2009 Mazda MAZDA3 Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
The 2009 MAZDA3 sedan/hatchback returns unchanged in preparation for a major redesign and power boost for the 2010 version. This popular...
The 2009 MAZDA3 sedan/hatchback returns unchanged in preparation for a major redesign and power boost for the 2010 version. 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.
Eight trims are divided into two categories (i and s) depending on their powertrain. Those with the i designation house a 2.0-liter, 148-hp inline-four engine that delivers 22/30 mpg, while the s trims receive a 2.3-liter, 156-hp inline-four with fuel ratings around 21/29 mpg. Both come paired with a choice of 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic. Sedans come in both i (Sport and Touring Value) and s (Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring) trims, while the hatch is offered only with the s powertrain. Nominally standing for “sport,” s trims feature larger wheels, electroluminescent gauges, and unique front and rear fascias.
The 2009 MAZDA3 still earns only three and four stars in crash tests, despite coming standard with 4-wheel ABS brakes and dual front-side and side curtain airbags. Moving up to the s Touring and Grand Touring gets you standard traction and stability control. The MAZDA3 excels in its equipment list, offering features not often seen in compacts. The base Sport includes tilt and telescopic steering, wheel-mounted audio controls, and a CD/MP3 player. That sounds good, until you realize there's no air-conditioning. Better to move up to the Touring trims, which add power accessories, cruise control, and leather trim. The s Grand Touring peaks with a 6-way power driver's seat, heated leather seats, a trip computer, and xenon headlights.
Though not as roomy as the Civic, the 2009 Mazda3 does offer a hatchback version, which holds anywhere from 17 to 44 cubic feet (an improvement over the sedan's small 11.4-cubic-foot trunk). It also features an oversized glove box. The hatch distinguishes itself from the sedan by adding larger 17-inch wheels, side sills, a body-colored grille, and a rear spoiler, and as such comes across as the more appealing model. It's sporty bold looks don't scream budget car.
There's a reason sales of the MAZDA3 continue to rise every year. Its combination of nimble, responsive, and driver-connected handling add an element of fun behind the wheel, while its long list of standard features and hatchback option make it a good value at an affordable price. Major complaints focus on the lack of power and noisiness of the 2.0, both of which may be remedied with the 2010 redesign.
What owners say
"The 2009 Mazda MAZDA3 has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from owners who appreciate its sporty handling, great performance, and stylish appearance. Many drivers love its fun driving experience, reliability, and efficient gas mileage. However, some noted concerns about the stiffer ride quality and higher costs for certain tire options."
Performance - acceleration is okay for a 2.3 non-turbo. I have a short shifter and a new suspension installed that made driving much more fun. Build Quality - It has a few squeaks and rattles in the interior but they are mostly due to an upgraded motor mount and the stiff suspension. Appearance - Interior is beautiful and the exterior is also very eye catching. I am constantly finding things to do to this car. Cost of Ownership - 25-27mpg avg. with mostly back roads and in town driving. Fun Factor - This car is extremely fun to drive. It handles very well and it turns heads wherever it goes.
September 17, 2010A very nice car. it offers a lot of nice value. these are very zippy, even with the 2.0 engine. looks great for a good value-if you need a small car, this is the one! fun to drive, good mpg, nice interior and controls, good styling!
June 10, 2009In terms of appearance, I find the new 2010 Mazda3 less attractive than the old 2009 Mazda3. The there too many lines on the 2010 car and the corners on the lights pertrude out too much like eyeliner on a girl. I'm not saying its bad; it's just doesn't fit my taste. In terms of performance, I am very satisfied with my 2009 Mazda 3. I love fast sports cars and super cars. However, there is such a thing as speed limit. And unless I take the car to the track, I have no place to get everything out of the car. So in my opinion it is better to drive a slow car fast than a fast car slow. Thus, 156 horses is enough for getting around. The car stock suspensions are not too stiff, so the ride is very comfortable. The engine sound isn't robust like a muscle car, yet has a reasonable roar. The handling of the car is very smooth and love going around bends and turns. The response of the car is remarkable for its class. It isn't loose like a corolla and won't challenge you back like a civic. Through both corolla and civic are both well established and good cars in their own right. With regards to the interior, I am inpressed. When I realized that I couldn't afford more than a Mazda3 at the time, I wasn't too pleased. However, once I saw what the the car had to offer, I must say I'll have a tough time chosing my next car. I got the GT sport: and that included the Leather seats (and heated front ones) and steering wheel, with a 6 disk CD changer and BOSE speaker system. The acoustics are great and can handle the loudness and vibration of the sounds with driver and passengers shaking in the car simultaneously and seeing doubles of everything. I didn't get the navigation/GPS package so I can't tell you anything about it. To add to this the hatchback offers plenty of cargo space. This past July I move as well as helping my uncles and cousins move too. I was surpise how spacious it was when I dropped the back seats. I was able to carry just as much if not more compared to my uncles' camry and Grand Cherokee(NO JOKE!!!). For me this car is a perfect combination of practicality, fun, basic luxury, and getting it in black with stock 18inch rims from Mazda, classy too.
