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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  Great Value - 2012 Mazda Mazda5
  By ivanch - September 2 - 8:06 pm

  The Mazda 5 offers great value for the money. I purchased a brand new 2012 model in March 2013 with a nice discount where the price was comparable to a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. At that price, the extra room of the Mazda 5 made it an unbeatable deal. The Mazda 5 touring is a great vehicle because it fits 6 passengers, it is fun to drive, it is the perfect size for a person who either wants a smaller minivan or a larger car. This vehicle can take kids around but also serves as a nice commuter car with ample room and height when compared to other cars.

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  Excellent - 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Hydro - September 2 - 12:23 pm

  This car has great handling but theres room for improvement. What it lacks in power makes up for taking turns at 40 mph. For what it is, its a great value for the amount of fun you will have. Yes, the interior is a little "cheap", but you get what you pay for. If that bothers you spend couple bucks and put some nice leather pieces in it. Ive heard a million times that the car is girlie. To be honest, Ive only gotten compliments ever since. Ive had it for 3 months (an automatic), no problems and smiles everyday. As a daily driver back and forth to work the auto is great.

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  2000 mazda 626 - 2000 Mazda 626
  By lorgan - August 30 - 12:24 pm

  hi, i had a 1993 mazda 626 a few year ago, i have to say it was a brilliant car, i had it 2 years and i never had any trouble with it. I recently purchased a 2000 mazda 626 , which is about 10 year old. I didnt expect to get a perfect car second hand , i knew it needed some work, i got a set of spark plugs, rear right hand brake caliber and an altenator belt. I feel the same about this car as i did about my first one, its like a big tank, a big bird on the road, u really get noticed in it. lol. Its quiet, comfortable, and reliable. I always wanted another 626 after my first one.

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  Great for a first car or for a new feel - 2001 Mazda Protege
  By Kushiaji - August 30 - 2:00 am

  I just recently purchased my 01 Protege, so I may seem biased by posting a review quickly. However, it was one of two vehicles and the Protege was the one I prefered NOT to have. After a day I noticed the ride was smooth, the interior console was sleek, and it has a style of class all its own. For those who want a car no one else really has, this will make you stand out with shimmering beauty. I recommend this to anyone looking for more quality per buck.

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  Great deal for a great car - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By t. p. - August 29 - 10:13 pm

  My first new car purchase. Ive had this car for 3 weeks now and it is great. I enjoy driving it everyday (plus you dont feel so bad b/c it gets very good gas mileage). Mine has ABS/sideairbags, moonroof, 6 disk, tpms, 5 spd, xenon,step plates, wheel moldings and diffuserplate. I would suggest finding one with ABS/airbags b/c tests show poor side impact ratings w/o sideairbags. ABS brakes feel great stopping the car. Step plates are good cheap option for protecting rear bumper. I would not suggest buying arch moldings or diffuser since they are non- functional. Ride is firm which I like. I highly recommend this vehicle. Get the stick if you can; manumatic will not allow downshifting as i wish

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  Who Needs a Minivan? Not me. - 2009 Mazda Mazda5
  By JRod - August 28 - 9:13 pm

  Test drove a KIA Sedona first - roomy, good engine, plenty of utility, but the seats KILLED my lower back, more road noise than expected, drove a little wide, and the fuel consumption turned me off. Tried a KIA Rondo. Its more comfy, but the 3rd row is a joke. Tried the Mazda5 - QUIETER than Sedona, comfy seats, handling is WOW, took the road bumps well, mileage saves me $1200+/yr in gas compared to minivan. Highway is little noisy, but better with whole family. 3rd row is decent with LEGROOM + 2nd row adjusts. Perfect for small family and grandpa can tag along inside. Rides nicer than Mazda3. Kids love the windows. Brakes VERY well. I hear it eats tires, so inflate and rotate!

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  Only one complaint - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By elgin - August 28 - 10:00 am

  I have 8,000+ miles on my Tribute. I had a hard time making up my mind what to buy. I am very happy with my purchase. My children love the SUV. With 3 vehicles in the house to drive, they are constantly borrowing it.

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  A solid B performer - 2003 Mazda Tribute
  By FCM3 - August 23 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my LX -4X4 for 1yr and 2 months now (15K) and I rate the car as a solid B+. The car is speedy, handles well, and acts like a car. The down side is I ve had 3 warrenty items fixed ( I am going in for a 4th next week-the sunroof stopped working) all have been nuiscences that have required the car to stay at the dealership for 1 or 2 days. However the problems started after 8 hassle free months.(sagging headliner, check engine light(bad O2 sensor), and 4X4 switch broke-in on position. I average 18mpg/city and 21 on the highway. Ive been overall pleased w/ the ride, handling, power, and space. For the $$ this has been a good car.

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  Love This 3 - 2014 Mazda Mazda3
  By fluffyan - August 23 - 5:18 am

  I have owned this 2014 Mazda 3 for two months, have a little over 1,000 miles on it. So far, I am very happy with it, although I wish it got closer to the 30 mpg rating. I looked at Toyotas, Scion FR-S, and checked online on Fords, Chevys, and Nissans. The Mazda 3 manual is so much more fun to drive than anything else I drove, and it met most of my other criteria. I had driven a Camry stick for the last 12 years. The Mazda 3 is a little smaller, but also quicker and way, way more fun. It has a little more style than the same-old-same-old looks of most sedans. I am getting 26mpg, wanted more, but I recommend this car!

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  The best handling, and fuel economy - 2000 Mazda Protege
  By Opher - August 21 - 8:10 am

  I have had this car for the last 9 months, and I dont remember any car having such perfect handling in rain or winding roads. It sticks like super glue to the road, plus I drive it about 60 miles a day to work and get 34 mpg!