The 2007 Mazda MAZDA3 is a standout in the compact car segment, part of the first generation (2004-2009). Available as a stylish 4-door sedan or versatile 5-door hatchback, it replaced the Protegé and quickly earned a reputation for its "Zoom-Zoom" driving dynamics. Key trims include the 'i' and sportier 's' models. New pricing ranged roughly from $14,000 to $20,000, making its engaging performance and premium interior feel remarkably accessible.
The Good
The 2007 MAZDA3 offers an emotionally appealing, agile "Zoom-Zoom" driving experience with responsive handling and a stylish design. Practically, it delivers good fuel efficiency, reputable reliability, competitive pricing, a comfortable interior for its class, and strong overall value, making it a smart choice for diverse buyers.
The Bad
Potential buyers should watch out for rust, especially on rear wheel wells and rocker panels, which is a common concern. Power steering pump failures are also frequently reported, leading to stiff steering or loss of assist. Additionally, some interior plastics are prone to scratches, and road noise can be noticeable at highway speeds.
2007 Mazda MAZDA3: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
2.0L DOHC 16-valve I4 (standard in MAZDA3 i)
2.3L DOHC 16-valve I4 (standard in MAZDA3 s) - Horsepower:
2.0L: 148 hp @ 6500 rpm (144 hp for PZEV)
2.3L: 156 hp @ 6500 rpm (151 hp for PZEV) - Fuel Economy (EPA estimated):
2.0L (Manual/Auto): 24-26 city / 31-33 highway MPG
2.3L (Manual/Auto): 22-23 city / 29-30 highway MPG - 0-60 mph (approximate):
2.0L: ~8.5-9.5 seconds
2.3L: ~7.5-8.5 seconds - Towing Capacity:
The 2007 Mazda MAZDA3 was generally not rated or recommended for significant towing in the U.S. market. While small unbraked trailers might technically be pulled, official capacities were not published. - Trim-Level Features:
MAZDA3 i: This base trim typically included 15-inch steel wheels, power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, and an AM/FM/CD audio system with 4 speakers. It came standard with driver and front passenger airbags.
MAZDA3 s: The sportier 's' trim upgraded to the more powerful 2.3L engine, 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, a sport-tuned suspension, and unique exterior styling. Interior enhancements included upgraded cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, and a 6-speaker audio system. Optional packages for the 's' model could add heated leather seats, automatic climate control, Xenon HID headlights, and a premium Bose audio system. Available safety options across trims included ABS with EBD, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags, and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Traction Control System (TCS).
2007 Mazda MAZDA3 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2007 |
| Make | Mazda |
| Model | MAZDA3 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | HIROSHIMA |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | LFD (2.0L) Federal |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 2007 Mazda MAZDA3 Have?
The 2007 Mazda MAZDA3, while generally reliable, has several frequently reported problems and long-term concerns that potential owners should be aware of.
One of the most widespread issues across the first-generation MAZDA3, including the 2007 model, is power steering pump failure. Owners often report a loud whining noise, followed by stiff steering or a complete loss of power assist. This can necessitate an expensive replacement of the pump or, in some cases, the entire steering rack.
Another significant concern, particularly in regions that experience road salt, is rust. Common areas for rust development include the rear wheel wells, rocker panels, and even parts of the subframe. This issue can severely impact the vehicle's longevity and structural integrity if not addressed.
Premature wear of front lower control arm bushings can lead to clunking noises over bumps and contribute to uneven tire wear, requiring replacement. The passenger side motor mount is also known to fail, causing excessive engine vibration, especially at idle.
Less common but reported electrical issues include flickering headlights, faulty window switches, or problems with the instrument cluster. Some owners have also experienced issues with the A/C compressor failing or developing leaks over time.
Regarding recalls, the 2007 MAZDA3 was involved in:
Long-term reliability of the engine and transmission is generally good with proper maintenance. However, the prevalence of rust and power steering issues are significant detractors that require vigilance and can lead to notable repair costs over the vehicle's lifespan.
One of the most widespread issues across the first-generation MAZDA3, including the 2007 model, is power steering pump failure. Owners often report a loud whining noise, followed by stiff steering or a complete loss of power assist. This can necessitate an expensive replacement of the pump or, in some cases, the entire steering rack.
