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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  Great Little Car - 2012 Mazda Mazda2
  By jamuraco - November 25 - 9:11 am

  I had been looking at the Mazda2 well before it arrived in the states. Shortly after it arrived, the Chevy Sonic and Kia Rio5 also arrived. After checking out all three vehicles, the Mazda2 blew the competition out of the water. It may not have the biggest engine or most features, but it is most definitely the most fun to drive. While many reviews I read commented on the Mazda2s lack of power, I find it to be more than adequate. I love the driving experience provided by Mazda and am especially pleased to be averaging 30mpg (compared to the 20mpg I got in my old vehicle) and not having to spend nearly as much on gas. It really is a great little car that is definitely worth checking out.

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  Nice.... - 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Bob B - November 22 - 5:00 pm

  Great car and noticeable improvement over 2013 GT in ride, comfort, interior, economy, electronics and safety. Bose sound system has just enough extra oomph to make it enjoyable over the old Bose system which lacked a dedicated sub-woofer.

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  A blast to drive - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By formerag - November 22 - 4:16 am

  Fun, fast, great handling. A really blast to drive. Very comfortable seating, awd seems to work well. Have had the CX-9 for 4 months, with 5K miles, no problems yet. A real head turning car as well, everyone likes the look.

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  I love it if only mileage was better! - 2004 Mazda Tribute
  By JulieRud - November 22 - 2:00 am

  Its a perfect car for me! I love its size, its performance, its comfort, its safety, its handling, and its looks! It drives beautifully, and has been totally dependable for almost 3 years! What other cars can claim that?

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  Love My Tribute - 2004 Mazda Tribute
  By Kmokele - November 22 - 2:00 am

  Bought my Mazda Tribute four months ago. It is a pleasure to drive. I had a larger SUV prior to this purchase but I am glad that I made the switch to the Mazda...gas consumption is much better (average 24 mpg) and I am thrilled with my vehicle.

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  Mazda Tribute - 2004 Mazda Tribute
  By perkins02m - November 22 - 2:00 am

  It has the luxury of a car but the toughness of a truck. The back seats give ample room for a adult to sit with lots of leg room. It also has a fast pickup, when taking off. It coasts decently to the next light or stop sign without the pedal on the floor. Now it is bumpier than a car. But I will always pick performance over the ride. We have not been limited with her. We have taken her fishing and have gotten her in some sandy spots and overall have been pleased. I notice I do get better gas milege if I dont always fill it up. Less weight I figure. Overall this has been my favorite car in the last 16 years.

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  zoom zoom - 2004 Mazda Tribute
  By stacie0620 - November 22 - 2:00 am

  This is my 2nd mazda. I enjoy it and its been a very trustworthy vehicle for my family. It has more room than my husbands jeep cherokee. No problems so far

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  Mazda Millenia S rules!! - 2002 Mazda Millenia
  By FMUTA - November 22 - 12:00 am

  We purchased a Millenia after carefully evaluating several cars including the Acura TL, C class Benz etc. and found the Millenia to be the best combination of price performance and also a great looking car. Unbelievable build quality. This car gets a ton of looks as it goes down the road.

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  07 Mazda 3 s gt 5 dr = Booya! - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Monkeyboy6 - November 21 - 2:30 pm

  This is a great car and I highly recommend it to anyone that asks. However, I would like to see a rack option other than buying aftermarket model. All in all, this is a great car and I look forward to the 1.5 hours I spend on the road going to and from work every day.

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  One small problem - 2002 Mazda Protege
  By Scott37042 - November 20 - 10:00 am

  In all, a good car for around town. Nice style, easy to maneuver, steady suspension. The car has good torque for start-stop driving in crowded traffic. All of the knobs and switches are easy to locate and use. The down side? It loses its "oomph" way before 60mph. There is a very irritating wind-noise over 65mph. I dont know if it is the same for every protege, but mine has a high pitch wistle at 70mph+ that seems to come from around the windshield (the dealer has been unable to fix).