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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  Great SUV - 2016 Mazda CX-9
  By Brian - December 14 - 12:11 am

  We compared this vehicle to the Honda Pilot and the Toyota Highlander. We eliminated the Highlander after one test drive, and then test drove the Pilot and CX-9. We ended up buying the Mazda, however there were a couple of things that we liked about the Pilot - the inside storage compartments are way bigger (there is a place between the driver and front passenger seat that is huge and can store almost anything) than on the Mazda, and the right side blind-spot monitoring was pretty cool. However, the inside materials of the Pilot seemed cheap, and the drive was not as smooth. So we ended up buying the Mazda, and overall we are happy, though we do wish the interior storage was bigger.

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  A $30,000 Porsche - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By TrueFan - December 13 - 1:56 pm

  Fantastic car. The people who say that the ergonomics are iffy, dont know what the word ergonomics means. Best controls Ive ever had on any car Ive ever driven.

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  Fun Family Wagon - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jerry Wacek - December 13 - 2:30 am

  Bought new in July 2004. Very fun to drive, and it looks great for a 5 door wagon. Good amount of pep and corners flat with a lot of grip. Good cargo space, once fit an armchair in the back with the seats folded. Rear is a little tight with a rear facing child seat, but otherwise good for two adults. Im 63" and fit very comfortably with only a little rubbing on the center console. MPG are a little less than expected, partly because it is so easy to drive fast. My 2004 only has a 4 speed auto so RPM are a little high on the freeway. Negatives include weak AC, high road noise, ride can be firm on broken pavement, only one intermittent wiper speed, tires are expensive to replace

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  So far, very happy! - 2008 Mazda Mazda5
  By Nikki32 - December 13 - 1:36 am

  We needed a newer mini-van that would fit our familys needs and stay in budget. The Mazda5 drives great, much sportier than our sedans. Holds the corners very well, feeling very solid on the road. It is very comfortable for a family of 4. Easy to get the car seats in the bucket seats. Sliding doors make it super easy to get kids in and out, and we can park this car in a compact spot. It also fits in the garage easily. Even with our super height difference, my husband and I find it easy to drive and visibility is very good. Other minivans we test drove were bulky. This performs like a car. Even loaded with suitcases, it performs well. And the price was very reasonable.

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  Somewhat Disappointed - 2008 Mazda Tribute
  By STX - December 12 - 2:40 pm

  This is the first time I buy a Mazda Tribute. Was pretty impressed with the design and the interior. Has plenty of room for driver and passengers. Has some good features that are very accessible from the drivers seat. Very good on mileage and economy.

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  Great Car at a Great Price! - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By Atlanta Commuter - December 12 - 2:00 am

  I wanted a relatively small commuter vehicle that had great gas mileage. Also wanted something sporty and that looked nice. Got all that and then some in the PR5! I test drove the Civic EX, Corolla, Matrix/Vibe, and even the Camry (the car my wife wanted). None compared to the PR5 in terms of looks, standard options, performance, and uniqueness (dont see very many on the road). As far as cost, got it for $100 under dealer invoice & 0% interest for 5 years thanks to doing my research here and allowing email to do the negotiating for me. Had the best price nailed before I stepped foot on the lot! This is by far a great value for the money.

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  Ditch the PT - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By rsnowman13 - December 12 - 2:00 am

  After owning a PT Cruiser for 6 months, I dithced it for a Protege5. I had nothing but trouble with the PT and the gas mileage was abysmal (16 combined). The Protege5 outhandles and outperforms the PT in every area accept 1. The PT did have more cargo space. Otherwise, the Protege5 has been a joy. Plenty of room for my needs and waaaaaaay more fun on the back roads. Sure it could use a few more ponies under the hood, but thats what the aftermarket catalogues are for.

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  You Must Buy a Mazda3 - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Mel - December 11 - 12:13 pm

  I bought my 2010 mazda for its appearance inside and out. It takes corners sharply, ride is smooth, easy to handle, feels & looks sporty. Has awesome power. When I drive I feel like saying ZOOM ZOOM! I would recommend. 2010 has traction control which is an upgrade from prior models. Controls on the steering wheel is smart. Air Conditioner cools car down faster than I ever experience and it isnt too cold where you have to turn it down or off - just right.

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  Lovin the ride - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By Manatnac - December 11 - 2:23 am

  This is my third rotary and it is great. I have had no problems, its fun to drive and has all the passing power I need. Corners so well, shifts easily, smooth power, and is so beautiful to look at. The sound system is good too. Not a window blowing sound but certainly adequate for the small interior. Many do add woofers and amps but that is a personal choice. The fit and finish of body parts is tight, the brakes are strong, and the styling is unique. I am a satisfied customer.

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  I love driving again - 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By rob7 - December 7 - 10:00 am

  I honestly look forward to the most routine errands or just any excuse to drive my Miata. The style and look of this gem turns heads everywhere I go. I love my Miata.