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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  cnt wait for summmmmer - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By jenjen123 - November 8 - 7:17 pm

  I always loved my car but terrible terrible in the snow. Dont feel safe at all with even an inch on the ground. Slides all over n gets stuck constantly with barley nothing on the ground. Last winter spun out of control going barley 20mph almost totaling my car n this winter its been one aggravation after another. Any time i see even the slightest bit of snow fall i hope i have no where to go because i never felt so unsafe in any car. Think its time to trade in for a truck :(

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  Best minivan for small families! - 2004 Mazda MPV
  By slw1123 - November 8 - 1:36 pm

  My husband and I just purchased a used 2004 MPV with 18k miles on it. We have a 15 month old and are expecting another baby soon. The MPV has lots of space without being too boxy or too large. Its easy to get a toddler in/out of carseats in the 2nd row. It would be nice to have a tad more leg room/space between the front and 2nd row but its fine for kids. I love the cargo space and the "lay flat" 3 row seat. I also like the steering wheel radio controls and the center console that can be up or down. The handling of the MPV is awesome! Feels like youre driving a luxury car instead of a minivan. It turns smoothly and easily, accelerates beautifully (but Im a conservative Mommy).

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  What a find! - 2005 Mazda Tribute
  By Dan - November 8 - 1:23 am

  I recently purchased a 2005 Mazda Tirbute 4wd, 6cyl and have been very pleased. I took it on a long journey and it exceeded my expectations for handling, comfort, and performance. I owned a Buick Century and was used to geting 30 miles per gallon on the highway. With this SUV the mileage on the highway is about 22 and around town 18. That is the only drawback to this vehicle. It is fun to drive, loaded with safety options such side and front air bags, ABS standard brakes, all wheel drive and much more that makes it a real asset for your driving pleasure. After researching and researching compact SUVS for months, I am glad I purchased the Mazda Tribute. I think you will enjoy this vehicle

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  Sporty and Fun - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By Mark - November 7 - 8:36 pm

  I traded in a VW Beetle, so there isnt much comparison except from the test drives I have been on. We considered a Pathfinder, Pilot and the Highlander. The Pilot was too much like a car and not very responsive. The Highlander was too pricey for the amount of vehicle. The Pathfinder felt really bulky in comparison to the CX-9. I drive about 4 hours every weekend with my wife and great dane. We wanted a vehicle that would allow us to have room for children in the back along with our dog. The gas mileage isnt too impressive, but a vehicle this size just doesnt have that 30 mpg ability right now. The backup cam on the nav screen seems dangerous.

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  Great van for the money - 2000 Mazda MPV
  By john u - November 7 - 11:00 am

  Bought the van almost 8 years ago and have had only a few issues. Alternator need replacement. Rear hatch struts failed and coolant lines to rear leaked but both were recall items (sure hurt when the hatch slammed onto my head and knocked me to the ground). Ive got 165,000 kms on it now and it is rusting like crazy...that is my only real complaint other than the not so great gas mileage and the fact that the van is so boring.

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  Zoomarific - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Geist - November 7 - 1:13 am

  Great car, good value, and excellent handling.

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  Awesome!!! - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Paulino - November 6 - 8:46 am

  I have to say Im blown away at how perfect this car is. You want interior space?? you got it. You want power? this car has a lot of muscle!!! you want safety?? 5 star rating all around!!! The mazda6 is elegant looking but handles like a sports car. Gas mileage is better than what the advertisement says. I get 21 in the city, 29 in the highway.

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  great car - 1999 Mazda Protege
  By pro-fan - November 6 - 2:00 am

  What a great vehicle. Bought car in May 1999. Now have 134,000 miles. Car driven daily in Phila. and New Jersey. Only problems both rear door locks failed (Have not had fixed) and catalytic converter failed (under warranty).Also OEM tires are 195/55/15. These are expensive to replace recommend switching to much cheaper 195/60/15 size.

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  AOK by me - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By teleskier - November 6 - 2:00 am

  Ive only had the Trib for 3 months, but so far Ive enjoyed my purchase. My biggest concern was performance in snow, as I live in a mountainous region and like to ski. The Trib has done fine driving through snow storms and up snowy mountain roads. It also holds all my gear with out a problem. I like the power it has to go up Mountain passes and to cruise on the highway. The roof rack could be a little higher as the clamps for Thule ski rack I put on dont have enough clearance off the roof. The gas milage is disappointing, Ive been averaging 18-19 mpg with a combination of highway and city driving. R

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  zoom zoom - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jcmansor - November 4 - 8:30 pm

  This car rocks! Worth every cent.