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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  Handles like a sports car - 2016 Mazda CX-3
  By Dave Newberry - October 12 - 2:31 pm

  This is an amazing Sub SUV. Handles like a sports car, safety and technology are amazing for the price point. Fun to drive like nothing in the class. Interior materials match much more expensive vehicles. The only drawback is the small interior space. If you need space get the CX5. My wife drives the 2015 CX5 and loves it. But this CX3 is a kick to drive. HUD is really cool. Recommendation for Mazda, dont over complicate your technology. There are more steps to switch, set up or navigate than necessary. It is very intuitive, but feels like everything takes one or two steps more than are really necessary. Obviously, this did not deter me as it is similar to the 2015 CX5 we have put over 20K and and love it still. Loved this CX3. Driven in rain and dry pavement so far, amazing traction. Waiting for snow to see how we do, but I have every expectation, the AWD will be handle that well also.

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  LOVE IT! - 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Tom - October 12 - 12:33 am

  What a great car. I love the velocity red! The rims are a nice bonus. I would really push you to get a Limited if you can get your hands on one. This car handles like a dream.

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  Arrest Me Red Mazda 3 Sport GT - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By XPTaurus - October 11 - 10:50 am

  I own the Mazda 3 Sport GT. I was a die hard Honda fan. One look and a test drive changed all that! I absolutely love this car! Thanks Mazda. Its got the feel of a formula vehicle.You can actually feel it in the drive. Handles great in our harsh Canadian winters. I know because I have an hour drive to work every morning then an hour home every night. I even tried talking my wife into getting one. Thanks again Mazda.

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  No regrets - 2008 Mazda CX-7
  By dnalor - October 11 - 9:16 am

  After weeks of surfing and comparison with competitors, my wife and I knew the fact that this is no fuel economy CUV. We decided anyway to purchase the top of the line selection in brilliant black. We just absolutely love this CUV. All the other details to this CUV overshadows the fuel consumption dilema. My wife now prefers to enjoy the ride while watching her movies on the ent. system. You can not go wrong with the BOSE sound system. What outside noise? Its built solid. I would definitely recommend this CX7 if gas is not a factor with your decision. I recommend the AERO package. We also opted to install the IPOD adapter with our dealer.

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  Great LIttle Minivan (As Minivans Go) - 2000 Mazda MPV
  By Bad Dog - October 11 - 4:10 am

  I really didnt want to get a minivan, but this is a nice little minivan if you have to have one. It looks pretty sharp, has plenty of zip, the stereo rocks out nicely, and it has nice features ... many of which werent available on other minivans when I bought this one.

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  Nice Car - 2007 Mazda Mazda5
  By Scott - October 10 - 10:26 am

  We have owned the car for two weeks and it has been a pleasure to drive. First gas tank of all city driving came in at an average mpg of 23, even with some of my higher RPM start-ups. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a compromise between some of the desirable features of a minivan and a station wagon. Great value for the price.

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  1st truck Wow - 2003 Mazda Truck
  By SunburstRed B2300 Tr - October 10 - 10:16 am

  I bought this truck new in AZ, no trouble with a/c, cold even at +117 degrees! Its a stick: could use more zip doing mountains, fine if you dont get stuck behind a slow truck and have to accelerate from 30 mph on 6000ft grade. Moved to Indiana, heater warms quickly, far less traction problems than full size van I drove. Not one mechanical problem, piled it high for move, over 2500 miles, very stable in winds, rain; good fuel economy with the extreme gas prices. Very nice turning ratio, good visibility overall.

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  Great Wagon with Sports Car Feel - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By MN Snowman - October 10 - 7:40 am

  I traded my 02 Passat for the wagon ... that lets my wife drive a sedan rather than her Volvo wagon. I was impressed with the interior design/colors and the exterior color (I have the Firemist red with tan interior ... looks very sharp and Ive gotten a number of favorable comments). Ive liked the responsiveness of the engine and the manual transmission is very nice. Weve taken two longer road trips (one at 2200 miles and the other at 1200 miles) -- its a very comfortable highway car. The Sirius radio option is a delight on highway cruises as well. Around town, it gets decent mileage and handles well. Im pleased with the purchase & the end-of-year discounts!

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  CX-9 - nice crossover - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By roman - October 9 - 5:56 pm

  Weve had the vehicle for about two weeks now and we love it. The ride is nice and comfortable, my wife and kids love it. We were strongly considering an MDX, but after test driving the CX-9 we fell in love with it. We got a Touring package which has similar options as a basic MDX, but 10K less. I think Mazda has done a great job with the exterior design of the CX-9.

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  2008 Mazda 6i Grand Touring - 2008 Mazda Mazda6
  By Robert145 - October 9 - 10:13 am

  So far, so good. Ive only driven it about 600 mi. but according to my numbers, Im getting more like 27 mpg around town. I have tested it at 1/4 tank and 1/2 tank. Being an 18 gal. tank, Im averaging 500 mi. per tank. I havent had the car on the highway yet. Time will tell. The car is very responsive and fun to drive. Very comfortable to drive. The 8 way drivers seat offers good adjustments. Im 61" tall with long legs. Plenty of room.