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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  Love my Mazda 3 - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Bernie - July 25 - 6:06 am

  Ive had this car for over two weeks and really like it. It has great acceleration, good braking distance and is very responsive. The interior is great and I really want to push the car, but Im trying to discipline myself.

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  A Great Value that Does everything well - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By caholla - July 24 - 9:36 pm

  I traded my Miata in for a 3s hatchback. It does everything well, and nothing poorly. Ive had no issues with it in almost a year. Its fun to drive, roomy, comfortable, stylish. The features you get for the price are unexpected...I love the gauges, it has a decent stereo, lots of character and is well assembled.

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  zoom zoom fun - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By eh2003 - July 24 - 4:50 pm

  I really love to drive this car and drive it fast. It will hit turns harder than a sport bike and ask for more. I dont like the gas mileage which is 18mpg if I run the heck out of it and 21 if I dont. This could be the perfect sports car if it had a healthy torque boost on the low end. Other than that it is really a blast to drive.

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  Research paid off - 2015 Mazda CX-5
  By bobbarnett - July 21 - 10:34 pm

  I read everything I could about this car for months. When everyone praised the AWD model, I began getting dealers to match prices and discounts through Costco pricing. Out the door w every extra, including LoJack, white paint, and plastic coating, I paid $35,000 w Ca tax and license. I love this car. Its fun and simple to drive, mid range torque rocks, and the 9 speaker Bose system is fabulous w CDs, Sirius Or Bluetooth high level Pandora. Lots of power ports, even in the rear storage area. W 1000 miles now, were going on a trek up the Ca and Or coasts in May, and then to Crater Lake. W the 70 LB Golden Doodle. Will report again then.

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  Great car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By vaibhav - July 21 - 12:00 pm

  Great car to have as compared to Civic. Much better in handling and interiors are of superior quality. Its like a mini-Mercedes for $18k.

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  Great Value - 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By New Miata Owner - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Fun to drive on those windy mountain roads or along the cost. OK on the highway, top down or up. Doesnt get blown around by the big trucks. Real value at $19,000. Great 3rd car. High gas mileage. Great grins for the money.

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  Best of the Best! - 2004 Mazda Tribute
  By grblake - July 21 - 2:00 am

  After reading Edmunds reviews, I was a little skeptical. Dont believe what the Web Site says! The main vehicle is co-built by Ford as the Escape. Ford builds most of their vehicles well, as does Mazda. The engine is NOT a rotary, therefore is very quiet. On gas mileage I am averaging between 21 and 28 MPG. My first trip was from the L.A. area to Barstow and I got over 27 MPG with the A/C on! If you want a roomy, fuel-efficient SUV, this is it!

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  tribute to tribute - 2004 Mazda Tribute
  By Jim Eckenrode - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Nice "cute ute".Enough room inside,better looking outside than the Escape.It does need rear disc brakes and a limited slip would be nice.Too few dealer accessories available to customize. Minor customization only! Little add ons to make it "mine".

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  I love my 2004 Mazda Tribute - 2004 Mazda Tribute
  By ChiChi - July 21 - 2:00 am

  I just turned in a leased Nissan Pathfinder and purchased a Tribute. Once I test drove a Tribute, I knew I had to have it. It handles like a dream and is the perfect size for me. On demand 4WD is great and I can find nothing about it that I dont love.

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  mazda3 - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By rgonzo - July 21 - 2:00 am

  one of the most fun cars i have ever driven.