Used 2008 Mazda 3 Sedan Consumer Reviews
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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.
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!!!
2008 Mazda 3 for sale near you
Showing 3 of 117 listings
- i Touring Value SedanMSRP: $3,99512 mi away
- i Touring Value SedanMSRP: $3,500109 mi away
- i Sport SedanMSRP: $3,995125 mi away
See all 117 listings
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.
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.
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This is my first car and it has met and superseded all my expectations.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.
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
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.
my life post-BMW
stasia miaskiewicz, 03/01/2010
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 am a 50-something woman. 10 years ago i got my midlife crisis car, a BMW 328i. I loved that car. eventually, rather than repair, decided to move on...I must have driven 10 different types of cars before i settled on the mazda3. went for the 2008 because i think the rear lights on the newer models look sinister - just me. it's been 8 months since purchase and i really like this car! - it's fun!! drive one, you'll agree!
I Love My Car!
SarahF, 03/11/2010
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 have had my Mazda 3 for about a year and a half now, and love it! It is very responsive and fun to drive. Driving it feels "sporty", unlike other cars I test drove (the Nissan Sentra for example). I also felt like it had more interior room and better visibility than the Civic. It would be nice if the fuel economy was a little better, however, I still usually get about 28 miles to the gallon (suburban driving), and on road trips it averages about 31.
Zoom zoom
:), 05/30/2010
2008 Mazda 3 i Sport 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had my Mazda 3 for about a year now, put 15k over the past year so I drive it alot. :) Honestly, it is a fun zippy car especially for those with a lead foot. :D Car is great so far. Love it! Better than my last Honda Accord. Zoom zoom!
Great choice
mark, 06/02/2010
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring Value 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought new in 08 over a Civic and have been extremely pleased. Got rid of the performance rubber for some all- season tires which made the car a lot quieter and less nervous. Handling is still great. I have been getting 35 mpg in the summer and 32-33 in the winter ( I am some what of a feather foot). The 2.0 liter engine spins more easily with every mile, the chassis is still tight, and the car has not had a single issue. I also think it is better looking than the new model.
Road Hugger
Paul D., 08/01/2010
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring Value 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car doesn't seem to lack all that much. Best priced in it's class. Ample power from the 2.0 engine. The stiffer suspension allows the car to hug turns in the road like a nothing else I've driven except a corvette. Fun to drive.Road noise is a bit above average on the highway. Stock Goodyear tires are junk. The wear way to fast and are no good in light snow. MPG is not bad I've gotten 26 mpg combined many times. Interior is smartly designed and comfortable for a small car. Base sound system sounds good but aftermarket speakers dramatically improves sound. If you're looking for a sport compact without a high price, this is the car.
So Far I Like
NorCal Driver, 01/31/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
Best value for fun and economy
woofer, 10/11/2010
2008 Mazda 3 i Sport 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Good looking, fun-to-drive, low purchase price, and good fuel economy make it hard-to-beat for the $. Much more of a 'driver's car' than the Civic, Corolla or Sentra. MPG is usually 32-35 MPG (combined) after break-in, and already saw 39 MPG, all highway miles. No rotor warp as others have stated: a torque wrench MUST be used when tightening lug nuts! No issues to date, only service has been oil changes.
Great purchase
retiredinaz1, 03/16/2014
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 new in May of 2008 when I moved to AZ. I only have 43,200 miles on it and it still runs like new. I did have to replace leaky shocks once but that was only problem. I change oil every 3,000 miles so believe that helps. I LOVE this car and hope it lasts me another 6 years!
Mazda3 Line Still The Best
vaclubmaker, 02/13/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned Mazda vehicles since 1984 and the 3 series (GLC, 323, Protege, Mazda3) have always been the best when it comes to value, performance, and style in sedans. Bought the "3" to be used by my college-age daughters while Mazda was offering the 0% APR deal (and to avoid the stupid No. VA transportation tax). As with all my Mazda vehicles, the driving position, design, and sporting nature have been retained even in the base model i Sport I purchased. I liked the fact that finding one with ABS and side curtain airbags was not impossible in the base model. My only complaint would be the colors on the instruments. There's just not enough contrast for my 50+ year old eyes.
