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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  Awesome car - 2016 Mazda CX-3
  By Dave Goldfarb - November 17 - 9:32 am

  Got the GT. So much faster than I was expecting from a 2.0L. Love it so far

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  A True "Minivan" thats fun to drive - 2005 Mazda MPV
  By cope1 - November 16 - 6:50 pm

  We bought the MPV because of its smaller size and firm ride. It handles almost like our 2002 Camry and is just as easy to park. The build quality is the best I have had in many years; even better than our 2002 Camry. Fit & finish are excellent. I would always like more power; but remembering the old 4 cylinder. minivans, the MPV has plenty. The MPVs acceleration seems to be on a par with my heavier 1999 Explorer V8. Braking is very good. Admittedly its not as large as most of its competitors; but larger isnt always better.

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  Still Trying To Decide - 2017 Mazda CX-5
  By Joe N. - November 16 - 1:42 pm

  I test drove the CX-5 Grand Touring along with others in this class and price point. Ive narrowed my choices down to the CX-5 Grand Touring and the Hyundai Tuscon Limited. Love the sleek look of the CX-5 inside and out. Some features missing that Hyundai offers are panoramic moonroof, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats and Apple Car Play (though Mazda says Apple Car Play is coming). I love the look and the driving feel of the CX-5 over the Tuscon but I love those added comfort and convenience features that the Tuscon offers over the CX-5. Still waiting to see which car maker if either can fill in the gap between the two first. Will wait to see what comes from both in 2018 and 2019.

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  My Best Choice Yet - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By crzygosu87 - November 16 - 10:30 am

  Well, I was once stuck between a TSX and Mazda 6, however, I went with the Mazda6 considering its aggressive exterior and unique interior modeling, including its much lower price tag. Plus, it was a V6 as opposed to Acuras "weeny" I-4. Thats all I have to say. :=) Plus there were way too many TSXs on the streets. If it wasnt for this last detail, I might safely say my dad would have wanted me to get the TSX. Nevertheless, in general, I wanted a more manly car and here I am today.

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  great - 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By angel Kania - November 15 - 10:00 am

  I love My MIata!

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  Zoomie - 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Kathys Zoom Zoom - November 15 - 10:00 am

  Great fun to drive!

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  sweet car - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By anoymous - November 15 - 10:00 am

  Get the manual because it has more power than the automatic although it is more expensive. The hadling is beautiful and is roomy in the front of the car, but the back can get a little cowded if you are taller than six feet.

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  2004 Mazda RX8=problems,problems,problem - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By boxermom - November 15 - 10:00 am

  owned car 2 weeks, 642 mi. had to replace motor. 2 weeks later had to replace latch on fuse box (broken). 6 mo. later had to replace air conditioning unit after being repaird once. 1 month later had to replace broken driver side sun visor. This car has been in the dealership garage more than it has been in my own. Would not recommend this auto to anyone looking for a dependable sports car.

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  Love my Tribute - 2005 Mazda Tribute
  By Benne - November 15 - 10:00 am

  Just bought in June of 2004. LOVE my tribute. Great ride, plenty of room and EXCELLENT gas milage compared to previously owned jeep cherokee.

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  the wierd sound issue after 1700 miles on it - 2012 Mazda Mazda3
  By jangk - November 15 - 8:29 am

  2 weeks ago, I directly emailed to Mazda company with the problem. Then, the issue was transferred to the representative of the dearlership in which I bought, so they was informed by me that issue, and they drove the car with me, but they just explained that " problem is because of new SkyActive transmission, so we cannot sovle the problem fundamentally because the wierd sound is part of manufacture." So with disappointment, I returned to my home.... ....I live Philadelphia suburban area, which means I live in a little bit cold area, but the wierd sound is not related to the cold weather.........