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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  My Mazda hasnt disappointed - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Cheryl - July 17 - 9:43 pm

  I was really apprehensive about trading in my trouble-free manual Camry, but I couldnt be happier with the Mazda 3 Hatchback. Its a blast to drive, the seats are comfy, and Im pleasantly surprised with the gas mileage. I have a smile on my face every time I get in the car!

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  Zoom - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By J.W. - July 17 - 9:46 am

  With 10 days (700 miles) of ownership of my first new car I am very pleased. 2 tanks of fuel averaging 27 MPG (70% highway, slightly aggressive driving) so far (manual transmission). Solid car with great git-up. I love how the car handles. Some types of road, amazingly quiet, other types lots of road noise. Compared most all other compacts, this was the best all around car we liked. Other cars had things that stood out, but nothing had as good of a package like this 3 did. Great handling with decent ride. I love this car so far.

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  New to Vans - 2003 Mazda MPV
  By jef2one - July 16 - 2:00 am

  Traded an ailing Buick LeSabre on an 03 LX. Overall my wife and I enjoy it and are very pleased with the purchase.

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  Excellent Car in its Class - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Bryan - July 14 - 11:03 pm

  I purchased a 2006 Mazda3 after looking at all of its competitors in its class. For the money I paid, I really feel like I got a steal. This is a fun car to drive and it looks and feels like I paid a lot more than I did. I highly recommend this car to anyone looking for a great car at a great price.

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  I love this car! - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Angie - July 14 - 5:03 am

  I went from an 09 Subaru Legacy to this. I could not believe the difference in handling. Such a minuscule amount of body roll. Such great grip on the road. This car is amazing. And to top it off, it has such a great look! This car deserves the giant smile on the front. I would smile all the time too if I was this car. And I smile when I drive it. Im so happy I got it. Beautiful inside and out. If you prefer the slushy drive of your basic economy car, then this car is not for you. For true driving enthusiasts that also want something practical for everyday driving.

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  best hatchback for $20k period! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By logan42 - July 12 - 11:46 am

  Beats the stuffing out of the Focus, GTI, Matrix, PT Cruiser, Hyundia, Kia, you name it! I never thought Id be able to own a car this nice for under $30,000.

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  Five on the Floor - 2006 Mazda Tribute
  By Tributetotribute - July 12 - 8:00 am

  Just traded in a 99 Explorer on this little SUV. So far so good. Its 4 cylinder, five speed is very peppy. We have 2WD which is all most people need. Love the mpg. We added leather and moonroof to class it up a bit.

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  The MPV works well with our family - 2004 Mazda MPV
  By tmra2ree - July 11 - 2:00 am

  We bought our MPV to replace a 1994 Toyota Camry 7 passenger wagon. The MPV has been superior in every respect: comfort, handling, fuel economy, ease of ingress/egress, fun factor, etc. Our average mileage is 20-21 mpg in combination city/highway driving. So far, after nearly 15000 miles, the only visits to the dealership have been for scheduled maintenance.

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  Most fun to drive! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Oneputt - July 11 - 2:00 am

  This is the most fun car to drive that I have owned. Love to hear the rotary engine...great to the ear...makes you want to drive everywhere and never get out. Super handling and very comfortable. Overall, no car can touch it. 350z is a rough ride and has tire problems, boxster too expensive, s2000 comes close but noisier and no back seat.

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  bad to the bone - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By modoom - July 11 - 2:00 am

  from start to finsh no one can tuoch it. makes me feel like Im on top of the wrold