Mazda 3 = BEST car for the buck.
zoom zoom guy, 02/13/2008
2008 Mazda 3 s Touring 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Hello to all possible car buyers. If you are looking for a car with style, interior and exterior beauty, performance and even good gas mileage for under 20,000 dollars look no further, this is the car you are going to get. Mazda compares this car to the honda civic and toyota corolla. First of all, bad comparison, the mazda3 surpasses both these cars by far. The mazda3 offers more bang for the buck in every single possible way. You get far more features then both other cars can offer, and these features are included standard, not for extra money. 22/29 is what they say, I've been getting 24.5 miles per gallon,50/50 streets/highway. LOVE the car.
Better than the last.. BY FAR!
LVMAZDAtres, 02/20/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My last car was an 02 Mitsu Lancer. This Mazda3, purchased about 2 weeks about, is loads better!! Handling is excellent, power is there, even on the 2.0, and it is just fun! The reason I traded the Lancer was because it was just no fun anymore. When I purchase a car I look for fuel economy, comfort, all that stuff but over all it has to be fun. You can't sign your name away and 350/m for 5 years if it isn't going to be worth your while. This little Mazda certainly has proved to be so far.
Very happy
Tim W, 03/01/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring Value 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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?
My Mazda 3 S Touring
William Schwarz, 08/17/2007
2008 Mazda 3 s Touring 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
Zoom zoom
rob, 08/14/2007
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just got home from the dealership, I really love this car. It's got a sweet interior. I test drove an 07 Civic LX sedan and this had more power, not much by horsepower, but I think the Mazda3 is also lighter, so it has a higher power to weight ratio. Really like the 16" rims and 4 wheel disk brakes. Real fun to drive.
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.
Smart and Practical
jtk, 10/02/2007
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We were originally considering the Civic but took a test drive in the 3 after reading positive reviews on this site (and others). Wow, what a pleasant surprise. The 3 has much more pep (especially with the manual), is better looking, and has more standard features than the comparable Civic LX. It gets fantastic gas mileage! 1500 miles on our 3, and we're averaging around 30 to 33 mpg with about a 50/50 city/highway driving. Granted, it's no BMW or Lexus but for well under $20K, you can't go wrong.
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.
2008 Mazda 3 GT Manual
Mazda 3 GT, 11/06/2007
2008 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I researched vehicles in this class for about a year and chose the Mazda3 as best option. I am very pleased thus far. I got 38.9 miles per gallon on initial interstate trip 1000 miles and it rolled right down the road without exhausting me. The glove box holds a lot, and it has nice little cubbies and cup holders. It has good pep. On my way home from work I have a terrible entrance ramp to get on to interstate and it is scary. My Mazda gets right out there with plenty of pep. I added a few little accessories to doll it up, like a spoiler and a mask, and it actually turnes some heads.Two improvements would be key fob for trunk and better quality carpet. I am very pleased thus far, ZOOM ZOOM!
A worthy little sedan
Jefferson, 11/19/2007
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I needed a reliable vehicle with good fuel economy. The 3 was my final choice. So far I'm pleased with the car. I've put about 800 miles on it and it's averaged 33 mpg thus far. The 2 liter engine has adequate pickup, but I would recommend the 2.3 if you don't mind paying about $1000 more. I test drove models with both engines. The brakes are very good and the handling is excellent. The build quality is very solid. The interior is very well laid out and materials are of high quality. Road noise is very pronounced at highway speeds.
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.
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.
So far so good!
Guido, 03/24/2008
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
I got my 4 door SGT in electric blue (best color ever) on 3/22/08. So far so good, I love this car! I did a lot of city driving over the weekend and I only used a half a tank of gas, which is not too bad. The interior of the car is beautiful with the black leather and the high end material. I had my brother-in-law drive the car and he asked me if it was a six cylinder, the car has got some pep in its step! You really do get a lot for your money! The drive is nice and quiet and the xenon headlights are better than my 05 maxima. Everytime I step in this Mazda3 I really do feel the ZOOM ZOOM ZOOM. Great car!
