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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  No Regrets! - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By MikeyMike - October 14 - 10:00 am

  I havent had one regret on this purchase since day 1. Ive owned 7 cars and excluding my 1970 Triumph, this is the most fun car Ive ever driven. The handling, comfort and features all fit my driving style perfectly. I can take off-ramps at speeds that scare my wife, take off when I need to move quick, idle quietly at red lights, etc. Im not quite hitting the EPA mileage, but I drive hard and I get about 22-25 city depending on how rough I run it. Only quality issue I have is the cover to my GPS memory card on the dash broke and fell off on its own. They replaced it free, but annoying to deal with. And for those that dont like the "smile" grill, I love it!

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  Mazda All the Way - 2000 Mazda Protege
  By DA2799 - October 14 - 5:06 am

  Purchased my Protege and have had 50k trouble free miles to date. What this little rocket lacks in power it makes up for in handling and sheer driving pleasure. Ive replaced the original tires with Pirelli PZero Neros and they are a blast on this car. Other than the lack of sheer power I love this car. Other than normal maintenance this is the most trouble free car Ive owned; starts always not a worry to report.

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  Highly Recommend - 2004 Mazda MPV
  By MPV Mom of 3 - October 13 - 10:33 pm

  We bought our 2004 ES new and got a great deal with rebates & discounts. I thought I really wanted an Odyssey because Ive always had Hondas, but after driving this one I was sold! Much nicer layout on inside, had more room up front for my 6 foot 2 husband and that really sold him (he did not want a minivan at all, but after he drove it he changed his mind). It is just a beautiful van and drives like a dream! We have 3 kids and theres plenty of room for everyone even with the baby seat (love the latch system for the infant seat). The MPV was a much better buy than the Odyssey and looks so much better. I also like that it is a bit smaller and Im not driving a big box!

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  New Tribute - 2005 Mazda Tribute
  By Craig - October 13 - 7:53 pm

  I just purchased a new Tribute and couldnt be happier. I had been looking into them for a while and was glad to finally get one. I think they are the best small SUV on the market. I would recommend that everyone try fightingchance.com to get the best price, I got mine $526 BELOW invoice cost. Deals are out there, you just have to look.

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  Transmission failed at 65,000 miles - 2008 Mazda Mazda5
  By melissad1 - October 12 - 8:18 pm

  I bought a used 2008 Mazda5 two years ago. It has been a fairly decent car, good interior space and gas mileage. Recently, the AT light came on. I took it to our local reliable mechanic. The car now needs a new transmission. I called and pleaded our case with the local Mazda dealership and with Mazda US. Neither of them will do anything to help us. They wont even offer discounted parts. It is ridiculous that the transmission would fail at 65,000 miles. It is even more ridiculous that Mazda doesnt stand behind their cars. I cannot recommend that anyone purchase this car or any Mazda for that matter.

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  Mazda 5 has Zoom Zoom - 2006 Mazda Mazda5
  By Trentonhodges - October 12 - 3:56 pm

  This is car is just the right size for all my needs. The seats fold down to create more room than I ever expected and when they are up they give me extra space for my girls and their friends. The great thing is that it drives and parks like a car while giving me the space of a larger size minivan or SUV.

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  Family rotory rocket! - 2007 Mazda RX-8
  By Rex8it - October 11 - 10:23 pm

  Two weeks after I bought the car my wife found out we are having a baby! Im glad I didnt get that Z4! The car has been great over the past 3 months. I have never had it in the shop and it eats corners. My friend races on the track and he was very impressed with the stock handling. Brakes are good and man have I needed them. The steering response and feel is amazing. I love how light and nimble it feels. And what can you say about the engine! It sounds great and has great pep at the high revs. When you are up around 6,500 rpm the thing moves! Not so great at low rpm though. I have to say that the only reason i didnt give it all 10s is because it is not an exotic and I want one!

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  I love this car - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By Marcia W - October 11 - 9:30 pm

  Traded in a Miata for this car with no regrets so far. I love the interior and titanium grey color. I love the suicide doors where I can put my bags. The back seats are comfy too.

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  Love My 3 - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
  By dark_temp - October 11 - 7:16 am

  I bought my 3 last summer at 13k miles and have loved it since. it handles very well even at over 100+ mph, with previous racing experience and looking for a practical college car I found my baby. attractive enough to get compliments from others and with the 2.0 I, engine speeds up considerately enough to drive on the freeway with confidence (better torque and pick up with the 2.3 engines though, take note to that!). I often forget im going 90 because i dont even notice!?, cabin is quiet without its oem wheels and very stable driving. snow was no problem and neither hills. still loving my car looks cool but not overbearing.

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  Excellent sedan - 2003 Mazda Protege
  By RK - October 11 - 1:13 am

  Bought the car new, 5 speed trans. running fine, going on its 6th year. I have driven it across country three times and have had no issues. Always changed oil between 4k-5k use synthetic. With clean air filter on the highway Ive gotten 32 MPG. Control is tight and a blast to drive on good roads. Suspension may be to stiff for some on bumpy roads. Very happy with interior, sunroof and 6 CD deck (all work fine). Also like the red interior lights (good on the eyes.