Another significant concern, particularly in regions that experience road salt, is rust. Common areas for rust development include the rear wheel wells, rocker panels, and even parts of the subframe. This issue can severely impact the vehicle's longevity and structural integrity if not addressed.
Premature wear of front lower control arm bushings can lead to clunking noises over bumps and contribute to uneven tire wear, requiring replacement. The passenger side motor mount is also known to fail, causing excessive engine vibration, especially at idle.
Less common but reported electrical issues include flickering headlights, faulty window switches, or problems with the instrument cluster. Some owners have also experienced issues with the A/C compressor failing or developing leaks over time.
Regarding recalls, the 2007 MAZDA3 was involved in:
- Recall 07V-232 (2007): This recall addressed an improperly manufactured fuel hose in certain 2007-2009 models, which could crack and leak, posing a fire risk. The fix involved replacing the fuel hose.
- Recall 15V-451 (2015): This was a later recall concerning power steering pump wiring in 2007-2009 MAZDA3s. Corrosion in the wiring harness connector could lead to a loss of power steering assist, building upon earlier extended warranty programs.
Long-term reliability of the engine and transmission is generally good with proper maintenance. However, the prevalence of rust and power steering issues are significant detractors that require vigilance and can lead to notable repair costs over the vehicle's lifespan.
How long will the 2007 Mazda MAZDA3 last?
With consistent and diligent maintenance, a 2007 Mazda MAZDA3 can reliably achieve an average lifespan of 150,000 to 200,000 miles, with many well-kept examples exceeding 250,000 miles. This translates to 15 or more years of service. The core engine and manual transmissions are quite durable. Automatic transmissions also hold up well if fluid changes are performed regularly.
However, long-term durability is significantly impacted by a few key weaknesses. The primary detractor is body rust, particularly in areas exposed to road salt, which can compromise structural integrity. Power steering pump failures are another common age-related issue that can be costly. Suspension components like control arm bushings and motor mounts also wear out over time, affecting ride quality. Proactive maintenance and rust prevention are crucial to maximizing the MAZDA3's usable life beyond these known concerns.
However, long-term durability is significantly impacted by a few key weaknesses. The primary detractor is body rust, particularly in areas exposed to road salt, which can compromise structural integrity. Power steering pump failures are another common age-related issue that can be costly. Suspension components like control arm bushings and motor mounts also wear out over time, affecting ride quality. Proactive maintenance and rust prevention are crucial to maximizing the MAZDA3's usable life beyond these known concerns.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2007 Mazda MAZDA3 offered a respectable suite of features for its time and class.
Built-in Tech & Entertainment: Standard 'i' models came with an AM/FM/CD player and 4 speakers. The 's' trim upgraded to a 6-speaker system. Optional features included a 6-disc in-dash CD changer, Sirius satellite radio compatibility, and a premium Bose audio system for enhanced sound. A basic auxiliary audio input jack became available, though sometimes limited to specific audio packages or later production runs. A rudimentary, integrated navigation system was also an option on top trims but is quite rare to find today. Connectivity was basic, typical of compact cars from this era.
Driver-Assistance Features: In 2007, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, or adaptive cruise control were not available on the MAZDA3 or most compact cars in its segment.
Safety Features: Standard safety features included dual front airbags for the driver and passenger. Critically, optional safety equipment included front side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags, which significantly enhanced occupant protection. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) was also an option, as was Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Traction Control System (TCS), primarily available on 's' models with the larger engine, providing essential active safety.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2007 MAZDA3 performed well in independent crash tests:
These ratings highlight the importance of finding a MAZDA3 equipped with the optional side airbags for optimal safety.
Built-in Tech & Entertainment: Standard 'i' models came with an AM/FM/CD player and 4 speakers. The 's' trim upgraded to a 6-speaker system. Optional features included a 6-disc in-dash CD changer, Sirius satellite radio compatibility, and a premium Bose audio system for enhanced sound. A basic auxiliary audio input jack became available, though sometimes limited to specific audio packages or later production runs. A rudimentary, integrated navigation system was also an option on top trims but is quite rare to find today. Connectivity was basic, typical of compact cars from this era.
Driver-Assistance Features: In 2007, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, or adaptive cruise control were not available on the MAZDA3 or most compact cars in its segment.
