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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  Best of Both Worlds - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By phillyflyer - December 3 - 10:00 am

  So, how do you guarantee a smile from two adults and a 4-year old on a daily basis? Well a simple high-spirited ride in the 8 will do the trick. For those of us that miss our FDs and are sick and tired of the generic "family offerings" in the high 20s-low 30s price range. This car will do the trick. Safe, comfortable, stylish, and FUN. Now, Im not saying to turn the DSC/TCS off with the kids in the car or take it out to your local AutoX event with the family buckeled in, but everyday driving has certainly become a treat again. mundane tasks such as grocery runs now become the property of the 8, much to the joy of my 4 year old.

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  A brilliant drive. - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By djvolvo - December 3 - 10:00 am

  Love this car so far! Styling is exquisite, handling is superb. The youthful interior styling, while initially skeptical, has proved to be very well laid out. Only problems are with the glovebox, which doesnt always shut well. Engine could use a little more pull at certain RPMs. Overall, this is an exceptional vehicle. Its solid as a rock. You will not be disappointed.

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  Great Little Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By gadb2000 - December 3 - 10:00 am

  Great car, Im very Happy with it. The only issue I have is sub-par mileage, I average around 26 mpg on the highway, was expecting more. Besides that, overall Im totally satisfied with this vehicle.

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  Great Job Mazda - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Jan B. - December 3 - 10:00 am

  In the search for a new car, I was looking for something unique in the automitive world. I found that with my Mazda 6. Its surprisingly powerful for a 4-cylinder. The interior and exterior are both very attractive designs. I really love my new Mazda. It hugs the road, and in the rain I feel safe driving. If you want a car that will turn heads, and accelerate faster than every other 4-cylinder after the red light turns green, get this car.

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  Great value - 2008 Mazda Mazda6
  By Byron Holt - December 2 - 6:16 pm

  I love my car. It has almost all of the options I wanted in a car. I like the appearance of the car far more than the new 09 Mazda 6, even thought it is a bit more powerful. I chose this car over the Camry, Altima, Accord and a few other midsize sedans.

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  Better than our Accord - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By dbinIA - November 30 - 9:50 am

  We just picked up the 09 6 GT to replace a leased Ford; all around, its better/more fun to drive than our 08 Accord. A quieter ride, more surefooted feel, nice build quality, great looks/lighting, etc. Love the Bluetooth and BMS, along with the advanced keyless system. Very satisfied.

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  smart choice - 2002 Mazda Millenia
  By ginger27 - November 30 - 2:00 am

  This is the third mazda I have owned. I purchased my brand new millenia for 20000 about two weeks ago. This is considerably less than a new maxima, which was my first choice. I could not be more satisfied with my purchase. The car has every luxury feature you could want.

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  MY FAVORITE CAR - 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By MIATADOC - November 30 - 2:00 am

  Wonderful car, very few problems, drives and rides exceptionally well for a sports car, especially one with 45 series tires. New VVT helps with power delivery.

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  I like it - 2002 Mazda MPV
  By 2002maazda mpv ex - November 30 - 12:26 am

  I like the handling, acceleration, and comfort of my Mazda van.

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  Best in the bunch - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Richard Casserly - November 29 - 7:30 am

  I have enjoyed this car from the day I first drove it at the dealership as a test drive. My first Mazda was the Protégé 5 which was a practical and inexpensive spacious car. Mazda has not lost that theme with the 3 but has risen the bar in this category.