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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  Fun, Freakin Awesome Sports Car! - 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By 3rd Wright Brother - June 19 - 11:53 am

  When I searched for a new car I wanted a convertible. I researched all the different models and within a week I ordered a Mazda Miata. It was the best convertible available and exactly what I was looking for. It had power, great handling, style, and I loved how easy it was to put the top down. It takes me less than three seconds to put the top down or put it back up. A lot of other convertibles on the market required two people to lower or raise the top. I have driven my Miata to so many places, but driving through the Rockies was my favorite. The small back road to Aspen was the most breathtaking journey ever and the Miata was a joy to drive.

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  Mazda RX8 - 2009 Mazda RX-8
  By TicoRico - June 18 - 4:10 pm

  I have to say this is my first RX8 I have ever owned/driven. I love the car, it feels, sounds and drives so well. It has a very smooth engine. I agree with other sites that the car doesnt have a lot of torque, but it picks up very well. The car is designed to handle, not for pure brute speed. 4 door 4 seater sports car, very sleek looking. I couldnt have gotten anything better for my first sports car at this price range. My advise to anyone interested in the car, test drive it. Actions speak louder than words.

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  Excellent SUV - 2005 Mazda Tribute
  By dodgedude - June 18 - 1:23 pm

  This is an awesome SUV! Lots of interior room, cargo area folds flat (with the rear headrests removed), handles very nicely, tons of value for the money. I only have 1000 miles on it so far, but its incredibly fun to drive, handles like a car too, especially on turns. Others have complained about wind noise - bah! Ive had this up to 85 mph, very quiet inside, quieter than most of the cars Ive had.

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  Mazda CX-9 GT is performer & stylish - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By pmb - June 18 - 11:36 am

  First of all, this is a great vehicle for the price paid. It offers a lot when compared to premium vehicles. Bluetooth, moonroof, Sirius, blind spot monitoring, 20 inch wheels, heated leather seats, innovative styling, beautiful gauges, back up camera, auto. rear hatch, auto dimming mirrors, tire pressure monitoring, 0% financing and more. Best of all it is fun to drive and has good cargo capacity and can be made better by adding more driver storage bins or compartments. Gas mileage can be better but I average 21.5 city/hwy. combined. Driven 7000+ miles w/o any issues. I recommend this over Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia, Chevy Traverse, Kia and Hyundai. Indeed a Great buy!

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  very good car for small family - 2008 Mazda Mazda5
  By dandepriest - June 18 - 7:35 am

  To be honest, at my age, I kind of miss the roominess and lush comfort of the Chrysler Town and Country we once had. But for value, fuel economy, utility, and reliability I cant say Ive ever owned or even known of a better car than our Mazda 5 Grand Touring van. Weve put 50K miles on it over two years. A lot of long trips. Its a bit compact for a van but it does seat six comfortably, although two adults in the rear-most bench seat would eventually feel a bit cramped on a long trip. And with six people on an over-night trip there wont be much room for luggage so pack light. The manual indicates that the Mazda 5 is not designed for towing and that it should never be used for that. Howeve

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  Pleasant Surprise - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Curtis789 - June 18 - 1:13 am

  This is my first Japanese car. I am pleasantly surprised with the performance of this 4-cyl sedan. The 5-speed tranny is the best designed auto Ive ever owned, getting the most out of the available power. For city or mixed use, get the 4-cyl. Full load or 100% highway, you may want to consider the 6-cyl. I did not drive the 6 speed auto tranny. Excellent design and build quality. Im a small guy and Im still searching around for the seat position that will match the comfort of my old Chrysler 300M, but the support is better in the Mazda. In many circumstances, the Mazda is faster, e.g., starting from red lights.

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  Another Zoom-Zoom - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By Dr. J. - June 17 - 3:20 am

  Bought this car when we gave my wifes 2002 Protege 5 to my granddaughter. My wife loved the 2002, so it was natural to stay with Mazda. The car is extremely fun to drive, and the few times weve had it on the highway, we averaged over 33 miles to the gallon. Weve had absolutely no problems whatsoever. In fact, I traded a 2006 Toyota Prius for a 2009 Grand Touring I.

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  Positive comments all around. - 2001 Mazda Millenia
  By Bronson - June 16 - 7:16 pm

  Its a shame Mazda stopped building the Millenia. I bought mine used and have put nearly 130,000 miles on it. It has given me no problems at all other than a Check Engine light that seems to think theres a problem. The drive is very satisfying; think of the Millenia as a big Miata. The ride is smooth and quiet and it is generally a very comfortable car. The interior is classy and it comes without the gimmicks of high-end technology. Storage space is good with enough cup holders for everybody and a wide trunk. A folding rear seat would be nice. Mazda did not put enough effort into marketing the Millenia and giving it a competitive price tag. I think it would have been a very successful car.

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  Used CX-9 for family - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By Boogs SUV - June 16 - 3:13 pm

  I bought this vehicle because my wife and I need a bigger car. I had a Toyota Matrix but with a car seat in the back made for a tight fit along with the stroller. We have had this suv for about 3 weeks now and love it. We have no complaints except for gas mileage. But cant do anything about that its an SUV not a four cylinder. Also big BLIND SPOTS but fixed it with buying a wide rear view mirror.

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  This car is amazing - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jennifer - June 16 - 2:20 pm

  I bought my brand new mazda 3 a week ago. So far the car has been amazing. Its such a smooth ride and very sporty. I do suggest putting leather into the car. I did, and it was well worth it.