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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  Classy - 2002 Mazda Protege
  By Racer1978 - December 20 - 7:50 am

  I bought this car to replace my old 2002 Toyota Celica GT (engine went at 19,000mi). I had looked at other cars, namely the Audi A4 but decided against it due to high maintainence costs. Then I looked at this 2002 Mazda Protege ES which provided a BMW like driving experience along with an attractive, sporty interior/exterior. I have had this car almost 7 months; there have been no problems whatsoever. Which is suprising since I learned to drive standard on this car. You would think all the bucking, stalling and over revving would have damaged it, I guess not. The car is as strong as ever *knock on wood.* Great car for the money.

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  a - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By wife happy - December 20 - 2:50 am

  Ive had this car for a year, so far it is still a treat to drive. Its a great change from what is out there on the roads. For a family of four its a great midsize value. My wife loves it and has been more than pleased with it. Im impressed with Mazda, theyve done a good job with this vehicle.

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  So far so good - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By cueball - December 20 - 2:00 am

  Have not had it long, but so far really enjoying the car. Also test drove the Matrix, Vibe, Civic, and Corolla. Liked the Matrix, but would have felt like a fool revving around like you have to in order to get any kind of power. Also, the gauges in the Matrix/Vibe need changes, as does the ridiculous back-up alarm. The Protege5 handles so well, I am intimidated to seek out its limits. The ABS system works beautifully. The shifter and clutch are very, very smooth. And so far the dealership has been equally kind and helpful after the sale as they were before the sale.

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  fun to drive - 2003 Mazda MPV
  By vahun - December 20 - 2:00 am

  Have enjoyed this van. Have gone from a short wheel-based Aerostar to extended Aerostar to Grand Caravan during the past 16 years, and this is by far the most fun to drive. Am a little concerned with the transmission, it shifts harshly when cold, and gas mileage, which has not been stellar (but better than my other vans). The power and handling have been intoxicating for this type of vehicle. And I enjoy the flat-folding rear seat.

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  19,000 miles later and still loving it! - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By QTL - December 19 - 1:10 am

  (Black Manual Loaded)Ive had it for 1.25yrs, and I still look forward to driving it everyday. It has a lot of sex appeal both here and in Canada, and Ive noticed that a lot of other young professionals are now driving the 6. At red lights, girls have smiled and waved to me, and guys have challenged me to numerous races. It handles well, looks great, has all of the features I wanted, and was well priced. Fuel economy at 23.58mpg is alright considering the way I drive (yes I keep an Excel sheet with my carÂ’s stats). Ive noticed minor rattles in cold weather, but I havent had any mechanical problems or had any unscheduled maintenance. I wish I waited for the 5-door.

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  Excellent car - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By Cliff - December 19 - 12:53 am

  This car is amazing. Great all around car. For everyone out there that talks about lack of torque, buy a big block. This car is like a turbo car. Power is there when you need it; all you have to do is shift (part of the fun). Fuel economy?? This is a sports car! Buy a hybrid if fuel is a major concern. If you want a good "all around" car that seats 4 and is a blast to drive, the RX-8 is it.

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  Not for everyone, perfect for some - 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Robert Fisher - December 18 - 8:27 am

  Accept its design and purpose and dont buy it if or complain theres not enuf room or power. This is a specialty car designed for specific drivers who want a dedicated purpose and ride.

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  Get a 3, forget the new Civic - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Sam Brenner - December 17 - 12:03 am

  After owning a 2006 Honda Civic EX coupe for just 4 months, I was very UNDERWHELMED by this vehicle. Fortunately, my local Mazda dealer was eager to sell me a new Mazda3 S Touring sedan. What a difference in vehicles! My 3 has much more pickup; has better visibility (I can actually see both the front and rear of the Mazda); and is great fun to drive! The Honda did get a few more miles-per-gallon, but I am getting even more SMILES-PER-GALLON in my new Mazda3.

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  Excellent value - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Nelson Maylone - December 16 - 4:43 am

  This is by far the best car in its price range. It feels like a car costing several $K more. No comparison with so-called competitors like Corolla, Cobalt, Caliber, etc. (Maybe a Civic comes close.) The Mazda3 just does not feel like a small car. The 2.0 engine is more than adequate, reasonably quiet and zippy. I saw no reason to go the 2.3 for extra dollars. Handling is great, goes where you tell it to go. Brakes inspire confidence. Basic stereo is quite good. (I wanted the upgrade, but would have to have taken moonroof and other gimmicks.) Styling is fabulous, sporty but not too much so. Mileage is as advertised, but certainly no better.

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  To Die For - 2002 Mazda Millenia
  By Anthonys Millenia S - December 15 - 11:30 pm

  I leased this car brand new and after the lease I had to buy it. Its a great car, (good going Mazda). It has 47,xxx miles and all Ive had to do is change the oil and buy new brakes. Of course I buy a lot of extras just to assure its performance. Usually Mazda has bad transmissions but the Millenia S proved me wrong. Its a smart choice for a used car. When this one dies Im going to look for another one with low miles.