet
15 years NO MORE HONDA
Mom2DrewAidan, 10/19/2008
2008 Mazda 3 s Touring 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After 15 years of Honda's I have moved on. I gave my husband the 2004 Honda Element which is still a great vehicle for driving around with kids and everything at Lowe's. But mom wanted a sporty fun car for the commute to work and pick the kids up in school. LOVE IT. Great gas mileage. Pulled ahead during the gas shortage in the Atlanta area.
More amenities than a loaded BMW
gina4321, 01/07/2010
2008 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned this 2008 Mazda S Grand Touring since July of 2008 and just LOVE it! I sold my BMW X5 to buy this Mazda and it has more bells and whistles. Heated seats, Xenon headlights, leather seats, Bose Stereo, 6 disc, auto wipers etc..It was used with 14k miles and I paid 17500. for this in 2008. What a deal. Currently has 23000. miles on it with no problems what so ever!!
Luxury at a lower sticker price!
arjag2010, 01/08/2010
2008 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I LOVE my Mazda. I purchased a used 2005 Mazda3s in September of 2009, which was totaled when I was rear-ended in November. I did not hesitate to purchase another Mazda. Taking advantage of the fact that there was a new body style (2010) coming out, I got a great deal on a 2008 3s GT. I definitely recommend the s. The 2.3 makes a difference. I test drove an i and it just didn't have the same sporty feel, especially going up hills. I have had various rentals in the same class as the Mazda, and have also test driven quite a few cars within the class. None have compared. The handling is superb, very tight and responsive.
True zoom zoom
Paul F, 07/24/2008
2008 Mazda 3 s Touring 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I owned a 97 Acura Integra, put 190k miles on it without a problem and thought it was time for something new. Boy was I surprised by the Mazda. It is way better than the Acura in all areas. I did a 1300 mile vacation trip to New England and averaged 34 MPG. The sticker shows 22-29. I was impressed. It is comfortable, peppy and very agile. My only negative remark is the amount of road noise that comes into the cabin, I think Mazda could insulate a bit better. Overall it is a great value and a fun car, I am very happy with it.
Good Car
Mazda Happy, 12/24/2007
2008 Mazda 3 i Sport 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car for the highway miles that I drive. Very happy with this little car. The only dislike is at the higher speeds the engine is buzzy. A six speed would have been nice. But it is a $13k car. I am happy though.