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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  Impressed - 2008 Mazda Mazda6
  By Matt - November 16 - 1:13 pm

  OK, first I need to provide a little background on my previous vehicles; my last 6 vehicles have all been V8s, they have also all been GMs. That being said, a 4 cyl. motor is going to feel down on TQ and HP, no matter who builds it. And, I was fully prepared for that before I bought the 6. I love this car, period. I am a sales rep and I drive a lot for work. I wanted a taut, well mannered car that had a sporty feel and was good on gas. The 6 fits the bill. I bought my 08 used with only 8300 miles. For the price this car cant be beat. Long road trips are a breeze. I can drive 250+ miles nonstop, and get out feeling very little signs of discomfort or fatigue. I am 63".

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  I Cant Complain - 2002 Mazda MPV
  By wiz8mom - November 16 - 12:37 am

  We purchased our MPV used in 2005 with about 45,000 miles on it. With an extended warranty, we paid total about $11,000. It now has 227,000 miles on it (365,000km). We had to have the transmission replaced at 95K miles, but it was covered under our extended warranty. We had coils replaced at one point, and a couple of other repairs around the $300 mark. Regular oil changes and routine maintenance (brakes, trans. fluid, etc), this van has kept chugging along. Along with daily driving, we drove from Auburn, WA to B.C. Canada twice a week for 2 years (6 hours round trip), while hauling 2 drums, harnesses, 2 sets of bagpipes, and 4 teenagers, 2 adults. We averaged 22-24 hwy mpg

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  Love my CX-9 - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By John Stark - November 15 - 11:56 pm

  I test drove the 2010 CX-9, Highlander, Acadia and Flex. Key requirement was 3rd row of seats and fun to drive. After driving and researching all it came down to the Highlander and CX-9. Mazda CX-9 won on these items: - 3rd row is split. - More room behind 3rd row. Highlander barely had room for a row of groceries. - Access to 3rd row was WAY easier for the munchkins and adults than the Higlander. - Cx-9 is was more fun to drive. I liked the Highlander, but the Mazda has way more performance. Engine is smooth and shifts almost stealth. - Fit and finish is solid. Very nice looking car.

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  Great SUV, except for the headlights - 2010 Mazda CX-7
  By texastownhall - November 15 - 10:39 pm

  Had it for 4 years 65K miles. Great car, handling and space, except headlight issues. In addition to bulb going out several times, in 4 years, dim headlights. Took it to the dealer and they said, the discolored dim is actually inside and it is due to angle design of headlights and the heat from the bulbs. Only solution was to pay $1,500 new headlights. I was mad as is is Mazda design issue not something I did wrong. I drove it as is until couple fender bender at night and hitting the curve at night all due to dim headlights. Asked dealer about warranty if I do get it fixed. 1 year and problem may be back. I sold it as it was getting too dangerous. I will never buy another Mazda.

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  My P5 - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By Jana D - November 15 - 2:00 am

  When I went looking for my first brand new car- I was expecting a lot from the car I chose. The only specific ideas I had were that I wanted a hatchback, but I also wanted four door. I wanted a sporty yet comfortable car that I could play in on the weekends and that would be reliable in any situation. It took me five months of research to find the car I eventually bought, and I must say it was worth the time and effort I put into finding my new car. I am more confident in my driving because of it. I love that the back seats lay down for extra cargo room, but it isnt a huge "soccer mom" car that most people picture when you say "wagon". I love my car!

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  21 again - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By SinCityRX8 - November 15 - 2:00 am

  Its been 17 years since I had a sports car, almost forgot how much fun it was to drive one. Ok, ok, so there is some debate on whether its a sports car or not, but sure drives like one. Great styling too, and is a head turner. Hearing and seeing the rpm at 6000+ is just a music to my ears. Gas milage? Been having too much fun to notice, but am sure will notice it sooner or later.

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  check it out - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By chris bager - November 15 - 2:00 am

  so far I have no complaints..If things continue I will be a happy camper..As you can see above I am very satisfied so far and hope this will induce others/

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  So Far.....So Good - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Mr-BTJ - November 15 - 2:00 am

  Picked the vechile up at the beginning of November...I love it so far...I only have 800 miles on it but I love the sportsy feel and look of this vechile. I chose it over the Nissan Altima and Maxima...

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  Super cool - 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Nancy McKay - November 14 - 6:48 pm

  This car lives up to all its performance reviews. Its sleek sporty and overall hot

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  Great Car for a small family!! - 2009 Mazda Mazda5
  By skgilly - November 13 - 3:56 pm

  We bought this car in Colorado and drove it Arkansas. It was great for me and my family. We have two kids (3.5, and 10 months). My wife sat comfortably in the back with the kid and luggage. We really packed this car down and still handled well. There are many way to configure the car and sitting six for short distances is great. For all the mini van haters the sliding doors are great for getting the kids in and out. Handling is great for a car this size. Overall, great car for the money. Mazda has done well. We are really enjoying this purchase.