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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  Fun sports sedan! - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By mmsim - August 1 - 1:04 am

  This was the first car I purchased myself. Im the second owner of an 06 Mazda6. In regard to appearance, this car is definitely "sexy", especially in the Dark Cherry color I have. I drove an 03 Toyota Camry before this Mazda6 and I can assure you, the Mazda6 is sportier, smaller, and more fun to drive. I havent had any serious issues with the vehicle, besides the routine maintenance (oil change, tires,). I had one mechanical problem when I first bought the car but it was under warranty so no cost to me. The speed and handling of this vehicle is up to par; it exceeds my expectations, especially being a 4-banger. Overall I would HIGHLY recommend this vehicle to any prospective purchasers.

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  a bit disappointed - 2003 Mazda Tribute
  By elizabeth ochoa - July 31 - 10:40 am

  SUV is comfortable, stylish. Disappointed with the quality. 6-CD player has been changed 3 times, disappointed to find out I get refurbished CD replacement, not a new CD player, even under factory warranty. Steering wheel pin has been changed twice; starting to squeak again. Discs - front disc brakes have been replaced, braking is too low. Moon roof mechanism already replaced. Very disappointed with factory warranty, service and treatment. Not pleased with Mazda quality.

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  My Zoom Zoom - 2002 Mazda Protege5
  By Trey Evans - July 31 - 10:00 am

  I recently purchased a midnight blue Protege5. The looks attracted me, but it was the drive that sold me. This is a tight, fun to drive car. The engine is peppy, but not fast, however the suspension handles better than sports cars I have owned. the interior is roomy, and well thought out even though some of the materials are cheap in feel and appearance. My only real complaint is the A/C just wont blow really cold air during our hot Texas summers, which is a must (this makes sense if you have ever been in Dallas in August. All things considered I love my car!!

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  A happy wife is a happy life - 2008 Mazda CX-7
  By rands - July 29 - 9:30 pm

  Got this car for my wife, we looked at all the usual suspects and Im so glad that she preferred the CX-7 in the Grand Touring AWD package. This car is a revelation in the price bracket; it is the better value X5. Being an ex racer and a Manager of a Ferrari and Maserati dealer I get to drive some nice cars, but this car is really good, with a few short comings, but they are insignificant to the positives.

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  Originally, I Had Second Thoughts - 2008 Mazda CX-7
  By MEP - July 28 - 12:43 am

  When I test drove the CX-7 Sport, I liked the car; however, after I purchased it and drove it for a longer period of time, I was not please with the rough ride. I was having second thoughts about this vehicle. Now, after owning the SUV for a month, Im loving this SUV. I originally started out to purchase the Nissan Maxima until I saw this vehicle on the highway. Its roomy, the handling and braking is great, and I have gotten use to the ride.

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  So far so good. - 2011 Mazda Mazda3
  By mazda4_life - July 25 - 2:24 pm

  I got a 2011 Mazda 3 hatchback just last week after doing some initial research into the car. I have owned a 2003 Mazda 6 in the past and my sister has owned a 2004 Mazda 3. The newer features are nice, but I miss the 1 touch drivers window. I dont have GPS and its an auto with 42 K on it.

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  Why did I sit out this long? - 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Kshitish Soman - July 22 - 12:22 pm

  Ive owned several other convertibles from German makers previously and this is my first 2 seat roadster. Ive a whole slew of gripes. One stands out for myself: WHY THE HELL DID I WAIT THIS LONG TO OWN ONE? Three stand out for the price paid for a fully loaded GT. This car absolutely needs (1) a heated steering wheel (2) Exterior heated mirrors (3) Seat memory. But Im okay with living with what I have. Live in Jersey, bought a car at Russell Smith Mazda in Houston sort of on a whim and they offered excellent deal and support. Drove home that weekend with my daughter co-piloting (shes just got her license). It was the best decision and the most fun drive. The new shape is different and people turn around and ask if its a European roadster, only to then be confused by the Mazda sign. Who cares, its an absolute treat to drive. If I could live with all the PAIN of owning german cars, Ill live with whatever headaches this car can throw at me. Ive just changed my religion.

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  GREAT CAR - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By MN6Owner - July 22 - 10:00 am

  Bought this car off the reviews of many others. Pluses: sporty feel, good gas mileage (average 24 with city/highway drivin), fun to drive, love the autolevel volume control for radio, trunk space is huge. Cons: Interior is cheap, no padding on door rests for elbows (Camry has nice padding), rattles underneath the gear shift, no torque from 1K to 2.4K RPM, no overdrive for automatic. Front seats could have more padding. These are all minor thnings for the first 3000 miles I have owned it. Considering trading this in for a bigger car because I am not sure how a baby seat and a booster seat for my 3 year old is going to ride. The AC takes a bit to turn on

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  fun but tight - 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By jeff schwartz - July 22 - 10:00 am

  car drives very well: steering control is terrific, makes tight turns, brakes on a dime. Fast on highway but very noisey. cabin is very tight and uncomfortable on long drives. outer design is beautiful but front end gets beat up alot by hellen keller parkers in the city. No front bumper to stop nicks and scratches by license plate area. All around fun drive for about 1 hour and then discomfort settles in. Car is a death trap in snow, ice and slush. Car easily gets stranded on snowy days.

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  Its a good car for the money I paid for - 2003 Mazda Tribute
  By voodoo - July 19 - 2:00 am

  it (100 over invoice) but Mazda could make it better by fixing the damn wind noise (when going about 50 or faster) and the transmission hesitation problem which also happens around 50 mile/hr.