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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  One week of ownership - 2007 Mazda CX-7
  By BPerres - November 20 - 1:53 am

  After many weeks of looking. Decided on CX-7. Very happy we did. It is a beautiful vehicle and great to drive. First tank of gas was 19.8mpg mostly highway. My wife loves it. We also have a 2006 Honda Ridgeline and love it, but the CX-7 is a lot more fun to drive.

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  Glad we waited - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By dmssksan - November 19 - 8:10 pm

  I started researching SUVs and crossovers 6 months ago and test drove the Lexus, Audi and BMW. The CX-9 was the last vehicle I drove and hands down it was the best. Mazda has really given us a beatuiful and smooth vehicle to drive. All the other car manufacturers should look at the CX-9 as a role model.

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  I upgraded and had some ups and downs - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Damian - November 19 - 10:00 am

  I like the way it handles now versus how it did when I bought it. Its a used car with only 17,700 miles on it so its a good deal. Of course I needed to fix some things before I could actually enjoy it like I now do. I like how it gets up there when I need it and when I out on a 1 to 2 hour drive I love the bose system. It helps to have soft tires greatly. This car corners nicely.

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  WOW - A MUST DRIVE - 2009 Mazda CX-9
  By Larry - November 18 - 11:33 am

  After several months of looking at all SUVs and X-overs I selected the CX-9. Am I glad I did - the build quality, workmanship, features, value, fuel economy (first 240 miles city with 62 miles freeway got 18.5 MPG!!), fun to drive, and performance all add up to a best in class up and down the price scale. Much better than all contenders. This is a little known gem that will have a very bright future as soon as folks get to know and see them on the road. Outstanding lines, sports car handling, family friendly, equally at home in a tux or Levis. This is a rare find in a market cluttered with "me too" and "ordinary offerings". A must drive if you are in the market, no disappointments here.

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  Love my CX-9 - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By John Stark - November 15 - 11:56 pm

  I test drove the 2010 CX-9, Highlander, Acadia and Flex. Key requirement was 3rd row of seats and fun to drive. After driving and researching all it came down to the Highlander and CX-9. Mazda CX-9 won on these items: - 3rd row is split. - More room behind 3rd row. Highlander barely had room for a row of groceries. - Access to 3rd row was WAY easier for the munchkins and adults than the Higlander. - Cx-9 is was more fun to drive. I liked the Highlander, but the Mazda has way more performance. Engine is smooth and shifts almost stealth. - Fit and finish is solid. Very nice looking car.

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  My P5 - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By Jana D - November 15 - 2:00 am

  When I went looking for my first brand new car- I was expecting a lot from the car I chose. The only specific ideas I had were that I wanted a hatchback, but I also wanted four door. I wanted a sporty yet comfortable car that I could play in on the weekends and that would be reliable in any situation. It took me five months of research to find the car I eventually bought, and I must say it was worth the time and effort I put into finding my new car. I am more confident in my driving because of it. I love that the back seats lay down for extra cargo room, but it isnt a huge "soccer mom" car that most people picture when you say "wagon". I love my car!

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  21 again - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By SinCityRX8 - November 15 - 2:00 am

  Its been 17 years since I had a sports car, almost forgot how much fun it was to drive one. Ok, ok, so there is some debate on whether its a sports car or not, but sure drives like one. Great styling too, and is a head turner. Hearing and seeing the rpm at 6000+ is just a music to my ears. Gas milage? Been having too much fun to notice, but am sure will notice it sooner or later.

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  check it out - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By chris bager - November 15 - 2:00 am

  so far I have no complaints..If things continue I will be a happy camper..As you can see above I am very satisfied so far and hope this will induce others/

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  So Far.....So Good - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Mr-BTJ - November 15 - 2:00 am

  Picked the vechile up at the beginning of November...I love it so far...I only have 800 miles on it but I love the sportsy feel and look of this vechile. I chose it over the Nissan Altima and Maxima...

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  Super cool - 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Nancy McKay - November 14 - 6:48 pm

  This car lives up to all its performance reviews. Its sleek sporty and overall hot