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 with M2 - 2011 Mazda Mazda2
  By rjfinva - December 7 - 1:13 pm

  Dont know what people expect. If you are looking for a high end expensive sports car, shop on! With the 5 speed, this car has more than enough get up and go, and is a blast to drive. First gear could be a little taller. Seats are frim but nit uncomfortable. It handles like a go cart, and rides like one too, thats the cars design! It holds the road like glue, but picks up all the bumps. I live in Hampton Roads, VA, mostly highway driving, and with premium gas (which I recommend for performance) I average 38 mpg if I drive conservatively. Get a K&N air filter for the performance tweak, its worth the money and the filter saves $$ in the long run as it is washable.

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  The Wifes Toy - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Chris Review - December 6 - 11:46 pm

  Overall this is a very good car. We had some issues early with the dealership and the rear spoiler (color). The car just went into the shop for a leak in the transmission. The dealership says there was a leak at the temperature sensor that was not mounted flush. This leak was discovered at 3,500 miles at a local mechanic -- not the dealer. The car does plow in corners when speed is applied. My wife loves the car and its "pep." The fuel economy is a little weaker than I thought it might be. It also might be our lead foot as well.

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  Happy until - 2003 Mazda MPV
  By KTnNC - December 6 - 11:06 pm

  Purchased our Mazda MPV new in 2003, We were happy with the way it handled and found the van to be very reliable except for a coil replacement at 75,000 miles and oil pan leak at 125,000 miles, seats hard as a rock and now at 140,000 miles the transmission failed on the interstate without notice, leaving us stranded for days. $3200.00 later with a Re-man transmission from the local dealership we are back on the road. Never again Mazda, no second chances.

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  Not an RX7, probably a good thing! - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By DARKCANUCK - December 2 - 1:53 am

  I was feeling sentimental for my twin turbo RX7 when I bought this. There is a familiarity to it, but quite clearly not the same car. Like me I think its a bit better behaved and more pleasant to live with day in and out now. I have had no mechanical complaints. Fuel economy and oil consumption are part of the "experience" of the rotary, but would have liked a larger fuel tank to compensate. Ive also owned a TT and while the RX is not up to that in terms of fit finish and style, its more fun to drive, has room for my kids and is a lot less money!

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  Awesome...but.... - 2001 Mazda Tribute
  By andrewcaudillo - December 1 - 5:44 am

  I love my Mazda, I really do. But after 10 years of babying, I feel that it should fare better than it is. We bought it brand new in late 2000. It looked incredible then, and it still does. However, there are a few issues: 1) (minor) the fabric panelling on the doors is falling off. ($20 fix) 2) (minor) The headlights are all fogged up ($15 fix) 3) (major) The PLASTIC intake manifold gasket has gone bad ($1000 fix) Would I buy another one? Mmm...probably not. Im driving a 2001 Toyota Camry LE (4 cyl) while the Mazdas in the shop, and though it doesnt look as good, drive as well, or sound as awesome, it hasnt given my grandparents a single issue... Ill buy a VW or Toyota next time

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  BEWARE OF THE GAS PUMP!! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By RotaryRules - November 30 - 2:00 am

  The car looks awesome, as we all know!! The car handles great and is very comfortable on a daily commute. This car does NOT get even close to the mpg rating on the sticker, which is 18/25 on the automatic. I have been getting 14 mpg highway with my foot out of it!! They lied about the HP and now this!! My advice by the Nissan Z car and deal with NO rear seat!!

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  Im Very Happy With This Vehicle - 2008 Mazda Tribute Hybrid
  By ddnuutz - November 29 - 10:46 am

  This is my first Mazda and my first Hybrid. I was leery of the 30 to 34 MPG claims because of my past experiences with new vehicles, but I have had this vehicle for several months now and I can say that I have been at or just below 32 MPGs since day 1! This model is almost identical to the Ford Escape which I was considering as well, I went with the Mazda because the interior was more comfortable and the interior (while far from elegant) looked better than Fords version. It drives very well, with solid kick and has great legroom in the back seat. Most other SUVs of this size had my knees banging on the front seat, but not this one. Overall, I am very happy with this purchase.

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  Practically Fun - 2002 Mazda Protege5
  By Morgan Andriulli - November 28 - 10:00 am

  Its amazing how adding a hatch and some spoilers turned the unnoticed Protege into a real looker. Men, women, kids (and insects) all tend to like my Yellow P5. Athletic handling and adequate power match the racy looks. It handles like my 90 Miata, but can haul a lawn mower. It seems that Mazsa build cars with all the reliability and three times the character of Honda and Toyota. Nobody ever asked me about my Corolla at the gas pump. I kind of want some more power and taller gearing. Everything seems to fit and complement each other just so. I am afraid to upset the balance trying to mess with a good thing. Maybe I will grow up and graduate to the new 6 in a few years. Nah!

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  Not sure what to expect, but now happy - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By The Saint - November 27 - 7:26 pm

  I transitioned from a European larger mid-size sedan (VW Passat TDI) to the Mazda6. He interiors are compatible in set up, luxury, & equipment positioning. The interior is well thought out and for the driver as well as passengers. The exterior is exceptional in appearance. The car handled like a dream in very heavy snow this past winter. The 4 cyl. is way under powered and the fuel economy is average when compared to my wifes 4 cyc Accord. The ac system is a bit weak and takes a long time to cool the interior compartment. Mazda seems to like the black interiors and I found it difficult to find a light interior. For the do-it-yourselfer, the vehicle is a delight. A value thus far.

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  Good and Bad - 2008 Mazda Mazda5
  By bsdgbach - November 27 - 4:32 pm

  This van is nice for a short person (under 52") Even with the front seat all the way back a 6 person is crunched up. I get the recommended oil changes and every time I go there is a problem that ends up costing $$$. I even with warranty on it. I have replaced the tires. We bought this in mid 08. with in 6 months the 1 of the brakes had a problem. In the past 6 mo. there is a sorta squeaking sound. Coming from underneath every little bump/turn. Banging from underneath in back last year was fixed. Now another banging coming from front. Mechanic tightened up everything-But still there. Windshield wiper rarely work as supposed to-usually need to adjust manually.