September 14, 2010What owners say
Performance - acceleration is okay for a 2.3 non-turbo. I have a short shifter and a new suspension installed that made driving much more fun. Build Quality - It has a few squeaks and rattles in the interior but they are mostly due to an upgraded motor mount and the stiff suspension. Appearance - Interior is beautiful and the exterior is also very eye catching. I am constantly finding things to do to this car. Cost of Ownership - 25-27mpg avg. with mostly back roads and in town driving. Fun Factor - This car is extremely fun to drive. It handles very well and it turns heads wherever it goes.
September 17, 2010A very nice car. it offers a lot of nice value. these are very zippy, even with the 2.0 engine. looks great for a good value-if you need a small car, this is the one! fun to drive, good mpg, nice interior and controls, good styling!
June 10, 2009In terms of appearance, I find the new 2010 Mazda3 less attractive than the old 2009 Mazda3. The there too many lines on the 2010 car and the corners on the lights pertrude out too much like eyeliner on a girl. I'm not saying its bad; it's just doesn't fit my taste. In terms of performance, I am very satisfied with my 2009 Mazda 3. I love fast sports cars and super cars. However, there is such a thing as speed limit. And unless I take the car to the track, I have no place to get everything out of the car. So in my opinion it is better to drive a slow car fast than a fast car slow. Thus, 156 horses is enough for getting around. The car stock suspensions are not too stiff, so the ride is very comfortable. The engine sound isn't robust like a muscle car, yet has a reasonable roar. The handling of the car is very smooth and love going around bends and turns. The response of the car is remarkable for its class. It isn't loose like a corolla and won't challenge you back like a civic. Through both corolla and civic are both well established and good cars in their own right. With regards to the interior, I am inpressed. When I realized that I couldn't afford more than a Mazda3 at the time, I wasn't too pleased. However, once I saw what the the car had to offer, I must say I'll have a tough time chosing my next car. I got the GT sport: and that included the Leather seats (and heated front ones) and steering wheel, with a 6 disk CD changer and BOSE speaker system. The acoustics are great and can handle the loudness and vibration of the sounds with driver and passengers shaking in the car simultaneously and seeing doubles of everything. I didn't get the navigation/GPS package so I can't tell you anything about it. To add to this the hatchback offers plenty of cargo space. This past July I move as well as helping my uncles and cousins move too. I was surpise how spacious it was when I dropped the back seats. I was able to carry just as much if not more compared to my uncles' camry and Grand Cherokee(NO JOKE!!!). For me this car is a perfect combination of practicality, fun, basic luxury, and getting it in black with stock 18inch rims from Mazda, classy too.
September 14, 2010The Mazda3 is a good reliable car. It offers tremendous versatility. It combines sporty performance, economic value, and practicality. The hatchback is spacious, and the seats are comfortable. All in all, this car is well worth the money. Performance, Reliability, Practicality all in one concise package.
August 15, 2012My review on this car is that it is amazing. The performace is amazing as well. The brakes are awsome and have saved me a couple of times. And the turn radius is redicuolus. As for apperance, well just look at one. They look sporty and are not gender specific. And they are just a great car to drive and to sup up.
July 18, 2009I love this car! Has the sport compact look but is still really roomy. There are so many options for Mazda3 owners when it comes to modifications. It is such a fun car and is a great value on gas!
June 30, 2009It had very good features. I think this model year is a good value based on reports. There is nothing missing. I compare it to VW Jetta, Toyota sedans, and Honda sedans.
March 8, 2024Good car for commuting, even better for long distances. If you are in the market for a sedan I highly recommend this car if you like the mpg and look of the mazda3. Very reliable, little maintenance required great first car.
August 14, 2013Great car for the money. I went with the 5 speed manual so it's fun to drive. I average 25 MPG. copper red. 7,000 miles and no maintenance issues to speak of at this point. I wish it had more HP and quicker acceleration.
November 3, 2009likes-- stunning looks , superb handling, lots off space and good mileage, fun to drive, maintenance free, comes with all gadgets bluetooth, ipod and aux- in, interior and exterior styling goes along good -- last but not the least mazda ROCKZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ dislikes-- ???????? yup none
October 4, 2009Trims & specs
Base MSRP $17,095 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.0L 148 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 11.5 cu ft |
Combined MPG 28 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $14,690 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.0L 148 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 11.5 cu ft |
Combined MPG 26 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $20,895 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.3L 156 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 17.1 cu ft |
Combined MPG 25 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $20,895 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.3L 156 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 11.5 cu ft |
Combined MPG 25 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $18,625 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.3L 156 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 17.1 cu ft |
Combined MPG 25 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $18,135 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.3L 156 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 11.5 cu ft |
Combined MPG 25 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $19,125 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.3L 156 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 17.1 cu ft |
Combined MPG 25 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $19,125 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.3L 156 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 11.5 cu ft |
Combined MPG 25 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP N/A | Seating N/A |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
