Mazda 3 2003–2006 car dimensions: 4420 mm long, 1755 mm wide and 1465 mm high. Unladen weight is 1,255 kg. Braked towing is 1,300 kg.
The cabin offers a driver-focused layout with tilt/telescopic steering wheel and steering-wheel audio controls as standard. Air conditioning is standard on higher trims and optional on base models, with automatic climate control available on top grades. Cruise control is standard on s and Sport models or via packages. Parking sensors are available as an accessory. No advanced driver aids like AEB, blind-spot warning or lane keep are fitted. Optional DVD navigation provides a pop-up screen on select trims.
The 5-door hatchback provides 300 litres of boot space with seats up, expanding to 635 litres with the 60/40 split-folding rear seats down. A cargo cover is fitted on higher trims.
Towing capacity reaches up to 1300 kg braked and 550 kg unbraked depending on engine and market, with a detachable tow bar available as an accessory. Payload is around 510 kg. The car suits light work use with its practical hatch layout but lacks heavy-duty cooling options.
The cabin is roomy with class-leading shoulder room and good knee clearance for four adults. Front bucket seats are supportive with height and lumbar adjustment on higher grades. Tilt and telescopic steering wheel is standard. Available power sliding-glass moonroof with sunshade. Quality materials and ergonomic layout make it comfortable for daily driving and longer trips.
Fuel economy 25 city/32 highway mpg manual 2.3L
Oil and filter every 7,500 miles or 12 months normal use
Euro NCAP 4 stars adult occupant
Standard dual front airbags, pretensioners with force limiters, 3-point belts all seats, 4-wheel discs
ABS with EBD standard on s grades, available on i
Side-impact airbags and curtains available or standard on higher grades
The 2.3L engine in the 5-door returns 25 mpg city and 32 highway with the manual gearbox. The optional automatic is rated lower at around 24/29. Regular unleaded fuel is specified. Timing chain needs no scheduled replacement.
Follow the normal schedule for oil and filter changes every 7,500 miles or 12 months. Severe use shortens that to 3,000 miles or 3 months. Coolant first change at 60,000 miles or 4 years. Spark plugs at 75,000 miles. Tire rotation every 7,500 miles.
Crash structure uses three-fork design and Triple-H reinforcements for a rigid safety cage. Dual front airbags with sensors are standard. Side airbags and curtains come in packages or on Touring/Grand Touring. ABS and Brake Assist are standard or available. Collapsible pedal and steering column help reduce injury. Rated 4 stars in Euro NCAP and ANCAP tests with side/curtain airbags fitted.
The hatch offers 17 cubic feet cargo space expanding to 31 with 60/40 split rear seats folded nearly flat. Removable cargo cover is standard on 5-door. Practical storage includes large glovebox and console. Regular servicing keeps it reliable for everyday use.
Length 4420 mm, Width 1755 mm, Height 1465 mm, Wheelbase 2640 mm (3 2003–2006)
Sources: manufacturer data, Mazda UK 2004 brochure, Mazda USA 2004-2006 technical specs sheets.