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:

• 

  The real zoom zoom! - 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By larryd1972 - November 5 - 10:06 am

  This car has very good driving characteristics. Fun to drive, great cornering abilities. Affordable and aggressive new body style. Everyday car or weekends, whatever - this car is a blast.

• 

  Love my CX3 - 2017 Mazda CX-3
  By Julie mikula - November 4 - 5:15 pm

  This car is amazing. The feel is perfect and the look just as great. I love driving is car all over. Its such a comfort and pleasure. Thanks Mazda.

• 

  Still in love after 45k - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By sbronemann - November 4 - 6:44 am

  Have managed 32.6 MPG over 45k so far. Love the handling-it is a blast to drive. Could use a bit more HP. The transmission is flawless. Its nice to actually have a 6-speed instead of a CVT junk. Stock tires are junk. Opted to get 18" rims and 245/45/18 tires instead and the ride quality has improved a bit. Just a blast to drive and the MPG is a huge bonus. Have gotten a best tank of 578 miles and 37.9 MPG. Would be happy to answer any questions as I have one of the highest mileage 2014s out there according to www.fuelly.com from what I have seen.

• 

  Best 3-row CUV on the market - 2011 Mazda CX-9
  By emoney15 - November 4 - 4:04 am

  After researching the GM cousins, the new Ford Explorer, the new Toyota 4-Runner, and Honda Pilot, we gladly purchased the CX-9. Nothing compares to the Mazdas driving dynamics or what you get for the money. I highly recommend this crossover as the mid-level Touring package comes standard with power everything, leather, and a fold-flat third row. Fuel econ is decent considering the size and power. We upgraded from a 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee. There is really no comparison to be made. The CX-9 is smooth and does not feel enormous, but is more than roomy enough. The dealership did a very good deal for us as well. Thumbs up, Mazda.

• 

  3rd Awesome CX-9 - 2016 Mazda CX-9
  By LAMissesMe - November 3 - 10:07 pm

  new model - redesign is awesome, safety tech additions put it up with BWM, Audi, and Mercedes

• 

  Great sports/wagon with excellent finish - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By EDB - November 3 - 10:00 am

  I cant believe this is in the wagon catagory, it handles more like a German/Italian hatchback..Turn the wheel and that is exactly where it goes. Acceleration is "peppy" not neck-breaking, but the gas milage is well worth the loss of "jack rabbit starts and the styling is superb

• 

  Return to Fun - 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Joe B - November 3 - 10:00 am

  Among others, I have owned and driven a Sprite, Healy 3000, MGCGT (MGB with Healy engine), 79 Supra, ‘88 Supra, (which cornered like it was glued to the ground). None surpassed the fun of the Mazda. Only my Healy was as enjoyable. This car is a true sports car in every sense. I drive it daily, and even at 59 I still enjoy the thrill. Top up or down, the drive is a joy. Top down in the evenings is my favorite here in Austin TX. If you gotta drive, might as well enjoy it.

• 

  thumbs up - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By agentg35 - November 3 - 10:00 am

  very quick, loves high RPMs, vehicle gets alot of stares and thumbs up! exotic styling.

• 

  This ride is hot! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By twinkfolife - November 3 - 10:00 am

  great ride. turns plenty of heads. drove it home last night. hit a possum though...geez! oh well, my car can handle a possum.

• 

  Inexpensive and Fun to Drive - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By ze6492 - November 3 - 10:00 am

  Love the car - only complaints are its extremely noisy on the road - highway (tire) noise - and the radio volume increments need to be eliminated - either too quiet or too loud.