Spotlight: 2004 - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
An enthusiast’s car that can be used to take the kids to school or go grocery shopping is how we’ll introduce the 2004-2009 Mazda Mazda3.
When Mazda introduced the Mazda3 back in 2004 it redefined what a compact car could be. It was offered as a hatchback or saloon. Depending on what year it can be found with i or S trim levels with Sport, Touring and Grand Touring equipment levels, there was also a Special Edition model in 2005.
The base model i comes with a fuel efficient 2 litre four cylinder engine that puts out 148 bhp. It also houses one of the best 5-speed manual gearboxes you will find around. The automatic version is solid too with a 4-speed automatic up until 2006. After 2006 Mazda added a 5-speed automatic version for upper level models. Upgraded models are powered by a larger 160 bhp 2.3 litre engine.
All Mazda3 comes fully loaded with the kind of features previously unheard of in cars of this price range. Even the 2004 base model comes with a four speaker am/fm stereo with a single disc CD player, a tilt and telescope steering wheel with audio controls and a sporty looking speedometer. Upgraded models had additional tweeters to the stereo system plus cruise control on the steering wheel and air conditioning. You can also expect to find keyless entry, electric windows and electric mirrors. You also get 16 inch alloy wheels and fog lamps.
In 2006 the top of the range Grand Touring model was added to the line-up. It came with lots of extras including heated leather seats, 17 inch alloy wheels and rain sensing windscreen wipers. It’s worth noting that both the Touring and Grand Touring versions made front and side airbags as standard in 2006, they were optional on all models before then.
If you ask most Mazda3 owners what they prefer they would say the automatic transmission however if you want to be more involved with the driving of the car then the manual version is simply more fun.
Based on the model, year and transmission you choose the 2 litre engine should get you about 24 miles to the gallon (mpg) around the town and between 26-29 miles on the motorway. The steering on the Mazda3 is so well balanced that it needs almost no correction when coming out of tight bends. The suspension is tort without being harsh and the brakes are good. The only thing to be aware of is that the earlier versions did lack traction and stability controls so look for a model that has them. If you find an example model without these features then you can always ask the seller to knock a little off their asking price.
It’s no wonder the Mazda3 continues to receive good press. No matter what consumer website you look at they will always give these cars good marks. However, the most common complaint is front strut failure at around 50k miles so check to see if they are still in good shape on any car that you’re looking to buy.
The Mazda3’s closest competition is the Honda Civic and the Volkswagen Golf. However, the Civic doesn’t quite match the Mazda for handling, power or comfort. Although the Volkswagen Golf GTi is certainly faster it’s pricier and not as reliable. If you’re looking to buy a Mazda3 then you should really be looking at the Touring and Grand Touring models. Whether you’re looking for a funky hot hatch or an attractive family saloon then you can’t go much wrong with the 2004-2009 Mazda3.
