4 Star Reviews for Mazda

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.54/5 Average
10,700 Total Reviews
Make Overview:

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:

Showing 1471 through 1480 of 10,700.00
  • Bought a 2010 Mazda CX-9 Sport - 2010 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    We have had our new Mazda CX-9 a week and love it (especially the kids)! We got the Sport model with the power driver seat / dual seat heaters. the Bluetooth feature is great and sound good. Looked at all the 3 row crossovers and liked this one the best.

  • One of a kind - 2006 Mazda Mazda5
    By -

    After the birth of our second child we needed more room but not a street-tank. The M5 is in a class of its own. The five speed with a cold-air intake has plenty of power. We generally get 2 MPG over the EPA rating. For what it cost we dont care about the kids trashing it and can still make college fund payments.

  • mazda has a winner - 2002 Mazda Protege
    By -

    my mazda dx protege kicks it, a nice little car that handles really nice. only time will tell if its going to be reliable. I heard of some engine viberations when cold but nothing else negative. if any one has more information please let me know. I have an auto and it does alright.

  • My Mazda - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    I purchased this car last feb because of its affordability, fuel economy, and appearance. I feel that the Mazda3 has exceeded all my expectations in comparison to all the other economy vehicles. Its fast and I dont feel like Im driving a piece of junk.

  • Cx7 gas pig - 2007 Mazda CX-7
    By -

    We brought this car in March of 2009 and it had 15,800 miles and it was great at first we drove it to TN and back to Va the whole trip we put regular gas in the car not knowing it took premium gas. After putting 1500 miles on the car the check engine light came on. So we took the car into the dealership to have it looked at and they said the fuel sensor had went bad so they fixed it under the warranty. After that we didnt have to many issues with the car other than the gas mileage stinks and premium gas burns a hole in your pocket. So just a week ago we went and traded it in for a brand new 2010 Mazda 6 i touring plus which is great and takes regular gas which is great love the new 6 alot more

  • Stylish, fun to drive daily commuter - 1999 Mazda Protege
    By -

    Background: My parents bought the car in 1999 and I got ownership by mid- 2005. The car is still doing well but starting to show its age. Despite being intended as an economical vehicle with great mileage, it looks beautiful in green and has above average handling for its class, making driving a more enjoyable experience. The fun is enhanced by its features such as cruise control. Driving on hilly roads can be a bit of issue due to small engine but it was a needed sacrifice for better mileage. Reliability is rather average as the car needed some costly repairs during these eleven years.

  • Good Van! - 2003 Mazda MPV
    By -

    We have owned for a little over a year and are very happy. The trans is a little busy at times and wish the 3rd row seat was easier to get into. Otherwise very happy so far.

  • The joy of balance - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    The true personality of this car can only be revealed when in manumatic mode on a twisting road using the paddle shifters on the steering wheel. Let the free wheeling engine wind up to 9000 RPM before changing gears and you begin to appreciate the true advantages of a rotary engine. Bought this car with 5000 miles on it - nicely loaded and comfortable to ride in. The 50/50 weight balance is a pure joy, no sudden spin outs - very predictable handling with solid braking and good feedback through the steering wheel. A very nicely put together package or design, utility, performance and fun.

  • Comments for the 2002 B3000 Dual Sport - 2003 Mazda Truck
    By -

    The Truck is fun to drive. I have not had any problems. The Truck has a good clearcoat platinum gray paint job. The ride is tight and comfortable. The truck handles turns and curves very well.

  • So far so good - 2006 Mazda Mazda5
    By -

    At first we werent sure about getting a 4 cylinder minivan, but we were pleasantly surprised by the power/performance of the 5. My wife wanted a six or seven passenger vehicle, that was not some behemoth SUV. This has everything she wanted, and more (incl. moonroof, 6cd changer, airbags) for under $20k.

Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area