Responsive
Steering, handling, ride, and throttle response are nearly perfect. This car reacts to control inputs without hesitation while maintaining a comfortable ride. This is a true driver's car. No other cars in the compact class can compete. The true competition is in the near luxury class. I have owned Audi, Lexus, and Acura, and I don't feel like anything is missing from the Mazda 3. The 167hp will not win a drag race, but the power delivery is smooth with quick throttle response. Plus, there always seems to be plenty of power reserve waiting for merging and passing. Overall, I am extremely pleased with my purchase.
10,000 Miles After Purchase
We purchased our Mazda 3 to replace our old Ford Explorer. First road trip was 660 miles from Boise to Las Vegas. Comfortable (I'm 6'2"). Economical (38.65 mpg) (29mpg in town). Zoom Zoom! The car has been reliable and we're thinking of buying the hatch version now for our second car.
- s Sport 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $4,100108 mi away
- s Sport 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $4,595167 mi away
- i Touring SedanMSRP: $5,995156 mi away
Best in Class
I didn't consider this car until I couldn't get a Civic EX-L with a 5-spd; I sat in a 3 and immediately felt the level of refinement it had over the Honda--yes the "great" Honda. I love this car! It handles well, it rides well, I've gotten 33 mpg on a 2.5hr trip, and 26 mpg in mixed driving! If you're looking at compacts, you've got to try this one. Cash for clunkers worked for me!
Impressive Ride
The Mazda 3 hatchback is an incredible value. So many standard features that you would most likely have to pay extra for with other comparable brands (Honda, Toyota, Subaru). The car is a joy to drive - handling is impeccable for it's class, engine is powerful for the weight to power ratio. My decision to purchase this car was also based on the new Consumer Reports 2010 best cars, which the Mazda 3 received an excellent rating. My only concern is gas mileage. I do about 50/50 city/highway and the car computer (neat feature) is averaging 25.5 miles per gallon. I fully understood the gas mileage expectations before purchase, but it would be nice to average 30 mpg.
Love LOVE this little car
After reading all the wonderful reviews here. I test drove the mazda3 and it was love at first drive. The little car is wonderful. I traded in a Lincoln navigator and don't feel I made any compromises. I love the interior of the Mazda. It hugs the road and it truly a joy to drive. Thanks to everyone who submitted a review.. I can now zoom zoom.