Safety Features: Standard safety features included dual front airbags for the driver and passenger. Critically, optional safety equipment included front side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags, which significantly enhanced occupant protection. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) was also an option, as was Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Traction Control System (TCS), primarily available on 's' models with the larger engine, providing essential active safety.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2007 MAZDA3 performed well in independent crash tests:
- NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration):
Frontal Crash (Driver): 5 out of 5 stars
Frontal Crash (Passenger): 5 out of 5 stars
Side Impact (Front Seat, with side airbags): 4 out of 5 stars
Side Impact (Rear Seat, with side airbags): 3 out of 5 stars
Rollover: 4 out of 5 stars - IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety):
Moderate Overlap Front: "Good" (highest rating)
Side Impact: "Acceptable" (with optional side airbags) or "Poor" (without side airbags)
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraints: "Good"
Roof Strength: Not rated for 2007 models.
These ratings highlight the importance of finding a MAZDA3 equipped with the optional side airbags for optimal safety.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2007 Mazda MAZDA3 Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2007 Mazda MAZDA3 had an MSRP ranging from approximately $13,795 for a base 'i' sedan to over $20,500 for a fully optioned 's' hatchback.
In the current used market (late 2023/early 2024), prices typically range from $2,500 to $6,500, varying greatly based on condition, mileage, and trim. Well-maintained 's' hatchbacks command higher prices, while rust-affected 'i' sedans are at the lower end.
Depreciation insights show the MAZDA3, like most compacts, lost significant value in its first 5-7 years. By now, a 2007 model has largely reached its depreciation floor, meaning its value won't drop much further unless its condition degrades significantly. Factors affecting resale value include the absence of rust, a comprehensive maintenance history, lower mileage, and the desirable 's' hatchback trim. Evidence of addressed common issues, such as power steering replacement, can also bolster value.
In the current used market (late 2023/early 2024), prices typically range from $2,500 to $6,500, varying greatly based on condition, mileage, and trim. Well-maintained 's' hatchbacks command higher prices, while rust-affected 'i' sedans are at the lower end.
Depreciation insights show the MAZDA3, like most compacts, lost significant value in its first 5-7 years. By now, a 2007 model has largely reached its depreciation floor, meaning its value won't drop much further unless its condition degrades significantly. Factors affecting resale value include the absence of rust, a comprehensive maintenance history, lower mileage, and the desirable 's' hatchback trim. Evidence of addressed common issues, such as power steering replacement, can also bolster value.
2007 Mazda MAZDA3 Cost of Ownership
The 2007 Mazda MAZDA3 is generally an economical vehicle to own.
Insurance: Premiums are typically low, reflecting its status as an older, compact car.
Fuel: It offers good fuel economy, especially the 2.0L engine, and runs on regular unleaded gasoline, keeping daily running costs down.
Maintenance: Routine maintenance (oil changes, filters, brakes) is affordable due to readily available and reasonably priced parts.
Repair: While routine fixes are cheap, known issues like power steering pump failures or extensive rust repair can be costly. However, many independent mechanics are familiar with the model, offering competitive labor rates.
Long-Term Ownership: Despite potential "big ticket" repairs, its low fuel and insurance costs, combined with affordable routine servicing, make it an economical choice for a daily driver.
Insurance: Premiums are typically low, reflecting its status as an older, compact car.
Fuel: It offers good fuel economy, especially the 2.0L engine, and runs on regular unleaded gasoline, keeping daily running costs down.
Maintenance: Routine maintenance (oil changes, filters, brakes) is affordable due to readily available and reasonably priced parts.
Repair: While routine fixes are cheap, known issues like power steering pump failures or extensive rust repair can be costly. However, many independent mechanics are familiar with the model, offering competitive labor rates.
Long-Term Ownership: Despite potential "big ticket" repairs, its low fuel and insurance costs, combined with affordable routine servicing, make it an economical choice for a daily driver.
2007 Mazda MAZDA3 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
24 gallons
City Mileage
23 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
31 miles/gallon
2007 Mazda MAZDA3 Safety Rating
NHTSA
2007 Mazda MAZDA3 Insurance
Insurance for a 2007 Mazda MAZDA3 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Hatchback with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2007 Mazda MAZDA3 Compare to Other Hatchback?
The 2007 Mazda MAZDA3 competed fiercely against rivals like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, and Hyundai Elantra.
