2008 Mazda MAZDA3 Review
The Mazda3 is a sporty compact that replaced the Protege in 2004. Two available engines, a 148-hp four-cylinder and a 156-hp horsepower four-cylinder, combine with its tight styling to deliver an exhilarating driving experience. Available as a sedan or hatchback, the MAZDA3 is both fun and flexible. It’s been a critical success, winning awards like MotorWeek’s 2004 “Driver’s Choice Award.”
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
If you want a sports car, but think you can’t afford one, the Mazda MAZDA3 is for you. It delivers incredible performance and handling for a very modest price tag. While you definitely get your money’s worth, there are a few trade-offs. The i trims are scarce on features, especially in the safety department. Fortunately, just about everything you could ask for is available with the s. Overall, the 3 is the best budget performance car you’ll find at the moment.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the MAZDA3 2.5 stars or overall mechanical quality and 2 stars for overall design quality. Problems with the 3 include overheating air conditioners, noisy brakes, engine noise, malfunctioning power windows and weak wipers. It’s been recalled twice for faulty airbag sensors and weak engine mounts. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
In government crash tests, the MAZDA3 earned 4 stars in frontal tests and 3 stars in side tests. In IIHS tests, it received a “Good” rating for the front, “Poor” for the side, and “Marginal” for the rear. Only the bare essential safety features come standard. The s includes anti-lock brakes and full side airbags, which are optional on the i. The s can be equipped with stability control.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Amazing performance for the price
+ Stylish
+ Comfortable seating
Cons
– Lack of standard safety features
– Nicer electronic features optional
– Air conditioning not standard
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Chevrolet Aveo has standard side airbags, air conditioning and power accessories for the same price. The Honda Fit includes anti-lock brakes, side airbags, air conditioning, power accessories and almost twice the cargo room. The Ford Focus S, at the same price, offers side airbags and air conditioning.
What Others Are Saying:
“…I can’t think of a better all-round value than the 5-door Mazda3. This one’s quick, stylish and cheap. Simply put: it’s fun!” – About.com
“Although the 2007 Mazda Mazdaspeed Mazda3 looks good and seems like a lot of fun at first, a few problems start to reveal themselves. While we never tire of good handling, a good stereo would also be nice.” – C|Net
“When it comes to driving pleasure, the Mazda3 owns the Toyota Corolla and more than holds its own against the increasingly bloated, visually challenged Honda Civic. While you can laud the Mazda3’s price, design, build quality, practicality and economy, the best bit is that the Japanese sedan lives up to its brand’s performance-oriented promise.” – The Truth About Cars
Read more about the 2008 Mazda MAZDA3 at the Mazda manufacturer web site.
