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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  happy to buy it - 2006 Mazda Tribute
  By mulawin - September 27 - 12:53 am

  We just got the Tribute after all the research on the net and I can say the roomy interior surprised me! I was glad I chose it over the CRV which is smaller and has a less classy feel on the inside. My husband loves the way it handles like a small car but packs power. Windows are tinted and I love the lighted vanity mirrors. How considerate. I also appreciate that they made the roof rack standard. Like it outside and inside. Its a very nice SUV to have.

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  2005 RX-8 - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By JROD33182 - September 26 - 9:20 am

  Did not think the tiny rotary engine would be so quick. On the test drive I noticed right away the car loves the road, sticks like glue at high speed.

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  Zoom Zoom Zoom of a SUV - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By John Bell - September 25 - 10:00 am

  This is a fun car to drive, Handles well in all conditions. V6 offers great pickup. Very good gas MPG.

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  car of my own - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By mags84 - September 22 - 11:46 pm

  The mazda 3 has never disappointed me in the 5 months of owning it, easily the best car I have driven in terms of handling, performance on and off the highway, and overall style.

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  My SECOND Mazda3 in 2 MONTHS! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By BostonZoomZoom - September 22 - 10:23 pm

  I bought the Mazda3 s 2.3 in April of 05. Got into a head on collision, and walked away without a scratch. Since my new baby was totaled, I went out and bought a new one, except I bought the Special Edition (SP23). I loved the BOSE system, the Leather and the Heated Seates. Also has 17" Alloys instead of the 16" on the other one. I cant be more happy with this car. It truly is the best car in its class for the value. Holds a corner like it is on rails!

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  Tribute - 2005 Mazda Tribute
  By Shannon Deville - September 22 - 10:00 am

  Great Buy for comfort, duriabilty, sporty, and a fun drive. Strongly sugeest a test ride.

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  2004 Mazda 3 S - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By h2win - September 22 - 10:00 am

  You cant go wrong with this vehicle. Good mileage, responsive speed, acceleration is great. One of the best interior design Ive ever seen. Dont go with Honda or Toyota their interior design just cant compare to this one. You dont want to drive a car that everyone has do you? This car has very good horsepower and torque. It can take civics and Corolla with ease.

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  great car , bad stereo - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By roj - September 22 - 10:00 am

  Bought the hatchback with sunroof and ABS. Have not broken it in yet..Opted for the auto since I felt the performance was close to the manual, also better in traffic:) Handling is exceptional, highway driving is smooth..was doing 80mph and did not even feel like I was going fast. Brakes are excellent. Engine could be a little more responsive but for a 4 cylinder is excellent..I am coming from the maxima engine, so I am a little spoiled. Plus my wife has Toyota Matrix XRS, which I feel has a more fun to drive engine...but Mazda 3 beats the XRS in build quality.

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  As cool as a minivan can be - 2007 Mazda Mazda5
  By Jen - September 21 - 8:46 pm

  I like small cars but need space to carry furniture. This mini minivan is the perfect solution! It drives like a car, with no swaying around corners like the Odyssey or Sienna. Super maneuverability; the turning radius is surprisingly tiny. The cool exterior styling means I dont feel like a soccer mom. Very comfortable interior and handy controls on the steering wheel. Manual shift option is great for driving in the mountains. Im surprised at mileage complaints. I have carefully recorded my mileage the entire 10 months Ive had the car and I average 27 mpg mixed use. Driving style matters, though; I drive no more than 5-8 mph over the speed limit and I dont speed away from stoplights.

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  tribute - 2005 Mazda Tribute
  By denise - September 21 - 10:46 am

  this suv is the best. fun to drive.....fantastic car. smooth driving especially on the highway.