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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  There are some issues - 2007 Mazda CX-7
  By familyof3 - April 18 - 12:10 pm

  We have had this car for a little over 2 years and have 16,000 miles. We need all new tires because this car comes with racing tires which have a life of abut 20,000 miles. Wish I would have known that to save up for the $700 bill. Also my husband has lost his key before but someone turned it into his job. Key design is lousy. The "real" key comes loose too easy. Had 5 recalls which I have never gotten a notice for, just found out through the dealership. Overall we love this car and dont mind the extra $ for gas because we obviously dont drive it a lot. Good family car, love the navi! Could use some better features. road noise is loud, but we just turn up the radio!

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  Bland, but Efficient - 2001 Mazda 626
  By mbaisden - April 17 - 10:00 am

  It is liyttle more than basic transportation. It wont "WOW" you, but its relaible. Transmission is a little "choppy" and "harsh". Overall, ita a decent vehicle.

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  Yes, but........ - 2001 Mazda Tribute
  By DianaDriver - April 17 - 10:00 am

  This was the car I was waiting for -- compact, roomy interior, reasonable gas mileage and up where I can see whats going on......yes, but....at 21000 miles Ive just paid about $400 for a rotator replacement on a front wheel brake....that cant be right. Apparently others are having this unanticipated expense also. How common is this and why isnt Mazda doing a recall if the rotators are, as my dealer told me, just not up to handling the brake pads?

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  Great SUV...especially for the money - 2001 Mazda Tribute
  By JasonMN - April 17 - 10:00 am

  I have 45,000 miles on my Tribute and it has been great! I have basically beat the heck out of it with no problems.

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  not to big, not to small, but just right - 2003 Mazda MPV
  By BeenThereDoneThat - April 17 - 10:00 am

  My wife and I drove them all including the new 04 Toyota Sienna which was just a bore to drive. The Mazda was a hands down winner in handling and performance. It gives up some size to the others but it is big enough to fulfill my familys needs. My wife loved it and it handled just was well as my Altima. I wanted to hold off a purchase until I could see the New Quest but it is a new platform being built at a new factory which spells out reliability issues for the first few months and was reluctant to test those waters. I highly recommend that you test drive the Mazda if you are in the market for a van!

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  EXCELLENT! - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Margie Carroll - April 17 - 7:43 am

  I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE my car! With all leather interior, Bose stereo, and choice of fully auto or manual shifting "on the fly" this car rocks! It is just as nice as a mid priced Beamer and WAY nicer than any Honda. Everyone that gets into my car is surprised by the quality and the "cool factor" it has. Plus with side curtain and back side curtain airbags standard on this car it cant be beat.

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  Might have a lemon... - 2008 Mazda Tribute
  By gml0603 - April 16 - 8:03 pm

  I bought the Grand Touring model with V-6 black with leather interior. Worked beautifully until a few months ago. The transmission went out in July of 2008. It started with jerking on acceleration, the tires would screech loudly. I had no idea what was happening. I didnt have the truck for two weeks as they re-built the transmission. Not even a year old at the time. I took it back in two weeks ago in August because the jerking was happening again and it still stalled out at stop lights. I cannot believe this. The dealer "fixed" a starter belt or something but that has done nothing because the jerking/stalling are worse now. So, I need to take this back for a third fix. I am not happy!

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  Mazda mx-5 speed - 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By keith hinshaw - April 15 - 1:23 am

  Easy fit in the garage. Actually has trunk space more than my convertible Vette. Top actuation up/down simple to do. Excellent 6 speed, short throw gear box. Plenty of power (172 HP) to pass. Logical panel lay out, easy to read at all speeds. Great brakes. 28 MPG at 75 MPH. I have owned gull wing, 300 SL roadster, MGA, AH and 2 Vettes. The MX-5 is the best of the bunch.

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  2007 mazda 6 saved our lives - 2008 Mazda Mazda6
  By flatsider - April 13 - 11:45 am

  March 26, I385 north taveling at 65-68 mph,we were hit with basically a high speed pit manuver which put us in a spin off the interstate,down and up an imbankment through a chainlink fence across a frontage road and back into the fence and a pine tree.It completly totalled the car and we walked away with just minor brusies and a little whiplash,not a scratch.The suprising thing was no air bags deployed as we didnt strike anything with the front of the car.Im convinced the car saved our lives.We have since purchased another 6 and waiting on delievery.Great car!

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  Zoom zoom indeed - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Ev - April 13 - 8:23 am

  We were ready to buy a dowdy subcompact before driving the Mazda3. After the drive, there was no question. This car is a well styled road rocket and instantly changed our top priority from mpg to fun. After a couple fill-ups Im averaging a respectable 28 mpg, a bit less than Id been in the market for, but enough to stay true to the spirit of an affordable, reliable, low total-cost-of-ownership purchase. Its more than large enough for everyday driving for our family of 4. And, again, the performance is just awesome -- quick, nimble, and amazingly grippy. Bottom line: try it, youll like it.