- 2010
2009 Mazda MAZDA3
- Used Mazda MAZDA3
Mazda MAZDA3 - What the Auto Press Says
The Mazda3 has an aggressive exterior design that's well-liked by reviewers, plus a zippy engine and great handling.
The 2009 Mazda3's macho styling and strong performance have helped the aging automobile stay relevant in a group of newer, fun-to-drive small cars. But the 3 does have some shortcomings that might make you think twice. For one, its solid build quality is marred by complicated cabin controls. Also, stability control still isn't offered for all of its trims and the car's safety scores are somewhat disappointing.
If these two issues concern you, the VW Rabbit might be worth some consideration. This hatchback has a pleasing amount of sport and nimble handling, plus reviewers praise its impressive standard features. Unlike the 3, the Rabbit's safety scores are among the highest of the class, partially due to its standard electronic stability program.
However, a redesign is expected for the 2010 Mazda3 that could address some of these issues. For now, there have been very few changes to the 3, and both the sedan and five-door hatchback still come in numerous trims.
- "Sportier and more fun to drive than most of its competition, the Mazda 3 is also practical and refined." -- Car and Driver
- "This popular front-wheel-drive compact outperforms many in its class, exhibiting energetic and sporty handling and performance tuning that actually bring some fun and excitement to driving an economy compact car. It lags behind the Civic and Corolla primarily in passenger room, safety ratings, and overall fuel economy." -- CarGurus
- "The Mazda 3 is going to be replaced by an all-new model for 2010. But even after six years on the market, the current car is showing no signs of age. Like fine wine or a quality indie movie (or 'Sideways,' an indie movie about fine wine), the 3 will continue to please for a long time." -- Edmunds
- "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
- "All Mazda 3s share a spirit of sporty driving fun, solid build quality, and a pleasant interior package. The availability of a hatchback body style adds flexibility as well." -- Consumer Guide
Mazda3 Performance - 8.4 (Very Good)
Critics say that the 2009 Mazda3 is one of the strongest performing vehicles in its class. Edmunds writes, "Consistent with its upscale interior, the Mazda 3 tends to drive like a much more expensive sport sedan. Thanks to its performance-oriented chassis tuning, the 3 rewards the driving enthusiast with quick and communicative steering, a lack of discernable body roll and lots of grip on twisty blacktop." Critics prefer the 3's more powerful s Models over the i trims, but most contend that whichever trim drivers choose, it's sure to please. Read More
Mazda3 Exterior - 8.0 (Very Good)
The Mazda3 continues to entice reviewers with its bold and attractive styling. In fact, most say the car exceeds the physical expectations for the class. According to Kelley Blue Book, "The MAZDA3's scorching exterior could easily have been penned by BMW or Alfa Romeo." Read More
Mazda3 Interior - 7.4 (Good)
Like many small cars, the 2009 Mazda 3 has limited legroom for back seat passengers, plus several reviewers find that the controls are complicated. But the 3 is one of only a few compacts that offers an optional navigation system. What's more, it's outfitted nicely and it has agreeable cargo room in hatchback trims. Read More
Mazda3 Safety - NA
The 3's federal government and insurance industry safety scores are not as high as other affordable small cars. Potential buyers should also note that dynamic stability control is not offered for every trim. Read More
Mazda3 Reliability - 8.0 (Very Good)
The 2009 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 2009 Mazda3 has a three-year or 36,000 mile basic warranty. Read More
