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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  Great car - 2014 Mazda Mazda3
  By dtom1 - July 17 - 6:02 am

  I bought a 2014 Mazda 3 Touring in May 2014. So far Im very satisfied with its performance, fuel economy, ride and handling. Its giving 32 mpg and I drive mostly within the city. On highways the car is extremely stable and predictable.

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  Sweet Package - 2006 Mazda Mazda5
  By prulex - July 15 - 9:06 am

  I was looking for a cross between an SUV (of which Ive owned 2) and a station wagon. Ive found it...the only one in its class. If youre looking for a 7-seater...the 5 is not for you. If youre looking for a compact 6-seater with awesome features and looks, consider the 5. So far, Im impressed with its fit and finish and interior comfort level.

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  Love the Miata - 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By LiMiata - July 15 - 2:00 am

  I leased my first one, I bought my 2nd one. Fun to drive, makes me smile

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  zoom, zoom, zoom - 2004 Mazda Tribute
  By Hoppy41 - July 15 - 2:00 am

  The way I was able to just get into this vehicle and drive it was unexplainable. The smoothness of a car and the power of a truck.

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  Fast,Fast,Fast...... - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By cybergypsy - July 15 - 2:00 am

  I love this car so much have had the 350Z and other sports cars...but the style is amazing on this car..much nicer then my BMWs. Its fast and sleek....and its a 4 seater...only draw back is gas.... it eats it like a vette..

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  Love My Mazda 6 - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By xenanut - July 15 - 2:00 am

  I have nothing but praise about my mazda 6. Its a great looking car and is really fun to drive. You get alot for the price. An excellent value.

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  Best SUV - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By Zoom Zoom - July 14 - 3:50 am

  This is really nice vehicle. I drove it for the last 2 months and I love it. It has road presence and distinct design. Mazda did a good job in designing this SUV. Finally, there is an SUV which does not look like it was designed in 1945. The price counts too. Navigation systems, rear camera, keyless entry feature, power lift gate, rain sensor made this car absolute fun to drive and to own. If you can spend few more dollars on extra options it is definitely worth it.

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  Engine pinging - 1999 Mazda Protege
  By Mili - July 13 - 10:00 am

  Good car overall, but I have been disappointed with the engine pinging, dealer replace MAF sensor and did not fixed it, I have to switch to high octane gas 89 or better and that took care of the pinging also the steering wheel is not sharp on center.

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  Most Fun for the Money - 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By marshal1 - July 13 - 10:00 am

  The MX-5 is fun, fast, relaible and economical. Its also the best handling car Ive ever driven. It reminds me of my 1969 Triumph GT-6, except I dont have to worry about it not starting after a rain storm. The bottom line is that the Miata = Fun!!

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  One good car - 2002 Mazda Protege5
  By musicman - July 13 - 10:00 am

  This is one fun to drive car. It handles very well and looks great. Its very good on gas and has shown to be very capable of handling a wide veriity of loads. I used to drive a Honda Civic Si and this is more of a family car. The Honda was a great car, but so far the Mazda has proved to be more useful and as reliable.