2008 Mazda MAZDA3 [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 51 Mazda3 reviews and test drives.
Mazda MAZDA3 - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Mazda MAZDA3 ranks 5 out of 29 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 51 published reviews and test drives of the Mazda MAZDA3, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Mazda3's good ranking is based on its superb handling dynamics, bold design, and luxurious appointments. Ranked in the top half of its class, the Mazda3 proves to be a smart choice for anyone wanting an affordable small car. Even so, the Honda Civic and Honda Fit lead the class and prove to be safer.
The 2008 Mazda3, which AutoWeek describes as "a gratifying small car to drive," is by all accounts praised for its superb handling dynamics, bold exterior design, and comparatively luxurious interior. In fact, the 2008 Mazda3 made Forbes' list of "Ten Best Cars for City Dwellers." Still, a cramped backseat, as well as low side-impact crash test results, prevent the Mazda3 from outranking the class leaders. Though the 2008 Mazda3 is only a refresh of last year's model, rumor has it that Mazda is planning a redesign for 2009.
The 2008 Mazda3 is available in four-door sedan and five-door hatchback body styles. While the sedan features two available trims, the i and s models, the hatchback exists only as an s model. Also available is a performance-oriented Mazdaspeed3.
- "The Mazda3 is Mazda's best-selling vehicle, and deservedly so. In the compact sedan class, where all too often cars are mere transportation appliances, with low cost and high fuel economy emphasized to the exclusion of any sort of positive driving experience, the Mazda3 is competitive on price and economy and leads the pack on its sporty character and driving characteristics." - The Auto Channel
- "It's space-efficient and exciting to drive like a European car. It's practical and economical like a Japanese car. And it's available with a surprising list of comfort and luxury features just like an American car. ... It's slightly less refined than its competition from Honda and Toyota, but you seem to get more car for your money, and that means personality as well as features." - New Car Test Drive
- "With a base 2008 Honda Civic sedan at $15,645 and a 2009 Toyota Corolla at $15,910 (both with destination included), this minor refresh maintains the Mazda3's competitive pricing, although not updating the powertrain choices certainly helps to keep prices down. The Mazda3 looks ready to do battle with the compact sedan giants for another couple years before the next generation model arrives." - Motor Trend
Mazda3 Performance - 8.0 (Very Good)
The 2008 Mazda3's performance ranking is equal with that of its class leaders, the Honda Fit and Civic. Though its base-engine offers adequate power, critics prefer its 2.3-liter s model powerplant. Handling for all trims, however, is excellent. "This is definitely a driver's car, with a firm, sweetly damped but still comfortable ride," says AutoWeek. "It has good (not great) power, and the steering is light yet precise." Continue with our full Performance Review to learn why auto writers say the Mazda3 drives like a much more expensive car. continue
Mazda3 Exterior - 7.8 (Good)
The Mazda3, which received a design refresh in 2007, is considered both bold and attractive. In fact, the Mazda3 holds the second highest exterior ranking within the class of Affordable Small Cars. According to New Car Test Drive, "The designers worked hard to give this car the kind of character that will set it apart from other compact cars, and the result is a surprisingly bold look." Continue with our full Exterior Review to learn why some auto writers compare the Mazda3 to a BMW, or go to the 2008 Mazda3 Photo Gallery and judge its styling for yourself. continue
Mazda3 Interior - 7.5 (Good)
Though auto writers criticize the 2008 Mazda3 for a lack of rear seat legroom and some complicated controls, most find that it offers comfortable seating for four, a good amount of cargo room, and luxurious appointments for its price and class. "This is a premium automobile, exciting to drive, styled adventurously, and fully equipped with luxury features," says New Car Test Drive. "There's nothing austere, basic or cheap about it." Compared to other affordable small cars, the Mazda3's interior ranks well. Continue with our full Interior Review to read about which standard and optional features critics are most excited about, or go to the 2008 Mazda3 Photo Gallery to see its expensive-looking fit and finish. continue
Mazda3 Safety - 7.3 (Good)
While the 2008 Mazda3 fares well in federal government crash tests, it performs poorly in insurance industry side-impact tests. New for 2008 are front side-impact and side-curtain airbags for all s models. Continue with our full Safety Review to read more about the Mazda3's crash test results.
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Mazda3 Reliability - 7.0 (Good)
The 2008 Mazda MAZDA3 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2008 Mazda3 comes with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Continue with our full Reliability Review to learn about the reliability expectations of auto critics. continue
