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 value but could be so much more!! - 2016 Mazda CX-9
  By scottworks4u@hotmail.com - December 27 - 6:27 am

  Now that I have been driving this car for a month heres what I have learned. First, I love the car and definitely made the right choice. The ride is so much smoother than the pilot or highlander which we test drove. The interior finishes rival that of lexus, acura, etc.. That being said there are some things you should be aware of. The rear lift gate, does not go all the way up. Im 62 so the first time nearly gave myself a concussion. now im more aware of it. If you are short than this will not be an issue for you. The navigation & entertainment system are poorly designed. Its quite difficult to scroll through stations while driving. For navigation, you cant enter any address while driving, this means the passenger also. No android or apple play system. Finally, the front seats are quite narrow. Im 62 212 pounds and I feel restricted in the seats. If you are a bigger person or just like more space you will probably not feel comfortable. The cargo space is ample. If you need a lot more cargo space than recommend the Honda pilot but the CX-9 works perfectly for our family.

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  EVERYONE smiles at this car - 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By lifesabrook - December 26 - 10:00 am

  Bought this as a second car -- midlife fantasy, tantalized me from its spot on the car lot. Got great price on 1-year old model with only 8,200 miles on it. I smile when I drive it, and everyone else smiles back. Corners like crazy and maneuvers with confidence. White paint chips easily, and while my car has sport suspension, alarm, gorgeous wheels and stainless racing exhaust, it really needs cruise control; leg position on accelerator gets VERY uncomfortable on the highway. Passenger seat also rattles on bumps when empty and black cloth seats always look "linty."

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  So far so good, could be better - 2008 Mazda CX-7
  By Richard Josh - December 25 - 1:36 pm

  I was looking for a great value crossover vehicle. I was eyeing the Audi Q5 but it wont come out until late 2009. So I shopped around and compared different makes. The CX7 by far is the closest to the Audi specs. I got the sport version (no leather seats & moonroof).

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  One Moms Opinion - 2002 Mazda MPV
  By Mom Hickson - December 24 - 10:00 am

  I researched this van for 2 years. Was very pleased that Mazda upd the engine to a 3.0, for the power. Have owned it for 1 week. It is so fun to drive and holds plenty of kids. Interior is very versatile. A/C in front is great. Kids are complaining somewhat about the rear A/C. They cant feel it unless its up to the max setting. Gear stick is too long, but getting used to it. To bad the base van doesnt come with the cassette and cd combo. Ultimatly, I love it! It has all the conveniences of the Honda Odyssey, but not the price tag.

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  Poor Mans BMW - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By GLC - December 23 - 9:13 am

  Have owned this car almost 3 yrs. No mechanical/quality problems. Routine service only. Handles similar to my drowned BMW 325i, despite that it is FWD (specs for size wt and interior dimensions close, but definitely not nearly as refined as BMW, but ok for ~1/2 the price. Excellent outward visibility. Mileage ~22 mpg city and high 20s hwy. Good looking, especially to the younger set. Lots of amenities, leather, rain-sensing wipers, 5 speed auto with manual mode, atuo on-off headlights, side air bags, CD, heated seats, and more. Would definitely recomend this model for someone who wants a fun to drive, economical, utilitarian and reliable car that runs on regular gas. It is a GLC as in great little car.

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  Compact SUV that is fun to drive - 2008 Mazda CX-7
  By Lurking - December 22 - 3:23 pm

  Ive enjoyed my first month of owning my new CX-7. It is a beautiful vehicle and it has carried me through 6" of snow and a blinding rainstorm already. I test drove many other vehicles in this category but the Mazda was, by far, the most fun to drive. That consideration was not at the top of my priority list, but its superiority there outshined some of the smaller disadvantages. One thing I wish I had known was just how poor the gas mileage is. My vehicle is returning 13mpg in the city and about 19 mpg on the highway. Im not even sure how a 4 cyl engine can possibly return such poor numbers. I recommend the vehicle with the caveat that you must be willing to accept poor gas mileage.

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  Another love-hate relationship - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By Liz - December 21 - 9:30 pm

  While I love the look and feel of my car I have had many difficulties with it. Mazda acknowledges the engine problems that the 2004/2005 RX 8s have and thus have extended the drive train warranty. However, my car has been in the shop more times that I can count. The check engine light is constantly on, even after my engine was replaced! Started with the typical stalling you see in these cars, and went downhill from there. Most recently my oil cooler line completely rusted out, which the mechanic states he has seen in multiple RX 8s. Its a fun car, but as the dealership has told me AFTER pushing me to purchase the car...it should be used as a sports car, not your every day car.

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  Best Value for your money - 2009 Mazda CX-9
  By FDC - December 19 - 6:23 pm

  Nice ride. Comparable to other luxury SUVs without paying the $$$. Nice handling and power. Touring edition has some nice features that cost more in other models. Definitely better than highlander or the pilot. Lots of room, great bose surround system. Comfy ride.

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  My B2300 truck - 2003 Mazda Truck
  By Scott - December 18 - 2:00 am

  I have enjoyed the little truck. Great for running around town, yard work, trash, etc. Gets 27 MPG with 5 speed.

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  Luvit but Hatit - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Noah Hansell - December 15 - 2:43 pm

  This car looks and feels like a million dollars from the inside out. The lines on the trim to the outstanding handling put you on the top. I recommend buying this car for yourself not the wife; it is no minivan! This car to me compares to having a Mustang station wagon but still rides well on the highway, especially at high speeds.