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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  HANDS DOWN - BEST IN CLASS!!! - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By Mazzy - June 9 - 3:56 am

  Had to do my research and Im glad I did! The CX-9 is by far the best value for your $. Bought the GT w/Bose/Moonroof & Power Liftgate pkg. At first i thought i didnt need a power liftgate. Boy was i wrong. Its a must especially with a baby. I also own a Lexus ES300 and i didnt think i would find a more comfortable ride..until now. The CX-9 is all i had hoped for & more. Personally, the CX-9 destroyed the Highlander(3rd row impostor),Pilot, Murano. Skeptics out there looking for a roomy, styling, SUV check out the Mazda CX-9. Youll see and feel the difference. Lastly-Mazda is not owned by Ford. Fords stake in Mazda is 13% & every CX-9 comes from Japan.

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  Perfect - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By rwantin - June 8 - 10:00 am

  I am not entirely sure this much fun (especially handling), looks, usefulness, and quality can be found anywhere at this (or even a bit higher) price. I love this car!

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  SUV? What is that? - 2002 Mazda MPV
  By Denny - June 8 - 10:00 am

  We bought our MPV last October after transporting a family of four around in a sedan and then a grand cherokee there is absolutely no comparison. No wonder minivans are so popular. Acceleration onto the highway is a rush. Handling and visibility are impeccable. The kids love the windows that roll down in the back and the option of side-by- slide depending on who is sitting next to them in the second row. And dont forget the fun option of flipping up the back hatch, flipping over the back seat and watching the kids games comfortably in your third row seat as you face the field. SUV vs. MPV? MPV wins hands-down.

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  The best - 2003 Mazda MPV
  By Judy Petrozzelli - June 8 - 10:00 am

  Ive never owned a Mazda before but so far I love this van. Its perfect because its not to big and it drives like a regular car yet it has the room for seven passangers. It has a beautiful exterior and the driving is very smooth. My husband and I did a lot of research and chose the MPV because of its ratings.

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  Excellent Vehicle - 2003 Mazda Tribute
  By - June 8 - 10:00 am

  Bought a 2003 Tribute a month ago and I absolutely love it!!!!! It handles exceptionally well. Visibility is great!!! It has plenty of room and I love the sound system. I would definetely recommend this vehicle to anyone that is looking for a stylish, comfortable and reliable SUV.

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  Having fun with my CX-7 - 2007 Mazda CX-7
  By FlaZoomy - June 7 - 1:26 am

  After almost a year with this SUV, Ive been very pleased. No major problems only a few recalls and TSBs to improve drivability. I love the unique styling through out. Maybe gets mistaken for a Lexus RX. Gas mileage is not great, I average around 19 in town and 22 on the road cruising around 75 mph. The interior styling is good but the need to improve the cheap looking plastics.

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  ALMOST perfect - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By vman - June 5 - 3:40 am

  Great all around car. Handles like a dream (Volvo S40 underpinnings). Brakes like a roller coaster. Quick revving engine. Auto transmission is eager to downshift, sometimes too eager. Only gripes, no MP3 input and mileage from EPA overstated. If you are considering a Civic, Corolla or a Rabbit, get your head examined. They are a joke. If you are looking at a Civic Si, look at the MazdaSpeed 3. No comparing the two.

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  Happy with my fourth mazda - 1998 Mazda 626
  By D.Rathbun - June 4 - 10:00 am

  This 98 626 has never reqired any repairs except an ABS sensor @30K. It is a 5 speed manual which seems to be more reliable than the automatics. I change the oil every 3000 miles and keep up with scheduled services and have yet to have a hint of a problem. Im a little worried about the Ford connection as my well cared for Windstars engine blew up after 61,000 miles. The car has plenty of pep with the 5 speed and appears to be utterly reliable...more trouble free than my Honda accord which puts it in good company. It also handles well in snow and ice but will bog down in the really deep stuff.

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  Great size, good fuel efficiency - 2000 Mazda MPV
  By Alf - June 4 - 10:00 am

  Had a Windstar, found it too large and heavy; bought an MPV, found it just perfect for a family of four, who loves to travel.

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  my pretty car - 2003 Mazda Protege
  By emily - June 4 - 10:00 am

  i have had this car for a year and have never had any problems withit. it is very reliable, fun to drive and built well. i also like the features that came with it, like the alloy wheels and the tires.