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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  One recurring problem - 2002 Mazda Protege5
  By Peter R. - April 30 - 5:33 am

  I was initially happy with the car. The handling was superb and it suited my needs. However the odd size tires 195/55 16 are hard to find and expensive. The worst part has been the brakes. The left rear caliper siezed after 18 months and was fixed under warranty. I have had the same problem occur two more times in 7 years of ownership. I have replaced the rear rotors twice and the rear calipers once in 80,000. Plus 2 sets of pads and a rebuild of the the seized caliper twice. This is an unacceptable issue in my mind. My benchmark is my 1994 corolla that had zero problems in 120,000 miles.

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  Not the car for you if you live in a winter climate - 2006 Mazda Mazda5
  By mnmomdriver - April 28 - 3:17 am

  When I 1st got this car I loved it. Now that Ive driven it for 2 years I have had it. My biggest complaint is the seat belts. I have had to replace 2 seat belts because the reciever has just come apart. I would hate to be in an accident because I have no faith that my family would be safe. When I called Mazda they would not replace the 2nd one because it wasnt under warranty. They obviously dont care about safety. I also have issues with the tires & the snow. Even with the snow tires you cant get traction because of all the snow pack. I am also quite disappointed with the gas mileage. I was hoping to get at least 27 mpg but actually get about 21 mpg.

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  Stormy Blue GT - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By crazybus - April 27 - 4:46 pm

  We came out of a 2003 MDX, and this is bigger, more comfortable, and has more bells and whistles - all for less money!

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  Excellent Vehicle to drive - 2013 Mazda CX-9
  By jmorana - April 26 - 4:55 pm

  The Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring that I recently bought is awesome. Nice feeling when you drive it, superior technology package, comfort and have 7 seats!!! . Thanks to George Dupuy who took the time to show this excellent vehicle to my wife with all the details. The test drive was a great experience to make the final decision to buy this car.

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  Absolutely love it - 2008 Mazda Mazda6
  By Favorite car - April 26 - 3:13 pm

  My Mazda 6 is the most fun car I have ever had. The 5 speed manual paired with the torquey V6 makes the car a dream to drive, but is not to overbearing to the point you cant use it as a family car. It is very roomy inside, plenty of room for kids in the back, and the trunk is vast. Could use just a little more in the way of economy though. Otherwise a phenomenal car!

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  Not too Shabby - 1999 Mazda 626
  By RPerez01 - April 26 - 2:00 am

  At times I wish I could buy another car only because I like to have a new car all the time (but Im not rich) Maybe its not as stylish as others but its not a bad looking car I have spruced it up a bit with a spoiler, added wood trim around dash, radio, shifter also updated the grill with the 2000 model grill (BIGGER Mazda logo) and added some chrome molding around front and rear bumpers and it looks great. Next a nice set of rims and that should be all. Otherwise no real complaints, replaced timing belt, brakes and 2 sensors (normal stuff)

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  Love the MPV - 2003 Mazda MPV
  By bigmike7 - April 26 - 2:00 am

  Came out of a 2001 Maxima-wanted a minivan that handeled similar and of similar size-the MPV was that vehicle. With the dealer $5000 off MSRP came out around $3000 BELOW invoice-a great deal!! Like the handling, comfort and style plus the good pickup (made even better with a K&N air filter and a "Tornado") and am getting about 24 mpg!! wife loves it too - even occasionally drives it to the store, etc. To the other poster regarding the sliding door vs. the gas tank opening-I had the same concern until I had it open and tried the door-the vehicle puts a stop on the door about 2 inches before the gas door as opened-so no worries mate.

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  Great - 2004 Mazda Tribute
  By Steve Carbone - April 26 - 2:00 am

  Bought this car about two months ago and have had no problems. Was looking for small suv since the birth of a son and decided on this one from the deal. saved thousands over competition. Seats are hard but still comfortable for long rides.

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  Best MiniVan Ever Drove - 2001 Mazda MPV
  By melp - April 25 - 10:00 am

  I like the car-like feel and behavior. Solid body, nimble and fun-to-drive. It has enough power to go zoom zoom.

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  Love It To Death! - 2002 Mazda Protege5
  By NewMazdaFan - April 25 - 10:00 am

  I initially purchased a PT Cruiser near the end of January, but I always had a nagging feeling that I shouldve given the P5 another shot. Not even 2 months after I purchased the Cruiser, the P5 got another shot, and in my mind, it blew the PT away! I traded on the spot and Ive never looked back! The P5 is a great car, no doubt about it. Many people seem to the think that the stereo leaves something to be desired, but I find it to be quite adequate. The interior and exterior are very attractive. Every time I get out I always take a look back just to admire its good looks! Unlike with the PT, Im looking forward to the next 71 months, hopefully they wont seem so long!