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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  LOVE this car!! - 2012 Mazda Mazda3
  By kachok - November 2 - 3:05 am

  I got my Mazda 3 hatchback a few days ago and I absolutely love it! Crazy good mpg in town and on the highway (52.9mpg@55mph and 44.0mpg @70mph) all the power I ever wanted, fantastic handling and plenty of room for me and all my gear. I work at another brand dealership, and am willing to deal with the ridicule of my boss and co-workers to drive my 3, it is the perfect car for me. I drive all kinds of cars every day, and the Jetta/Civic/Corolla/Elantra just dont stack up. Only the Focus SE and Dart Ralley compare, the Dart is not offered in a hatch and I have had bad luck with Fords so it was an easy choice for me.

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  Great car! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By kellybrf - November 1 - 2:00 am

  I been brougut up around the finest of cars, but even among those the RX-8 stands out. The unique design is the first thing that jumps out at you, but what really matters is the quality of the drive, and the RX-8 does not disappoint. This replaced my WRX and 83 Supra- both phenomenal everyday cars- and I have not been disappointed. Obviously the handling is not as sure as the WRX in adverse conditions (actually, the Supra was better in the snow,) but on dry pavement the RX-8 corners just as well as my dads M3. The only real drawback is the mileage. Its listed at 17/24, but Ive gotten as little as 14 highway, with the average around 15.5.

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  If youre tired of Hondas Get the Mazda3 - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By barrettdp - November 1 - 2:00 am

  Just bought it!! I love the way it handles. Has great get up and go! Interior is awesome! If you are tired of seeing the same old Honda on the street...this is the car for you! I love Mazdas so I may be a bit impartial. I would give it a nine out of ten on an overall scale.

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  Mazdas Fusion Fighter! - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By harrison310 - October 31 - 3:33 pm

  Looking to replace my 2010 Fusion, I was *this* close to choosing the redesigned 2013 Fusion, but luckily waited a couple weeks for the new Mazda 6 to arrive. The 6 has a much more driver-oriented dash than the Fusion. MyFords touch screen is simply hideous, while my 6s Technology package includes the Command Knob which is like the BMW iDrive. The 6s Skyactive engine delivers plenty of power without the added complication of Ford turbocharged engines (already 4 recalls!). While both 6 and Fusion are beautifully styled, I think the 6s high end Jag-like looks will wear better.

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  Pleased with my Mazda SUV - 2001 Mazda Tribute
  By Irina - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Very reliable, sporty for an suv, fun and most importantly feeling of security while driving.

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  Fun car Zoom-Zoom - 2007 Mazda CX-7
  By solidhit - October 31 - 1:21 am

  Traded in my 03 Expedition for the CX 7. I was impressed with the zippy handling and overall performance of the CX. I was looking at several cross overs and smaller SUVs but the Touring edition had what I was looking for. I was surprised at the way the turbo 4 cyl handled with 4 people. I was expecting it to bog down with the extra weight but it certainly didnt. It has the room for everything I need it for including the towing package I needed for a small trailer and a future boat. Gas mileage from my first tank full was a respectful 17.5. I expect that to increase since I didnt drive very conservatively, wanting to see what she would do on different road types.

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  Great so far - 2010 Mazda Tribute
  By hmiwb - October 31 - 12:26 am

  Bought this car about a month ago. Great experience so far with no defects or adjustments needed. The six speed automatic has been very user friendly and the fuel economy has been surprisingly good. Around town its okay, but on the highway I can easily get in the low 30s with little difficulty. Great for such a boxy shape.

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  Tokyo Mini Van - 2006 Mazda Mazda5
  By TanoishiManji - October 29 - 3:23 pm

  An absolute home run by Mazda! Finally a Japanese style "city minivan" has come to the world. This is the perfect minivan to have in Honolulu, or any other major city where space is an issue. It does not compromise on interior space at all, except in the third row seats, which would be ample for young children. A pleasure to drive, with surprising power for a 4 banger, smooth shifting automatic, & ride to match. Tons of carefully thought out details, like under seat storage, table/cooler holder, seats that fold flat with ease, logical controls, courtesy lights, slider doors that make entry easy for your back seaters etc. I drive a S500 as my other car, and I look forward to driving my 5!

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  Mazda Fun - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Tim - October 27 - 2:56 pm

  I researched and test drove all competitive models before making my purchase. As soon as I drove the new Mazda6, I knew it was the one. The mix of power, sport, comfort, and styling is unmatched in the class. I drive a lot of miles per year and have already racked up 6K miles. I have been getting about 28 MPG on average, with a lot of those miles spent at 80 MPH on the interstate. My only complaint so far is the transmission. It seems to shift lazily at times, especially during 1-2-3 transition, and when coming to a stop you can actually feel the trans downshift. But overall, I have been very pleased with the car.

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  Best All around - 2004 Mazda MPV
  By Mandi - October 27 - 10:00 am

  The MPV is a great value for mini-van. I wanted something that wasnt big and bulky and drove like a car yet had the seating capacity of a van. I found just that in the MPV. Each day I drive it I like it even more/