Overview & Reviews

There are affordable cars, and then there are cars that offer thrilling performance. Rarely do the two ever converge, but Japanese automaker Mazda has made it a tradition of coming up with vehicles that combine both of these eminently desirable traits.

The Toyo Cork Kogyo Company, founded in 1920 in Hiroshima, Japan, used the name "Mazda" for its first three-wheeled truck, built in 1931. Company founder Jujiro Matsuda chose the word "Mazda" because it was the name of the Zoroastrian god of good and light. Work on a small sedan began in the late 1930s, but development was halted so the company could pitch in with Japan's war effort. In the wake of World War II and the rebuilding that followed, the company refocused its efforts on car development and manufacturing.

By 1960, the first Mazda automobile -- the R360 coupe -- was developed, and the company's foray into the production of passenger vehicles began in full force. Other landmark developments were soon to follow. In 1961, the company entered into a technical partnership with NSU and Wankel to develop and produce rotary engines, a union that led to Mazda's distinguishing itself as the only manufacturer to offer three engine configurations: conventional gasoline piston, diesel and rotary. The '60s also saw the introduction of the company's first pickup, the B-Series 1500, as well as its first rotary-engine vehicle, the 110S Cosmo Sport.

Mazda began selling cars in the U.S. in 1970. In the early part of the decade, the automaker rolled out the RX-2. Powered by the noted 12A rotary, the RX-2 introduced America to Mazda's effort to build cars that were affordable and fun to drive. The decade also saw the introduction of the RX-3, RX-4 and now iconic rotary-powered RX-7 sports car. In 1979, Ford Motor Company purchased a 25 percent stake in Mazda after the Japanese company encountered a number of financial difficulties.

The 1980s was a decade of rebirth for Mazda. The company officially took on the Mazda name (though all its vehicles since its launch in the '20s have carried that brand). It also witnessed an upswing in sales sparked by successful new products like the 323 (which was first called the GLC in the American market) and 626. The 1990 model year saw the launch of a car that would prove a huge hit for Mazda: the MX-5 Miata. Lauded for its ultra-responsive handling and affordability, the drop top has been a consistent favorite, and now holds the distinction of being the world's best-selling roadster.

Mazda began the 1990s with a bang by winning Le Mans with the 787B; it was the first time a Japanese automaker had won the prestigious race, and marked the only win for a rotary engine. Vehicles like the RX-7 and MX-5 Miata scored kudos from automotive journalists, and landed on many top 10 lists. However, save for the Miata, the company's vehicles experienced declining sales in the U.S., and the company's fortunes suffered as a result.

The new millennium has seen Mazda regain its stride, as the automaker has invested in new development. Models like the Mazda 2 and CX-9 have broadened the lineup and won over a whole new generation of fans, while the enthusiast-oriented RX-8 and Mazdaspeed performance models have exemplified the company's spirited philosophy. Most recently, Mazda has focused on designing its cars to be as fuel-efficient as possible while also still being fun to drive and affordable to own.

User Reviews:

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  Love my First Mazda!! - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By R Mcintyre - July 27 - 10:00 am

  This is my first attempt at having a non-GM vehicle and I have been extremely happy. I have already put 10,000 miles on my Tribute and have not had any problems with it to date. The only options I bought were the in dash 6 disc CD changer and ABS. I checked all the other SUVs out at the time and this was the best value by far. I think it has classier exterior styling than its counterpart, the Ford Escape.

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  Our second Mazda6 - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Otis - July 25 - 12:03 pm

  Previously owned an 03 V6 sedan. Traded for a convertible but she missed the zoom zoom of her 6 so much that we came back and got a loaded up 05 V6 5 speed sport hatchback (actually all hatchbacks have the sport package unlike my earlier sedan). This car is great. A ton of fun for the money and has many features found in more expensive cars. V6/manual transmission combo is hard to find elsewhere. 220hp was a lot a few years ago but others have caught up or do better now. Suspension dynamics are fantastic, this car wants to bolt around town at 60+ mph! Styling is fresh and unique. Highly recommended. Some 2005s are still around (as of early 2006) and could be a steal. MSRP of $27,700 cost me $21,300!

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  This is a good car - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By mtrblkd - July 24 - 7:23 am

  We bought this car on Mothers Day weekend 2005. We have put almost 24,000 miles on it in less than a year. We love it and couldnt be happier. The car has performed beyond my expectations. My wife says its a tad uncomfortable but I disagree. Our only complaint is trying to fit all our babies stuff into the trunk. If it is packed right it can be done though. This car looks good and drives great. For a car in this class it cant be beat.

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  Love this car - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Mistdreamr - July 24 - 1:06 am

  My first new car since 2001 and Im in love with it. I didnt intend to spend as much as I did, but once I sat in it and then drove it, I was hooked. So many things to love, the proximity keyless entry, the hands free Bluetooth, the great Bose sound system, the seats that cradle you,the sleek exterior lines that hint of speed, and of course, that "zoom zoom" driving feel. Never thought Id look forward to driving like this car makes me feel.

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  Warm Weather Car - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By David - July 24 - 1:06 am

  Bought this car in June 08, loved every mile i drove behind the wheel sing its praises to all my family and friend. Until winter of 08 and it snowed. This is by far the worst front wheel drive car I have ever owned or driven in any type of slippery condition. The anti lock brakes are always on and off at every stop and go situation as wheels spin out of control. I love this car in good dry weather, but this is not a car for upstate NY. I spent $900 for snow tires, didnt make any change in performance or handling. This car will not make it to next winter of 09.

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  Great Car! - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By Tim C - July 22 - 12:26 pm

  This car is a great daily-driver. The ride is smooth and the car handles beautifully. The Bose system sounds great.

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  5 Stars for the new MX-5 PRHT - 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Snugglz - July 22 - 3:03 am

  My 2007 PRHT MX-5 is awesome! I love everything about my roadster. It handles and drives great! The power top is nice and the cockpit is much quieter than a soft top. Love the 7 speaker Bose system and the heated seats! Thanks Mazda for building such a fantastic car!

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  Too bad is its last year!! - 2002 Mazda Millenia
  By zm - July 21 - 10:00 am

  Before the rebates, this car was out of my price range, but when I added it all up and realized I could get this car for about $21,000 after rebates I could have not pass on the oportunity. The fully loaded Accord and Camry dont even come with as many options and they sell in the $25k-$28ks depending on the options. Car companies should sell cars at such discounts more often. Such special deals make consumer dreams come true. I always wanted a car with all these features... The car drives great and is very comfortable. I get a lot of complements on the car, is very attractive! Great car for long trips.

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  Mazda Protege 5 - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By Carolyn Miller - July 21 - 10:00 am

  All around excellent car. Totally fun. I am loving it.

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  happy - 2003 Mazda MPV
  By dino - July 21 - 10:00 am

  this is my fourth mpv.only problem not enough horses.this one great though i miss 4x4...get 21 + m pg time will tell