2008 Mazda3

The 2008 Mazda3 is not your typical economy car, according to reviewers. They say the versatile and stylish Mazda3 incorporates athletic handling and refined engine choices. While the base-model Mazda3 has fewer standard safety features than the rival Honda Civic (*est. $14,800 to $23,250), it does have a lower starting price, and the features are available as options. The 5-door Mazda3 hatchback competes well with the highly regarded Honda Fit (*est. $13,950 to $16,070) but measures more than 20 inches longer. The Mazdaspeed3 (*est. $22,440 to $24,155) is a high-performance model, much like the Honda Civic Si (*est. $21,110 to $29,500). Altogether, reviews say each Mazda3 variant is an excellent performer and a viable alternative to Honda's compact cars.

The 2008 Mazda3 hatchback and sedan and the high-performance Mazdaspeed3 all receive abundant, mostly positive reviews. The sporty Mazdaspeed3 is one of 2008's 10 Best Cars, as chosen by editors at Car and Driver magazine, and the Mazda3 lineup is a recurring honoree at Edmunds.com. Editors at Kiplinger's Personal Finance magazine name the Mazda3 Best in Class among cars with prices starting below $20,000. Both Motor Trend and Car and Driver magazines conduct head-to-head tests in which the Mazda3 sedan and Mazdaspeed3 hatchback triumph over their competitors. Consumer Reports magazine and ConsumerGuide.com, agencies that perform comprehensive evaluations, both report on the Mazda3. A concise "Ruthless Review" from CarCritic.com addresses issues often overlooked by other publications, such as long-term reliability and retained value.