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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  Simply Perfect - 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Dr. Drift - June 26 - 5:43 am

  I had a car similar to the Miata before I actually bought one and the difference is incredible. Nothing compares to this car! Its an incredible performer, its very easy to work on in your own driveway, and its reliability is outstanding. I didnt know much about working on cars before I bought my Miata; but, soon after, Im pretty handy and do a lot of maintenance and improvements myself. This car makes you want to learn about working on cars. The aftermarket support is great and provides pretty much every type of upgrade or accessory you could think of. I dont know if Ill ever own anything except Miatas. Well, when I have kids I might get a sedan, but the Miata will stay in the garage.

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  Zoom Zooming - 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By cynduhrella - June 25 - 2:47 am

  After losing my 1991 to flood damage I researched a replacement for two years. Decided on the 2012 PRHT .. Im in heaven.. The Bose Stereo Kicks .. Dont know why they stated other wise. The car runs smoother than a babies buttocks and handles better than expected. This was a Fantastic choice for an upgrade from an NA.. When the time comes, I will go & get another NA..as I do miss the retractable headlights & the simplicity of the the first Miatas made.

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  Can I buy another, please? - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By a_mightywind - June 24 - 11:13 pm

  Ive found this to be a terrific car. Its not your typical stodgy wagon. It is fun to drive, the interior fittings are excellent as is the build quality. I still love the aggressive exterior styling. Theyre not being offered in Canada anymore but, Im told, they are being offered in Europe. I hope that situation changes because I would be another for sure.

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  Zoom Zoom Indeed - 2007 Mazda CX-7
  By Chowoldfat - June 24 - 6:00 pm

  Only a month old and I love my CX-7! Coming from my old fullsize SUV, the CX-7 is a ball to drive and it turns heads. The CRV or Subaru may be slightly better vehicles, but who wants to be boring? If youre an aftermarket pimp, the CX-7 is sure to spawn tons of bolt-on goodies. Its too early to judge MPG on my CX-7 yet, but its no Prius.

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  Mazda6 Review - 2008 Mazda Mazda6
  By Erik - June 24 - 1:26 pm

  Pros: Fun to drive, CD player is sick, good pickup, good value, looks hot Cons: not very spacious, fuel economy is only okay

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  good reliable car - 1999 Mazda Protege
  By Maline Johnney - June 24 - 12:56 pm

  When I purchased this vehicle it was used with 24,000. The only major expense was the 02 sensor and a oil leak from the transmission after traveling 159,000 miles. This vehicle has traveled from Wyoming to North Carolina numerous times and continues to allow me to travel to another state bimonthly to take care of my mother. Would recommend this to anyone who is looking for an economical value and a reliable car. Looking to purchase another Mazda along the lines of the new CX-7. Just have to save up for it.

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  I love it! - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By RedViper - June 24 - 12:23 pm

  So far Im very pleased with the purchase. Im still getting used to the advanced features. I guess I simply didnt know that a car could contain this much useful technology after driving a Hyundai Santa Fe for a few years.

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  The greatest vehicle EVER - 2006 Mazda MPV
  By Alotaluv - June 23 - 11:13 am

  When I went shopping for a new automobile, I was convinced that an SUV was right for me. That was until I drove a MPV. When Mazda says it has the soul of a sports car, they mean it. With better fuel economy that SUVs of comparable size, pick up better than most sedans and enough room to fit a love seat in the back, the MPV is the GREATEST automobile I have EVER had the pleasure of purchasing.

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  Fun Drive - 2012 Mazda Mazda3
  By hmm3 - June 23 - 4:33 am

  I have driven the car for about 600 miles. It is fun to drive, steering is precise and gives a great feel for the road. Acceleration is plenty good for an engine this size. I have bee n getting 38-40 miles per gallon driven 2/3 highway 1/3 city. The ride is firm, much more than a Corolla or a Accord. I think it is great for the driver, not so great for every body else. Seats are comfortable with good lumbar support. The blind spot warning system and the adaptative lights are great and function flawlessly. The Bose stereo is very good but not outstanding. Trunk space is limited but OK for a commuter car.

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  Great Value --rides like a Mercedes - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By sixtrix - June 22 - 10:00 am

  The only thing I havent liked about this car-- is that for some reason it feels like there are bigger blind spots than in other cars Ive driven. But other than that I love it. Its fast, tight, quiet and sturdy feeling. Standard cd stereo sounds great.. definately comperable to a jetta or Passat-- but 10,000 cheaper