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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  Absolutely Love It! - 2002 Mazda MPV
  By Family Man - February 14 - 10:00 am

  This minivan has it all! We love the third row seat fold away and how it reverses for tailgates etc.. The handling is superb, the 200 hp engine is fantastic. The overall attention to quality detail is great. This minivan is comfortable, well made and has some zip to it. We have been a Mazda family for many years, from my 83 RX-7, my wifes former 323, my moms 626 to her new Protege, we have experienced the dependability of these wonderful cars. Take a look and compare it to the Honda and you will see that you get a great deal and save some bucks too! Believe me, the fold away third seat is a must!

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  Money Pit! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Robert - February 13 - 7:36 am

  I bought this car at 45,000 miles. Car looked great and seamed to be in good running order. That was a joke. Ive had the car for just under a year and had to have it towed to the dealership three days ago because the motor just gave out. I bought the extended warranty when I bought the vehicle so it should be covered right? Wrong... They are trying to stick us with the bill because they say a motor just cant go out like that we had to do something to it. What a mess. If you but a Mazda6, Be careful. You get what you pay for. My next vehicle will be another Honda.

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  Zoom....Zoom....Zoom..... - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Darcy - February 13 - 1:36 am

  This is a fun, safe car that really zips. Easy to drive and handle. Excellent gas mileage.

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  Be careful over 100k - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By rsavasta - February 13 - 1:21 am

  I purchased my 05 Mazda 6 in 2007 with 20k miles. The car ran great, had lots of pep and was very reliable. After 120k miles I started noticing the oil level going down with no noticeable oil leak. It eventually would not start and when I brought it to the dealer they found that the valve seals were leaking and the PVC valve was blowing oil into the cylinders as well as the throttle body. After having the those 3 things replaced and spending $1500, it is running fine. Perhaps this is considered routine maintenance or the dealer ripped me off so beware.

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  Quiet, smooth riding car if you just ask - 2015 Mazda Mazda6
  By chaz56 - February 13 - 12:30 am

  I am hearing impaired and need a quiet car. Many of the reviews on the Touring and Grand Touring models complain about a rough loud ride. I have found that most dealers are willing to swap out the 19 inch wheels for the 17 inch wheels for about $100 - (it should be free). You just have to ask. This tradeoff of performance for a quieter smoother ride is worth it. Once you take care of the noise, the car a great cruiser.

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  What a Sweet Ride - Mazda has done a wonderful job - 2017 Mazda CX-5
  By Sonny - February 11 - 1:03 pm

  We traded in a Honda 2016 CRV EXL and also test drove the new 2017 CRV Touring - which can not compare to the CX5 as far as the technology and we hated the cheap looking interior of the CRV - who designed the tinny looking steering wheel controls? THe CX5 handled so much better on the road - steered better-quieter-and handled bumpy roads way better , the Bose Stereo is just awesome , the center knob for the entertainment screen is wonderful. Mazdas lane assist , headlights that move around the corners , the cruise control with assist, a interior that is pure luxury compared to the Honda. The Red Soul Color has no comparison. So if you havent driven a new CX5 please do so before buying anything else in this class of vehicle. Also Mazdas dealership is awesome no pushing to purchase a vehicle which probably is due to the fact that nothing compares to their new CX5

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  Truly making it fun to drive again! - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Proud Mazda Owner - February 10 - 1:20 pm

  I have to start this review by saying that this car is just plain fun to drive! It will make your morning commute a happy time. The interior is very nice and refined. The lighting on the gauges is, simply put, very cool. For the price of the car it is amazing what you get inside and out. The bluetooth, steering wheel mounted controls, & sound system are a luxury. Above all, the engine rocks! Put your foot to the pedal and you will not believe it is a 4 cyl. Restrain yourself or let it go, it is your choice. It hops off the line and is agile, sporty, and feels like a V6. During my test drive when I hit the gas, I actually said, "thats what Im talkin bout". Oh yes, Daddy like!

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  Awesome Mazdas. Can you say ZOOM ZOOM?? - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By STALLIONRE - February 10 - 5:33 am

  When I first saw this car for the price, I said NO WAY!! How can Mazda sell a car that is 100% made in Japan with all these options for this low price? This car rates like a higher end car with all these options and heated seats!!! I am blown away of what you get for the price. A car like this in this class would be over $28,000. I test drove this car twice and totally fell in love with it. My wife even loves the colors (instrumental panel) at night. I agree this car beats most. I bought the Mazda3 S Grand Touring fully loaded. Awesome!! I got all the options that were avaliable. I would highly recommend adding the cool air intake unit, the front mask, wheel locks, cargo mat, seat covers, front and rear dash covers, all weather carpet mats, rear lip spoiler, and of course the Bose 6 CD changer that is built into the dash. Just simply awesome!!

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  Great Value - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By jc - February 10 - 5:13 am

  This car drives and looks like way more than what I paid for it. It is also so much nicer than those in its class.

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  Excellent car, minor improvements needed - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Bill - February 10 - 2:13 am

  The car is a joy to drive. Havent had a chance to rev the engine yet since Im under the 600 mile break-in period. The acceleration and braking are very good. The gas mileage could be a little better though especially when compared to the Honda Civic.