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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  Love it - 2007 Mazda CX-7
  By Eric - July 14 - 12:40 am

  With gas prices the way they are, this is not the car if you plan to complain about the mileage. However, if you like something fun to drive, looks good on the road, and can speed up really quick then this is your car. When the dealer told me it had only a 4 banger I laughed and said I wanted something with more of an engine then I test drove it. It didnt remind me of no 4 banger I had driven before. I like the car a lot and like the performance. It is a fun car to drive. I love opening the roof and the windows. I like many different thing about this car, the most would be the styling I think.

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  Great Little Car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By erin - July 13 - 8:33 pm

  I have had my mazda3 for about 2 years now, and have not really had any complaints. The original tires that came on it sucked in the rain and snow, but after putting new tires on it, have had no problems. I have put almost 40000 miles on it in over 2 years and do a lot of driving, and it definatly holds its own. I couldnt believe the pick-up that this little 4 cylinder car had! I definitely recommend these little cars to anyone who is looking.

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  Our Second Mazda Tribute - 2005 Mazda Tribute
  By The McMillers - July 12 - 1:26 pm

  We have a 2003 Mazda Tribute, and was so impressed with it, that we purchased a second one this year. 4WD handling is very sure-footed. Gas mileage is not a problem (if you read the reviews before you made the purchase) -- but not 12 mpg or anything extreme like that. Typically, 17/21 mpg city/hwy. The Tribute is excellent for towing too. Nice big moonroof and warm leather seats. Design is better in the 2005 versus the 2003 (gear-shift and air conditioning redesigned!). Cargo space is roomy, and the fold-down seats are easy to use. A little noisy, but highly recommended.

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  81,ooo miles - no complaints... - 2001 Mazda Tribute
  By JB of Lawrenceville - July 12 - 10:00 am

  Bought the ES w/ 4wd almost by accident - I was checking out 4-door cars at the VW dealer next door, when a salesman talked me into driving the Trib. The drive sold me, coupled with what I felt was a huge bang-for-the buck value - V-6, 4wd, all options, leather, great adjustable seat - all for under 22k (after negotiations). Ive taken it in for a few minor recall checks, never spent more than an hour each time. Car still runs like new! I recommend it highly!

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  5 weeks in with the 04 MPV - 2004 Mazda MPV
  By jbond - July 12 - 10:00 am

  After test driving EVERY minivan, we went with the MPV. Smaller-sure but handling is amazing, parking easy, braking unbelievably short, quality high, price well-we bought the LX fully loaded with every option and package except tow package, got a 5000 dealer discount, 500 loyalty bonus, 500 graduate bonusand a great price to start with. Out the door with TTL $20,100. Add to that the unbelievable tradein allowance for our Jetta $12, 500, and we owe less than 7 grand after tax allowance. What a dealership! Oh yeah, and they thru in a 100000 mile/7 year extended warranty and 3 oil changes for free! A similarly equiped, honda was even close $26000. if you prize style over size, get this van.

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  Do not buy anything until you try a 3!!! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By boogy-boo - July 12 - 10:00 am

  We picked up a brand new 2.3, 4 door a couple of days ago. Everything is in it except for navigation. (I usually know where Im going.) The grey/black carbon fiber trim all over the interior looks awesome! Comfortable leather seating, front & back. Impresssive & quiet 4 cyl., and responsive handling. Everything inside and out on this car is solid. Great trunk room too. I can easily fit two sets of golf clubs in there and still have room. (really) The interior lighting on the dash and controls looks super cool. I do not understand how anyone could not like that set up! Dont buy until you check out a "3". You get a lot of car for your money.

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  Great little car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By brett65 - July 12 - 10:00 am

  Ive had the car for a little over a week so I cant really rate the reliability, but this is a great little car to drive. Looks awesome and rides even better. Mazda has a winner with the 3...Im zoomin.

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  Amazing Car! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By dancsontos - July 12 - 10:00 am

  Everything about this car is amazing. It drives like a BMW 3 series (believe me, I have driven one...) and the interior is very upscale. Thank you Mazda!

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  You will love this vehicle! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By twospedteacher - July 12 - 10:00 am

  After doing alot of research for the ideal wagon, I found the Mazda6 sport wagon to be the perfect vehicle for me and my 8 year old twins. This car rides like a Cadillac, handles beautifully, is very comfortable and roomy. The radio controls are an added convience feature that I love, not having to look at my dash to adjust the volume or stations. There is plenty of leg room in the passanger side and back seats. The illuminated dash is easy to see. I love the privacy cover in the hatch. There is plenty of storage room, and the cargo holders are great for organization. It rides quietly and handles solidly. I am nothing but pleased with this vehicle.

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  2010 Mazda 3 Hatchback 2.5 manual - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By tazbird - July 12 - 4:59 am

  No adjustments required by dealer from day one to present. 55,000 km and have only replaced the battery. Two trips from Ontario to Florida, and one trip to Virginia. Excellent value and fun to drive. My third Mazda.