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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  After 1 year still lovin it... - 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Lucibelle - March 25 - 6:36 am

  We have been driving the MX5 PRHT for almost a year now and still love the experience. The only reason I get to drive is because my wife loves to be chauffered. The car is a real show stopper, everywhere we go someone is turning their head to see that car go by. As small as it looks any 6 person should be able to fit and get in and out comfortably. One complaint, I cant drive the car without breaking the law, it always wants more Zoom- zoom.

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  Awesome - 2014 Mazda Mazda3
  By jdgrn8 - March 25 - 2:10 am

  Excellent car. 2.0L 6M Touring w/o infotainment system. Handling is precise, enabled by a decent engine and slick manual tranny, Performed admirably in the great Buffalo blizzard of 2014. ESC was great. AVG 39MPG on the highway, and 34MPG in mixed driving. Noise is minimal for the class. Ride is superior for the class--feels like a luxury sedan. Standard radio/speaker is plenty for audio. I test drove the $1600 technology package and was not impressed. Most of that value can be covered by any decent smart phone. Overall an excellent, reliable vehicle, that excels as a true drivers car. If you want to love your commute and not break the bank, pick up a Mazda 3.

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  Great car! - 2000 Mazda Millenia
  By toe_lint - March 22 - 10:00 am

  I love this car! I first learned about the Millenia when I drove a standard version. I liked everything about it, except that I wanted a little more power. The S gives you that power. Great performer on the highways - the smoothest accelerating car Ive ever driven. Great sound system, great car for long-distance driving.

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  Under Valued - 2001 Mazda Millenia
  By rnfis - March 22 - 10:00 am

  I think Mazda should really consider re-making the MMS! Ive ave. btwn 22 and 28mpg. Its grt on the highway and has plnty of pep when you need it. The leather dsnt get too warm when the sun beats on it all day. Recently had the opp to take a long ride w/ 4 adults and 1 child. We had plenty of room inside for of us. Lumbar sppt is a nice add on during long trips. I dont inticipate using the seat wrmers too much here in So. Cal. but the car is complete to say the least. Yes it would be nice to have a navigation system but for those on the go, Garmin 2620 is far better than factory installed ones Ive come accross and cost much less.

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  hot lil car! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Tony DB - March 22 - 10:00 am

  great performance.....only drawback is lack of storage in trunk with spare tire in there.

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  Mickeys - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Mickey Terry - March 22 - 10:00 am

  My new RX-8 is a blast to drive. It handles like no other car Ive ever driven. Driving curvey roads has never been so much fun.

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  The experience - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Kodiak_sniper - March 22 - 10:00 am

  Car handles/feels the same at 80 as 55 in slow traffic < 20mph you can here emgine fan turns on and off. stearing wheel does not telescope far enough for longer legged drivers. In tight curves at higher speeds on rough road, front tires feel like they are bouncing off the road like quick small finger tapping. Engine feels like its dragging at lower speeds < 35mph

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  Buy this car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By cliffordsnd009 - March 22 - 10:00 am

  I think mazda finally got it right.The styling is off the hook. I get so much attention with the velocity red which looks like a candy red when the sun hits it. The hids are great but not as colorful as I would like but overall,its a great car. I got mine with all the options except for navigation.I dont need it since I plan to put an aftermarket one in soon as a kit becomes available. I have 3 words to say. GET THIS CAR. CIVICS WATCH OUT

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  A wonderful small SUV - 2014 Mazda CX-5
  By gc666 - March 22 - 9:23 am

  originally looking at CX9. Dealer said best hoped for mileage would be 22-24. Needed better. Bought this 2014 as a certified preowned, 6 mos old, 11000 miles. it is the Grand Touring with 2.5 engine. plenty of power, smooth running, smooth shifting, and best of all great mileage. I was used to a tdi Jetta getting 49 mph. Mazda estimates this engine at 30 combined and 35 highway. that is exactly what I am getting; and actually closer to 36. I couldnt be happier. Interior room much larger than I had expected. I can carry 4 golf bags and their owners with comfort.

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  I love this car. - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By fumarola - March 22 - 1:20 am

  Im an 18 year old that just graduated high school, and im in the military. I purchased this car loving it at first sight. I got it for a great deal. Yes i paid for it, its in my name not my parents. I get about 24-25 highway 18-20 city. I shift between 3-4 but i heard its good to be hard once in awhile so ill take it up to 6-7.Premium gas (93 octane) always. Also good to rev to 3 before shutting down. Also i warm it up for 1-2 mins and hold it at 3 for 5 seconds. Its a great car, lots of fun.