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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  Amazing 3 - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Rays 3s - March 17 - 7:00 am

  My Mazda 3s feels like a BMW in all aspects except price. It fits like a glove, and handles like a slot car on a track. I placed my order after one test drive, and waited 4 months for delivery, but it was worth the wait. Buy one, you will not be disappointed.

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  Everything You Need - 2008 Mazda Mazda5
  By jonjae - March 17 - 4:13 am

  I cant think of another vehicle with this much functionality AND good gas mileage. You might get more room from a full size minivan, but you also will only get 16-17 mpg in the city. I have received 23-25 mpg in the city and 28 highway. I bought this car used after I had a chance to rent one. The third row is small but is just fine for your kids. I have sat back there and wouldnt mind sitting there for around town outings. Its just nice to have the option to transport up to six people occasionally. I owned a 2002 Protege which was a litte unrefined regarding road noise. This is no Lexus but definitely is improved and more than satisfactory, even on the highway.

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  CX-9 2007 San Antonio - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By CX-9 GT San Antonio - March 17 - 3:53 am

  Our CX-9 Grand Touring, is fun to drive. We love the headlights (wide range lighting) because it allows us to see everything and the interior lighting (especially the blue interior light in the dashboard)is a plus. We enjoy the navigation, satellite radio, touch screen, blue tooth, heated leather seats and comfort. We drove it to Yellowstone National Park, through the Rockies in Colorado and it was a smooth comfortable ride. We can fold down the seats for storage space in seconds to carry supplies and my daughter’s belongings to her dorm in Austin. I drive it to work and use my rear view camera to park. It rides on rails. We love the safety features and so does our insurance company

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  Great Car - 2005 Mazda Tribute
  By John - March 16 - 11:50 am

  I narrowed my choice to the Tribute/Escape, Forester, and CR-V after deciding to trade my Honda Accord. I chose the Tribute on the basis of handling, interior room, style, and value. The Forester had less rear seat room and I didnt like the door mounted spare on the CR-V. Also, both were more expensive after the available rebates and incentives. It is a comfortable car to drive and I liked the feature set on the "i" including the standard 16 inch wheels. My only options were cruise control, heavy duty floor mats, and the rear bumper step.

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  All Around Winner - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By SupportTech - March 16 - 10:10 am

  Nearly 3 years and 38000 miles later this car still puts a smile on my face every time I get behind the wheel. You simply wont find a better balance of economy and performance in its class. Interior fit and finish have been excellent with the only beef being a floormat that has worn out already. Manual Tranny and brakes are top notch in operation and feel. Worst mileage: 26 mpg. Best Mileage: 33 mpg Suspension may be a little rough for the sensitive, but the dividends pay off in the handling department. If you want a plush cruiser this is not the car for you. This vehicle is built for those who like to be involved and take pleasure in the driving experience.

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  Spiders may Block Fuel Tank Vent Line - 2011 Mazda CX-7
  By stantonb1 - March 16 - 2:18 am

  Attention MAZDA / 2010-2012 owners Mazda North America Operations has issued a NHTSA Campaign ID Number: 14V114 stating that yes "Spiders may Block Fuel Tank Vent Line". I only have 13,000 miles on my CX-7 GT and believe me Mazda should be addressing the Turbo problem, AC problem and braking problem. Spiders, give me a break. As I said in my prior comment bought a 2013 Honda CR-V base am very pleased with it and just ordered a 2014 Honda CR-V EXL. I still love the styling of my CX-7, but that is about all. Drove CX-5 and extremely disappointed.

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  Driving is now FUN! - 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By MyIndy - March 16 - 1:00 am

  I just got my MX-5 on Monday (9.28.15) and I am just ecstatic about it. For the money, it just cant be beat. I got the Club edition mainly because it was available (very hard to find one at all in my area) but the Ceramic color, black side mirrors, and spoilers and gray wheels was the kicker for me. Sure the ride is a little bumpier but it will be "bomb" on track days. There are a few things I would change on the next model, like a flat bottom steering wheel (which you can buy an aftermarket one) and padding for your right knee against the the console, the CX-5 has it. The car can go, as in fast. I cant believe what they did under the hood. It is really a blast! But what this car does best...is going around corners...it can handle anything. I am 63" and 215 and I still fit like a glove. I dont think anyone bigger can get in or out. I seats (with red stitching) are very comfortable also. I got them adjusted all the way back and feels great. I am getting 27.5 mpg right now around the city and of course showing it off, Im hitting the pedal...a lot. As of March 2016, I am getting over 35mpg on the hwy., using premium gas and I have gotten as much as 38mpg. 5000 mile update: I had my first oil change, I went with synthetic oil since that is what came with the vehicle, I think this is the way to go in the long run. I am getting so many looks and people coming up to the car and saying how much they like it. I never had that happen to me before. I think I have something special. I just love it. Zoom Zoom!

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  MAZDA B3000 CAB PLUS DUAL SPORT - 2003 Mazda Truck
  By SPECTER - March 15 - 2:00 am

  THIS BEING THE 2ND MAZDA TRUCK I,VE OWNED I AM STILL IMPRESSED WITH THE OVER ALL QUALITY & WORKMANSHIP OF THIS TRUCK.THE ONLY DOWN FALL I CAN FIND IS MAZDA/FORD REALLY NEEDS TO ENTER THE SPORT TRUCK MARKET WITH A TRUCK THAT IS LESS 4X4ISH .THEY NEED TO BUILD A TRUE SPORT TRUCK AND GIVE CHEVY AND DODGE A RUN FOR THE MONEY. HECK EVEN TOYOTAS GETTING WITH THE PROGRAM.

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  A great Minvan - 2003 Mazda MPV
  By mjhenny - March 15 - 2:00 am

  We owned a Chrysler T&C LX (2000) before buying this 03 Mazda MPV. The Chrysler was a POS, and time will tell with the Mazda, but it seems like a great decision to purchase this. The Mazda really does drive more like a car than a van - so much better acceleration, brakes, handling, and steering than the Chrysler- very solid and impressive. The backseat is not meant for adults to sit in for long (not enough leg support), but it is great for kids, and folds into the floor. The middle seats slide together or stay apart as quads. Its worth the test drive - I didnt think wed have a chance of buying it, but looking at it and an driving convinced me.

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  The best one for our $$$ - 2003 Mazda MPV
  By mpvowner2 - March 15 - 2:00 am

  This is our first Mini Van. Really worth for the money paid. We looked at Honda and Toyota but let go becos of the pricing and availablity. So far this van is fun to drive