Mazda 3 reviews

have really enjoyed driving this car it as good as having an automatic as the 6 gear box handles exceptionally well

The 2.0l chain cam engine was the reason for buying this particular model.(Owing to various cambelt problems in past.) It has proved to be relatively economical in its class. (A regular 33-34mpg and up to 40mpg on a run during summer months - 10% less in winter). The performance is adequate rather than sparkling. It handles well and is good to drive, feeling solid on the road. The size and accommodation is practical as a family car - up to 4 persons, but is a compromise for luggage space. With the rear seats folded down it can swallow a fair load. I bought it 2nd hand at £5000 with 40K miles on but needed to replace wheel bearings, suspension bushes and brakes soon after (probably age rather than wear related.) Have done 50K miles in 3 years since without problems. I would recommend Mazda 3 to others seeking a straightforward mid-range hatchback.

Bought as a slight "downsize" from a Saab, in the hope of reduced fuel costs and good reliability, without much loss of practicality and carrying capacity. Working out well so far.

Owned car from new. Been very happy with this car - good to drive, practical size and very reliable. Only negative is the occasional large-ish bill for diesel related extras.

Excellent car, well built and easy to drive. Economy could be better, but it is a sport model, so gearing is more for spirited driving rather than economy. Still turns out about 45mpg on average, will do more if you're careful.

A great small car that has been reliable and economic to run. (it has now 35000 miles on the clock.) Being double overhead cam, it is quite nippy as well.The dashboard is well laid out with all info. easy to read and the steering wheel buttons and switches are easy to get used to. It has good suspension which makes a comfortable and safe ride.

I have thoroughly enjoyed having this car it is a dream to drive with a very sensitive gear box you could almost be driving an automatic and i would buy this model again

Bought this car second hand from a dealer & it has had very few problems in the 5 years of ownership. It passes its MOT without needing major work & the only glitch was a failing battery after 4 years & an altimeter that needed changing. However, the annual road tax is quite high & increases every year.

A good spacious reliable car used daily

This is my second Mazda. Like the first (Mazda 6, 2.0 petrol) it has been extremely reliable, practical and comfortable. It is very economical on longer runs, and gets a consistent 50+ mpg when used locally. I can't comment on the cost of repairs, it hasn't needed any! The car is very much the family workhorse, it looks and feels strong, doesn't complain when well loaded, and handling feels safe, even in bad conditions. Unlike it's cousin, the Focus, it looks smart rather than flashy. The only niggle I have is over rear visibility when parking - the sensors fitted by the supplier are very helpful.

having nearly always driven mazda 6 or 626s downsizing has some disadvantages. the comfort is not quite as good and with long legs you miss the extra couple of inches for them. otherwise the car is very good and i will get used to the lack of space eventually.

I would be happy to recommend the Mazda 3. Mine is now 6 years old and still running very well. It is not that economical with fuel, but that no doubt has to do with the age of the car.

A fine car for commuting or longer journeys. Comfortable drive and handles well. Fuel economy could be better. Plus a couple of manufacturers faults on electrics should have been repaired free of charge instead of down to the owner.

This is the best car I've ever had, which admittedly may not mean much as my previous car was a Rover Streetwise, the most horrendous and expensive car I've ever had both in terms of reliability and performance. Having suffered from every fault possible on the Rover (from a blown head gasket to a boot that kept flying open whilst driving), the Mazda 3 has been a dream to drive. The car is smooth running, not bad on performance and extremely reliable. It's comfortable to drive for long periods, vital with a commute of 150 miles a day. And regular servicing means I haven't had any major shocks or bills. A couple of negatives, but they're not minor issues for me: 1. Road noises seem very loud inside, the first time I drove it on a motorway I went past a lorry which sounded so loud I though I'd left the window open. But I've got used to that as it's been 5 years since I bought it. 2. Visibility out of the rear window when driving in the wet could be improved by the addition of a windscreen wiper. But hey, what are wing mirrors for... When I decide to another car, I'll definitely be looking at the Mazda 3 first.

A nippy little car, easy to drive and park and running costs good but I think the service charge every year rather steep considering we only do 5k a year, (we have a second car. As far as comfort, I think the seats are hard and after 50 miles I need to stop and stretch, it could be I an use to larger cars ie Volvo, but it's not a bad little car and my wife thinks it's great.

Have only owned the car for a few months but very pleased with it so far. Fairly nippy, comfortable and reliable. Came to us in very good condition from only one previous lady owner. Not as cheap to run as I was hoping - road tax bracket is still fairly high.

I bought a Mazda because they have a reputation for being well put together. Their reliability, comfort, performance and running costs are average. So far I am satisfied on all counts but time will tell whether I change my mind.

I love my Mazda 3 although the fuel economy is pretty rubbish! In fairness though, I only drive short journeys so that probably has an impact on the fuel economy. It's the fourth one I have had, so reliable, wouldn't want anything other than a Mazda.

I consider my car is a good car for the average family motorist .

My Mazda 3 has now done 85,000 miles and has been very reliable and served all my needs. It has been serviced regularly by the dealer who has been efficient and helpful. It has been a pleasure to drive.