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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  Good but with flaws - 2001 Mazda 626
  By mchilders - February 20 - 10:00 am

  I bought the four cylinder LX after comparing to other cars. After driving for a couple of months I think I should have gone back to Mitsubishi. The automatic used with the four is from Ford, same one used on the Contour/Mystique line. Not very smooth shifting, quite jerky. Dealer recommended aftermarket cooler so that transmission wont burn out so soon. Talking to others with this car that seems to be a common problem. Been to service a couple of times for warranty work on interior panels and that in window antenna. Replaced rear glass due to faulty antenna (radio would go out when rear defrost is on.)

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  We have really enjoyed this car - 2007 Mazda CX-7
  By AJ - February 18 - 8:16 am

  We leased our CX-7 in Mar. of 07 when the model was brand new. We have loved this car. We are spoiled with the sunroof, back-up camera, navigation and space. Our budget is less now, so we will have to give up some of these conveniences in our next car. I agree about the rough ride. Tires wear out very quickly and the ride gets rough and noisy when the tires begin to wear out. We have had a TERRIBLE time with the AC. Went out in Mar. 09, then 3 days after the warranty expired in Mar. 10, it went out again! Hassled with the dealer; they initially refused to cover it and charged us $100 to diagnose it. They ended up installing a new unit and refunded the $100. No other mechanic prob.

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  First Mazda Owned - 2007 Mazda CX-7
  By PH - February 18 - 1:36 am

  We traded a Mitsubishi Endeavor for this CX-7 which was a downsizing for us. Gas mileage about the same so far. Dealer suggested regular unleaded gas, but have been afraid to try that yet. Changes gears quite frequently driving in the mountains like we do. Overall satisfied so far.

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  My favorite Mazda yet! - 2013 Mazda CX-5
  By asilver89 - February 17 - 6:56 pm

  I purchased my zeal red 2013 Mazda CX-5 in AWD touring package in January 2013. I absolutely love this vehicle! This is my 3rd Mazda. My first was a 2004 3 touring (GS), and the second was a 2007 3 GT Sport hatch. I purchased the CX-5 because I wanted an awd vehicle with good fuel economy. The exterior is beautiful, interior is simple, yet clean and easy to look at. Fuel economy is wonderful (actually better than my Mazda 3GT was!) I have no complaints about this purchase. Yes it is slightly underpowered, but I only notice that while merging onto the highway. I almost bought a CX-7 I test drove a few months prior to this and WOW am I ever glad I didnt.

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  More fun than a Civic or Corolla - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By gantw - February 16 - 5:53 pm

  I bought my Mazda3 after owning two Honda Civics and a Toyota Corolla. The Mazda feels like a race car in comparison: peppy 2.3L engine, strong 4-wheel disc brakes, quick steering, precise clutch/ shifter, and firm suspension/tight handling. I plan to drive my car in autocross races -- its handling is that good. On the flip side, my Mazda3s build quality is poor compared to Honda or Toyota standards. After just four months and 5,000 miles, my car has more rattles in the dash and doors than one of my Civics had after eight years and 110,000 miles! My cars fuel economy (2.3L engine/manual trans./moderate throttle) has been 25-27 mpg city (A/C on) to 30-31 mpg city (A/C off).

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  The Pros and Cons of a Mazda6 - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By jcurve - February 15 - 5:56 pm

  The 2.3L 4-cylinder engine found in the Mazda6 is completely adequate for most people, but when combined with the body of the Mazda6, causes some noticeable deficiencies. 1) The body weighs too much overall. This leads to mediocre acceleration. I will say, however, the speed and power available on long uphill grades is above average. 2) The body is low-profile. This means you cant put standard chains on the front tires. Only cables or low-profile chains (which are extremely expensive). 3) If you drive much past 90 mph, the downforce winds and centrifugal force on the tires cause the tires to rub against the wheel wells. The engine is capable of more than the body can take

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  One of the best car we have ever owned - 2003 Mazda MPV
  By rjoe1 - February 13 - 3:36 am

  Our 2003 MPV has 60 miles on it and is one of the best buys we ever made. Its been a great "school bus" for the grandkids, a versatile hauler for big purchases or trips to the dump. Its been very reliable, with only one set of tires and normal oil change maintenance needed.

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  18 Months of Driving - 2012 Mazda Mazda3
  By bronxy192 - February 10 - 8:18 pm

  Ive had this car for 18 months now with over 8,000 miles. Its a skyactiv 6 speed manual. The only complaints I have thus far is the acceleration and the middle console. I find myself needing to downshift to pick up any speed. Its a bit sluggish, but once at cruising speed on the highway, the 3 drives great. The suspension is good. I have hit several pot small holes after a wild winter here in New Jersey, and the 3 has handled them with no problems. The middle console is little to be desired. I wish the arm rest would slide out to accommodate my arm, but its very short and placed in an odd position. It has storage and I find I need to shift and turn my body around to open it.

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  Very good, but not without its faults - 2003 Mazda MPV
  By FatherOfTwo - February 8 - 10:00 am

  After much research, the wife and I decided to go with the LX MPV, with most of the trimmings: Power doors, DVD, 4 seasons package, etc... We were able to get everything we wanted on the LX, saving ourselves about $7K over the Odyssey (31K w/ DVD). Weve had it for about a month now and are happy with our choice except for a few things. See below. 1. There is a fan on the DVD player that goes ALL the time, regardless if the unit is on or not. No help from dealer: "its supposed to be like that". Continued below (Im over 700 characters)

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  Commuting is fun again - 2014 Mazda Mazda3
  By daveshoot - January 29 - 4:14 am

  I have been driving 45 mi. per day in an older Tacoma, so perhaps I am too easily impressed... but this car is amazing. Exterior looks, check. Just look at one. Interior is wow! for a Mazda, and the seats are very comfortable. This model is loaded with tech, like the radar blind spot detection, pacing cruise control, impressive and intuitive infotainment system, adaptive headlights that steer, etc. But driving is what its all about and its what this Mazda is all about. It is fast and nimble. Until you hit the Sport mode button, it is really just a very tight and competent little car. The Sport mode unleashes its inner potential and it just wants to go. I am glad I got the 2.5L!