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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  First 3,000 miles, all is good - 2017 Mazda CX-5
  By Don - March 21 - 4:25 am

  I compared this SUV verses the Honda CRV top two rated vehicles. Both are great SUVs I choose the CX5 for its styling, particular the front nose, and the great handling (feel behind the wheel). The interior of the CX5 compares with that of far more expensive vehicles. I have the Gt model with heads-up display, all the adaptive safety features and forward display perform exceptionally well. Safety and ease of vehicle entry is the emphasis for us seniors. I have received many compliments on the CX5 candy apple red color.

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  2nd To NONE - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By 2rx8 - March 19 - 10:00 am

  My first RX8 was totaled in an accident (hit by red light run side driver door impact). Fire/EMT said side airbag saved serious head injury if not my life. When seeking replacement car I didnt hesitate to get another RX8. Ive not been disappointed in the past 6 years and dont want to part with my RX8. Previously had RX7 and had problems with restart on cold engine, but never with my 2005. The only thing Ive had to replace is the battery and tires. Love this car! And I have a Viper so I have real comparative performance. Not that the RX8 is anywhere near a Viper, but when I dont drive the Viper I dont at all mind my RX8.

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  Cheap Thrills - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Agent Smith - March 19 - 10:00 am

  This is a terrific car. Outstanding chassis and suspension and tight steering lead to amazing handling and stability. The ride is firm but not harsh. The 2.3L 4 cyl runs strong. I love the 5 sp auto-stick. In 2nd and 3rd gears it pulls like crazy, maxing out the torque. For a small car, it feels very solid on the interstate at speed. Disappointments include gas mileage in city @ 20 mpg; original tires wore out at 20,000 mi; and I just replaced the rotors at 25,000 mi. re: rotors, ironically, the pads were fine. Otherwise zero issues. I would buy another one in a heartbeat.

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  First Mazda - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By BBK - March 18 - 3:06 pm

  I had to buy a new car. Weve purchased Hondas since 1980. A lot of bang for the buck compared w/ a Civic. Solid build quality. Great drive experience. More standard features than Civic. Bigger engine.

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  This car compelled me to write a review - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By cyberathlete - March 17 - 5:15 pm

  I hardly write reviews. Of all the opinions I have for everything I buy (good or bad), I never voice them. This car changed that. Tested many cars in this range new and used: VW CC, 2013 Accord, Camry, BMW 3 Series, Audi A4 I chose this because of the combination of looks, performance, comfort, economy and tech features that it offers. My friends were extremely skeptical about this Mazda 6. No one I know owns a Mazda (family or friends). Theyd never seen the 2014 model but when I let them all take it for a test drive all their concerns and premature snarky remarks were laid to rest. They all commented on how amazing it looks (inside and out) and how smooth/quick the drive was.

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  I LOVE THIS CAR - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By MIALT - March 17 - 9:30 am

  I spent a long time looking at cars and this is the best bet for the money. I live in New England and have no problems in snow, mud, or rain. The traction control works wonders. The features of the grand touring have everything I need. It handles like a charm and I find I get about 26 mpg with both highway and city driving. The manual is a blast, the stereo is phenomenal. There is a bit of cabin noise when your on the highway but I usually have the radio up. Overall, I have had no problems with this car and plan to keep it for a long time.

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  This car Rocks - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By TBM - March 15 - 11:40 pm

  Being an exclusive Mazda driver for the past 15 years, I have driven Proteges, 626s and Tributes. This model by far has the most bang for the buck. Luxurious interior, adequate power, 17 " WHEELS, sleek refined body, wide Euro footprin - this car is a charmer. If you compare the BMW 1 series in styling and body characteristics you will see many similarities. An awesome car for the money!

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  First one in South Florida - 2011 Mazda Mazda2
  By DJ - March 15 - 11:20 pm

  I just purchased the car tonight at a dealer that just to delivery of them on Saturday. I purchased it for my wife, she loves the look and color. We bought the green one. It is so sporty and nimble she loves to drive it and I love the way it makes her feel. So far so good. I would recommend the car to anyone who just wants to have fun while you drive. It puts a smile on our faces.

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  Very impressed with this CX-5 - 2014 Mazda CX-5
  By ron277 - March 15 - 10:38 pm

  I have driven the CX5 for just a week now and I am impressed at the power in the 2.5 liter 4 cylinder engine. Great pickup and can do anything I ask it to do on the road. Ride is firm but comfortable, the steering is responsive, the 9 speaker Bose system sounds great and it much better than on my old Mazda 626 ES. The mileage so far as I have recorded is hanging around 28 MPG. Wonderful. The rear camera and the BSM system are all frosting on the cake. I purchase additional warranty to 84 mo/100,000 miles , beyond Mazdas 36 mo/36,000 mile

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  Didnt think I would like a family van - 2003 Mazda MPV
  By James Hamilton - March 15 - 1:56 pm

  With two kids we made the jump to a van. I spent a long time researching choices and opted for the Mazda MPV. Except for the transmission fix which we got corrected without any problem, we have been extremely pleased on a day to day basis with the ease of use, functionality and sportiness of the vehicle. Over a year and 20,000 miles later I have not had a single regret.