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:

• 

  best car Ive owned - 2000 Mazda Protege
  By natem - August 3 - 10:00 am

  This has been by far the best car Ive owned. In 3 years Ive put nearly 90,000 miles on it and it has never given me any trouble. The only time it has been in the shop is for oil changes, brake pads and new tires. It handles great and sticks to the road even in wet conditions. I get 38 mpg on the highway and about 32 in town with the 5 speed. The best small car out there. I hope to get another 90K out of it. Then I might consider the new Mazda 6.

• 

  Mazda Protege is the class leader. - 2003 Mazda Protege
  By Aaron Simler - August 3 - 10:00 am

  While Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla are admirable economy cars and best sellers, they are pretty much blah, bland comfortable appliances that get you from point A to point B. Thats fine and all, but I want to have some fun too, and Mazdas world class Protege delivers both. This is a fine Japanese built sports sedan, economical and reliable. Very comfortable transport, but it also has this split personality thing going for it. This thing has the soul of the Mazda Miata in it.

• 

  What a van! - 2003 Mazda MPV
  By new van owner - August 3 - 10:00 am

  Ive always hated vans but my wife wanted something roomy and SUVs are overpriced. We picked up an 03 LX for $20,500 after rebate with 4-seasons pkg, rear heat & rear a/c, bumper step, fog lights, roof rack. This thing RUNS! It drives and rides like a car with tons of room considering its considered a compact mini-van. We get 20mpg city with 4300 miles on it so far. I just couldnt touch the Toyota or Honda for the price and the extra room they have isnt worth it for me.

• 

  Mazda love!! - 2003 Mazda Tribute
  By Kathy Austin - August 3 - 10:00 am

  I first saw the Tribute on the road. Had to check one out. I am in love with mine. Fell asleep at wheel one day and went into gravel. I feel like I should have flipped, but my Tribute kept me upright after a slight struggle. That is when I knew this was the SUV for me. Hope to enjoy it for many years to come. Riding in style!!

• 

  2003 Mazda Tribute - 2003 Mazda Tribute
  By Ahmad - August 3 - 10:00 am

  I love this vehicle. I also like the fact that yo see them everywhere.

• 

  2003 Tribute - 2003 Mazda Tribute
  By Loriann23 - August 3 - 10:00 am

  My experience has so far been excellent. The tribute is fun to drive, and handled well in the Winter on slick roads even with only front wheel drive.

• 

  Mazdafied - 2003 Mazda Tribute
  By jack leni - August 3 - 10:00 am

  Having driven this Tribute since 9/01, I can honestly say I have enjoyed every minute. The vehicle handles well and response is quick and trustworthy. At higher speeds(70 mph) the car is noisey from the wind factor. Fuel mileage is great, 19mpg city and 22mpg highway. I would like to see a more dressy interior to complement the over all vehicle. I definitely would purchase another Mazda again.

• 

  New RX8 - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By liger - August 3 - 10:00 am

  The cockpit is just perfect but the rear seats are not comfortable for adults, but is roomier compared to other coupes.

• 

  By far the best car ive ever owned - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Alex E - August 3 - 10:00 am

  This car far exceeded my expectations for mazda. It is an extremely fun and inspired car to drive, and gets a lot of attention as well. The best way i can describe the amount of driving pleasure this car sparks, is by referring to the honda s2000. In terms of power delivery, it is very similar to the s2000, in my opinion having better steering feel then the honda, and a much better ride quality, however the shift feel is not quite as good as the honds (but it is still excellent)

• 

  A drivers dream - 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By skpetter - August 3 - 7:43 am

  I just got my second roadster a MX5 LS and I am sorry that I waited 23 years. My first car I bought after college was a 1972 Fiat 850 Spyder that constantly made trips up and down the pacific Coast Highway. Mazdas version of the roader updates all the fun of a classic lightweight roadster with the technology of today. The transmission is fantastic and well spaced and the acceleration is fantastic. It runs well on the freeway and the only regret I have is I now live in Florida so I cant have the exprience of mountain driving up to Angelest Crest on those great winding roads to Crestline. You dont ride in his car you are one with it