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:

• 

  Simply Amazing! - 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Antonio Banderas - April 16 - 5:16 pm

  Wow! What am amazing car! Amazing performance for a 4-cylinder, and surprisingly roomy on the inside. Bose audio is great, and the hardtop was included as well. Plenty of style, plenty of fun, and plenty of saved gas money in your wallet. A great choice if you are in dire need for some serious fun, but cant spring for that $50,000 convertible.

• 

  Fun family car - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By a3photogod - April 16 - 3:56 pm

  After looking at a G6 and a Passat, the Mazda6 was the way to go. Sporty looks and handling, this car just wants to go zoom-zoom. This is a great value; side airbags, traction, ABS, all for around 22K. Plenty of room for the family. The hatchback opens up for more than enough room (only 10 cubic feet less than my Sorento). Solid feel, sticks to the road. Great profile. The Blazing Copper is hot, many compliments and catching people looking in and around the car. We are very pleased with this purchase. Keeps us 30 somethings feeling youthful, especially with kids. Great all around car; you must consider this highly when shopping for a mid-size sedan.

• 

  I am a new "Zoom-Zoom" Disciple - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By KRemsen - April 16 - 2:53 pm

  After driving a 2001 Toyota Corolla for 6 years, all I can say is wow!! What a difference. The car came with everything I wanted and more. The acceleration and braking are fantasic for any car, let alone a compact. The engine is refined and never loses its punch, and the sport shift automatic tranny is a blast. The ride is much stiffer than my old Corolla, but its not harsh. It has all the airbags standard. The handling is top notch and all the safety nanny stuff can be shut off so you can explore the cars potential. Left with the car 3 hours after the test drive. The styling inside and out is unexpectedly refined and sporty for a car in this class.

• 

  M3 - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By John70 - April 16 - 10:00 am

  It is a great car

• 

  Nice Ride - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By ciris12 - April 16 - 10:00 am

  I am very happy with my Mazda3, it is very smooth and comfortable. Gas mileage is great specially these days. Overall is a nice looking car.

• 

  LOVE MY M6 - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By sun bum - April 16 - 10:00 am

  I LOVE MY M6. ITS SPORTY, SEXY AND SAFE FOR THE KIDS TO BE IN. DRIVES GREAT.THE INTERIOR IS COMFORTABLE AND BEAUTIFUL TOO.

• 

  love my wagon - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By yogagirl - April 16 - 10:00 am

  Ive only got about 1200 miles on this car, but so far I love it. I actually look forward to driving to work! Wagon utility in a sharp-looking, fun- to-drive car.

• 

  Everything I thought it would be & more! - 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By suzy-q - April 16 - 3:00 am

  This car is so much fun to drive and own. The gas mileage is averaging 31 mpg. This car gets lots of attention. Compact but worth it for the handling and economy. The hard top is fast up and down and cuts the noise. I highly recommend it if you need some fun in your day. Life is short, enjoy it all you can in a Miata!!!

• 

  apotheosis of a dream - 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By woodyas - April 15 - 11:53 pm

  Bottom line: this car is in undeniably fun to drive. Top down, wind in the hair, and a pure feeling of freedom. Hell, why was I not doing this years ago? Not sure about every convertible out there, but this sure seems like the best damn one out there. And how do you beat the price--or the numerous accolades the Miata has one. To be succinct: I love this car!

• 

  Nice and confortable - 2002 Mazda Protege
  By francisco - April 15 - 3:36 am

  hi, i bought this car on april 09, i really dont trust in mazdas cars, but this car was cheap. Now i love this car, is comfortable, have a 2.0 liter(strong engine and fast);on gas its good 35miles/galon. i like the interior too, and outside is looks good. i drive everyday 120 miles (home- work-home)5 days a week, since i bought this car never had any problem. THANKS MAZDA CO.