In terms of performance, the MAZDA3, especially the 's' trim, often outshone most competitors with its "Zoom-Zoom" driving dynamics. Its responsive steering and well-tuned suspension delivered a more engaging and fun experience than the typically more sedate Corolla or Elantra. The Civic offered comparable handling, but the MAZDA3 frequently felt a touch sportier. The Ford Focus also provided decent dynamics, but often with less interior refinement.
Regarding features, the MAZDA3 offered a strong package for its class, with its interior materials often feeling a step above the Corolla or Elantra. Optional features like the Bose audio system and Xenon headlights on top trims provided a near-premium feel. The Civic also came well-equipped, while Focus and Elantra tended to be more budget-focused in their standard offerings.
When it comes to reliability, the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic generally hold the benchmark for long-term, trouble-free ownership. The MAZDA3 is reliable overall but has known widespread issues, particularly power steering pump failures and rust, which can be more significant long-term concerns than those typically found in its Japanese counterparts. Ford Focus and Hyundai Elantra of this vintage had varying reliability, sometimes with transmission or electrical glitches, making the MAZDA3 competitive or superior to them.
In the used market price, MAZDA3s often sit slightly below comparable Civics and Corollas due to their perceived reliability edge. This makes the MAZDA3 an attractive value proposition for buyers.
Recommendations:
In terms of performance, the MAZDA3, especially the 's' trim, often outshone most competitors with its "Zoom-Zoom" driving dynamics. Its responsive steering and well-tuned suspension delivered a more engaging and fun experience than the typically more sedate Corolla or Elantra. The Civic offered comparable handling, but the MAZDA3 frequently felt a touch sportier. The Ford Focus also provided decent dynamics, but often with less interior refinement.
Regarding features, the MAZDA3 offered a strong package for its class, with its interior materials often feeling a step above the Corolla or Elantra. Optional features like the Bose audio system and Xenon headlights on top trims provided a near-premium feel. The Civic also came well-equipped, while Focus and Elantra tended to be more budget-focused in their standard offerings.
When it comes to reliability, the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic generally hold the benchmark for long-term, trouble-free ownership. The MAZDA3 is reliable overall but has known widespread issues, particularly power steering pump failures and rust, which can be more significant long-term concerns than those typically found in its Japanese counterparts. Ford Focus and Hyundai Elantra of this vintage had varying reliability, sometimes with transmission or electrical glitches, making the MAZDA3 competitive or superior to them.
In the used market price, MAZDA3s often sit slightly below comparable Civics and Corollas due to their perceived reliability edge. This makes the MAZDA3 an attractive value proposition for buyers.
Recommendations:
- For ultimate reliability/minimal fuss: A used 2007 Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla would likely present fewer long-term mechanical surprises, though they might sacrifice some of the MAZDA3's driving excitement.
- For similar driving enjoyment: A 2007 Ford Focus (especially ST models) could offer a comparable "driver's car" feel, though with different potential reliability considerations. Volkswagen Jetta or Golf from the same era also offer European driving dynamics but often entail higher maintenance costs.
Final Verdict: Is the 2007 Mazda MAZDA3 a Good Hatchback?
The 2007 Mazda MAZDA3 is ideal for drivers who desire an affordable, compact car that doesn't skimp on driving fun. It particularly suits first-time car buyers, students, or small families appreciating its responsive handling, stylish design (especially the versatile hatchback), and well-appointed interior for its class. It's perfect for those seeking more "Zoom-Zoom" than a typical econobox.
Yes, it can be absolutely worth buying as a used vehicle in 2024, but with critical conditions. Always purchase a used model and insist on a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, specifically checking for rust (rocker panels, wheel wells, subframe), power steering health, and motor mount condition. The 's' trim, especially the hatchback, offers the best blend of performance and features. Avoid cars from salt-belt states without documented rust remediation. If you find a well-maintained, rust-free MAZDA3 with a comprehensive service history, it represents fantastic value as a fun and practical daily driver.
Yes, it can be absolutely worth buying as a used vehicle in 2024, but with critical conditions. Always purchase a used model and insist on a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, specifically checking for rust (rocker panels, wheel wells, subframe), power steering health, and motor mount condition. The 's' trim, especially the hatchback, offers the best blend of performance and features. Avoid cars from salt-belt states without documented rust remediation. If you find a well-maintained, rust-free MAZDA3 with a comprehensive service history, it represents fantastic value as a fun and practical daily driver.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.