Mazda3 Grand Touring Automatic
Gerry, 03/30/2008
2008 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Got the Grand touring model, in Grey Mica, for my 19 year old daughter; Only option was the Moonroof Package, which included the Bose Stereo, 6 CD. Everything else was included: leather, climate control, heated seats, stability & traction control, side & head airbags. For 20k I thought this was a great little car. Other cars being considered were the Scion tC & HB. The car is quick for a 4 cylinder & very much fun to drive. Handles great. After 3000 miles we are getting about 24 miles per gal but that is mostly local driving. Buy one!
I love this car
Lee C, 04/03/2008
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 been having a lot of fun driving my Mazda 3 since I purchased it. I don't travel very far each day, but it is always a pleasure to get into it, except for the trunk issue where I stow my gym bag every day. I am getting pretty good gas mileage - at least what was expected - or better.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
WOW! Nice car
Mike, 05/05/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring Value 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Before you buy a Nissan Sentra, Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic. You owe it to yourself to try out the Mazda3. The 3 handles great, incredible brakes! Very comfortable seats. Nice ride. Looks great! The manual mode in the auto shifter is a nice feature.
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.
great car
mazdaowner, 05/12/2008
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring Value 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Have had mazdas and still own them, but like this interior layout. Seats not as comfortable as the older protege, but pretty good. Much quieter than the protege. Love the value edition. Homelink mirror works great and got rid of garage door openers from the visor. Wish the fuel economy was better, but it gets what it's rated for. Hope this helps
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. 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.
Many pros - one con
Dairyland Purchaser, 05/27/2008
2008 Mazda 3 s Grand Touring 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Overall I am having a great experience driving the Mazda3s GT. It truly does want to zoom-zoom. I love the car. The only negative is that it is hard to read the instrument dials in bright sunshine. I cannot rate the reliability as I bought the car new, but I am counting on it lasting many years.
It's a lovable zippy well-made economy car
J K, 05/23/2021
2008 Mazda 3 s Sport 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
For the price, my 2008 Mazda 3 s sport has 3 things that first come to mind: superb handling, great interior, and a pleasantly effective engine (the 2.3l). This car is a great little thing and buying one used as your first car will bring a smile to your face for sure. I urge others to buy this thing so that Mazda can keep making fun little buggers like this. The only things I regret is not taking the effort to find a hatchback or a Mazdaspeed.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Safety
M3Owner, 01/25/2008
2008 Mazda 3 s Sport 4dr Sedan w/Prod. End 12/07 (2.3L 4cyl 5A)
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
I purchased the 2008 Mazda3 Sport for my teenage son based on the excellent safety ratings this car received. I purposely chose the "S" model as side air impact bags were standard. Unfortunately we had the opportunity to test the SRS system in a recent accident which leads me to this review so others are not taken in by the false safety ratings that Mazda publishes. The car suffered significant damage on both passenger side doors and in my case the air bags did not deploy. I suffered serious injuries that could have been prevented if they had. When I called Mazda No. Am. I was told there was no one I could speak with and should persue through a lawyer or my insurance. Beware!!
Nice small car
arizonadragger, 08/04/2012
2008 Mazda 3 i Touring Value 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 10 people found this review helpful
I bought my 3 for the looks and mpgs. But wasnt thrilled by the mpgs after tracking them for 2 years (24mpg avg). I do a lot of city driving, but expected a little better, hwy wasnt that impressive either, 28-30 most the time. I would blame the 4 speed auto, just not enough gears to go through in the mountains. The cruise control is horrible, set it at 60 and it goes past 65 when it switches gears to accel. Accels down hills in cruise control. Wanted to use a family car but the 3 star rear side crash rating is too scary. Solo city driving, its a very nice car. But I had to sell because it was a terrible roadtrip car that just isnt safe enough.