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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  For the money - cant be beat! - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By Joe - September 30 - 1:13 am

  This is truly a SPORT wagon - handling is truly out of its league and inspires confidence in any driving condition. Throwing it around turns and on-ramps brings a smile to my face every time. Exterior design is fantastic. The fit and finish feels more European with tightly sealing doors, good interior plastics and only 1 rattle - license plate holder (thick insulation tape fixed that). Stereo is more than adequate for a stock system. The fan selector switch malfunctioned but was replaced promptly under warranty. Front fog lights do an excellent job of lighting your way and give the car a rally-like appearance. For the money, the P5 is unrivaled in every way!

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  Zoom-Zoom - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Wayne Ferguson - September 29 - 8:00 pm

  This is a very good looking car which is very comfortable for long trips. Rented a Mazda6 earlier this year and loved it. Now I own one.

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  Built like a tank - 2015 Mazda CX-9
  By jjwjr - September 29 - 4:25 am

  Before purchasing I tried a few other SUVs, none matched the handling characteristics of the Mazda. The vehicle feels planted on the highway during the worst weather conditions. At first the firm ride was a concern but it isnt meant to be a Town car. A firm ride is the trade off enabling the vehicle to perform more like a passenger car. No doubt youre aware of its size when behind the wheel but it drives like a smaller vehicle.

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  Falling Apart - 1999 Mazda 626
  By ann - September 29 - 2:30 am

  My 626 was my first vehicle. This was a great started car, very reliable. However, as soon as it neared 80,000 miles things started snowballing. I had belt problems causing acceleration problems, to the point that it was unsafe to drive. This was a minor repair compared to the transmission I had to replace at 95,000 miles. It was running smoothly then just gave out one day. I was told by a local mechanic this is a very common issue. Mine was the third 99 Mazda 626 the shop had seen this year for the same issue. Since the transmission was replaced Ive had major problems with the a/c and battery. The car just shut off going 40 mph down the highway today. I am officially retiring this vehicle

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  End of 3 year lease - 2005 Mazda Tribute
  By bigbaby - September 28 - 4:13 pm

  3rd review of the Tribute. Its still a great car after 2.5 years. I do want to get something new so Ill be trading this in (lease has positive equity). Absolutely no problems. Just put gas and do oil changes and it runs like a champ. Recently went on I-30 from Dallas to Arkansas. Set the cruise at 65 and wound up getting 29.5 MPG. A 6 cyl SUV with only a 4 speed automatic! Some lucky used car buyer is going to get a winner with this car.

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  What a hunk-o-junk - 2000 Mazda MPV
  By NotaHappyCust - September 28 - 10:00 am

  I bought this van after extensive research into general reliability but I musta got a lemon! In the last six months: corroded coolant lines $600; alternator $800; front brakes (12mos old) $250; drivers window mechanism $800; wiper arm (fell off!) $100; front stabilizer links x2 $250. I could have lived with a gutless wonder with bad gas mileage but not with all these repair bills. I called Mazda but they couldnt have cared less. I feel bad unloading it on somebody but this baby is gone!!! Back to Honda/Toyota for this guy.

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  great ride - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By nubenegra - September 28 - 10:00 am

  is fun to drive, runs great, looks great the only problem is the gas.

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  Buckle up and drive! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Marcus Mazda - September 28 - 10:00 am

  I am having so much fun with this car. It gets me in front of almost any car I want to get in front of... People with more expensive cars, and young kids stare at it... (Now thats cool) and its just fun to drive, so buckle up and drive... Gas is a factor, it uses it.. expecially just getting the car.. You always find yourself stepping on the gas pedal (Hard) Big Smile.... Ok, things you should know. Check oil every other gas fill up until the first oil change.. yes it burns oil.. Dont get the synthetic oil... Just get the oil Mazda recommends. In closing.. Oh my god... Zoom Zoom.. worth every penny!

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  Oh so silky. - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Jeff W - September 28 - 10:00 am

  A sports car that is pure yet practical sounds like an oxymoron, yet the RX-8 is truly that. This is a sports car not a muscle car, meaning it can handle better than most cars twice its price, but dont try to race WRXs or Mustang Cobras. The elegant style and uniqueness of the rotary engine set this car apart with its competition. I recommend ensuring that the ECU gets an M flash, which further enhances the smoothness, low-end HP and fuel economy.

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  Wonderful Car for the Money!! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By soapboxhothead - September 28 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned the 3s 5-Dr 4AT for about 4 mos now and LOVE IT! Heavily researched competitive & more expensive models & dont regret buying the 3s. Wanted the 6s & when I test drove the 3 I fell in love! I get "what kind of car is that?" and "nice car dude!" all the time! Handles wonderfully, goes where you point it though a little loose at the limits. Bought the 4AT for LA traffic and I sometimes wish it had another gear, but the AT is slick and sure. Gas mileage is avg. at best (21 around town) As a former industrial designer I can say the interior is spot-on though I would like to see more adjustments in the seats. This car is much nicer than its sticker price! Buy one!