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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  Surprisingly fun family car - 2010 Mazda CX-7
  By rac20585 - August 18 - 12:35 am

  When I bought this car, it was a necessary "downsizing" for me from a GMC Acadia (basically I took what I could get to get my payments more affordable). I didnt expect to like it; it was just something I bought to "get me by." Well, to my surprise, I am now a Mazda customer for life! This car has been very reliable, affordable, and fun to drive. Everything on the interior is clean and easy to use, and I think the exterior has a nice look to it as well. My family is growing so I am now taking advantage of the Mazda loyalty program to get a nice discount on the bigger CX-9. So glad I made this purchase!

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  It thinks its a van... but its not - 2008 Mazda Mazda5
  By dee - August 17 - 8:46 pm

  Thought it would be a smaller alternative to a van, bought it when gas was $4.00+. It is way too small, can haul 6 people/4 with stuff, but not both. Cons: non-lighted mirrors, small useless cubbies without lids, industrial looking fabric, door ajar light doesnt specify which door, gas cap is very hard to get off, wimpy horn, cant close windows with car off, small sunroof, would switch volume with placement of radio change buttons (dont change volume often, but you always change stations, add on/off button), cubbie under middle seat cant be accessed while driving, sunshade is too short-useless, light in truck have off/on/door, armrest must be up to access back.

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  Great Car - 2005 Mazda Tribute
  By Mimi - August 17 - 3:03 am

  I switched from a Mustang Convertible and was anxious that I wouldnt get that thrill moving up to an SUV. Obviously it isnt the same, but I thoroughly enjoy my Tribute. I picked the Tribute over the Escape because a)I liked some of the curves of the body style better and b)it seemed like everyone had an Escape. It handles like a car and has a much softer ride than hubbys Jeep Liberty. Never have any problem fitting my "stuff" into it and those who ride in the back seat are very comfortable. Auto 4WD is great and it just kicks in when needed. I have heated seats, sunroof, and leather and all are wonderful. I highly recommend this for those who want the room, but the drivability of a car.

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  Mazda Protege ES 5-speed - 2001 Mazda Protege
  By Tony Harris - August 16 - 7:26 pm

  My car is an ES 5-speed with premium package, which includes sunroof, anti-lock brakes, and side airbags. This is a sporty car thats always fun to drive. Very tight steering, handles like a go-cart. Peppy engine that likes to rev once the engine is broke in. Clutch is a little on the light side. First front wheel drive car Ive driven that actually oversteers. Overall, a very dependable yet fun automobile that has a sporty personality (Zoom, Zoom).

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  Never Buy A Mazda CX-7 - 2007 Mazda CX-7
  By simbaman - August 16 - 7:42 am

  CX7 is a disaster. 1. My CX7s rotors had to be replaced in 12 months despite light footed driving. 2. 18 months into ownership and the engine light came on. The fuel valve had be replaced, and that after numerous arguments with the dealership. 3. The rear window chrome mouldings slid forward preventing opening of the front doors. The dealership replaced one side as a courtesy, but would not replace the other side. Then agreed to trim the other side. Very shoddy work! 4. 2 years in ownership the shift up/down to 3rd gear became jerky with a thud. The dealership refused to fix the issue despite regular servicing. I didnt bother to have it fixed. The car was returned at end of lease.

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  Miata-class fun, Audi A4 practicality - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Bryan in Central VA - August 15 - 3:23 pm

  Plenty of creature comforts (heated leather, Bose, Xenons, ABS, steering wheel controls)...looks like a little BMW 325. I wanted something japanses to replace my service issues on my last three Audis and two Passats. This car is smaller and less expensive but even more fun to drive. Strong engine (w/5- spd) loses steam at 65 mph+ 9great around town baut looses punch on highway. SP23 was ltd edition and I have not seen another in 3 months of ownership. I would not have considered its "peer economy" competitors. Buy it for style & handling - not price. SP23 thinks its all grown up. A relative bargain for a "euro" sedan. Combination of Jetta/A4 and Miata. Practical fun with reliability.

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  SPORT Wagon is Correct Name - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By PM013 - August 15 - 2:00 pm

  I have a 2005 fully loaded Sport Wagon (May 2005) and I have 10,000KM (6,000 Miles). This is one fun car to drive! My wife always fights me for the keys, Took it on our first real highway trip this summer and got 29MPG at 75MPH. Great SPORT wagon. No regrets at all.

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  Love It - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By Carluvr - August 15 - 10:00 am

  I love this SUV!! Im used to the gear shift getting in the way of the radio controls, so i just use it to rest my hand on when Im changing stations. The gas mileage is surprisingly good and I have no complaints!

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  Tribute - 2003 Mazda Tribute
  By shanelawson1 - August 15 - 10:00 am

  Our Mazda Tribute is an awesome vehicle to drive. We drove over 1500 miles on vacation and the drive was extremely comfortable. The vehicle is a great value for the price.

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  Best in Class - 2003 Mazda Tribute
  By cbdupont - August 15 - 10:00 am

  Best value of the small SUVs. Handles more like a car than a truck.