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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  Yet another engine failed - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By densem - April 14 - 5:04 pm

  "It must have love but its over now..."Just as so many of them, my engine failed at just 28k very light miles. Bought the car used (Certified) at d Mazda dealership with only 19k miles. No warning signs, no lights, not even signs of oil consumption. Noticed a subtle rattling noise over 2500 RPM, took it to the dealer - death certificate issued in 2 hours. The car was still under Mazda power train warranty. Mazda Motors of America refused to honor it. Used top shelf synthetic oil, name-brand filters, never seen jiffy-lube places...kept all records and receipts and yet - warranty denied due to "lack of maintenance". Save yourself the trouble, do your research, on the 2.3l engine. Dont buy.

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  Dont do it! - 1998 Mazda 626
  By never again!!! - April 14 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car used about two years ago as a commuter car. It had about 36000 when I bought it. Now it has 78000 and the transmission is beginning to slip. After reading other reviews it appears as though my opinion of FORD quality has been reaffirmed, Fixed Or Repaired Daily. I am also geting a grinding noise from the driver side from tire. I had an older Mazda previous to this with no problems, but this car is awful. The Mitsubishi that I replaced had 170000 miles on it without ever getting the problems I am having with this car.

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  HOLY SMOKE! WHAT A DEAL! - 2002 Mazda Millenia
  By ALJONES99 - April 14 - 10:00 am

  I looked at the Avalon, the Camry, the Accord and the Millenia. As a former Honda addict, the transition to such a luxury ride was surprisingly pleasant. Doesnt ride as smoothly as the Avalon, but has KICK BUTT sportiness you dont get with an Avalon. The Special Edition S (what I purchased) is simply beyond beautiful - inside and out! It turns heads everywhere. Ive actually caught co-workers wandering around my new car in the parking lot admiring it! When you stop at a redlight/stopsign, you couldnt even hear the engine if you stood outside in absolute silence. Every imaginable amentity in the world - except a navigation system!!

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  Bets minivan for small family. - 2002 Mazda MPV
  By ska - April 14 - 10:00 am

  Recently we were belssed with a daughter and I had to change my coupe to some bigger vehicle. I tried lots of SUV/minivans and at last narrowed down to Odyssey, Pilot, MDX and MPV. First we thought that we will settle for SUV (looks good from outside), but once inside, we loved the interior of minivans (Odyssey EX-L and MPV ES), space was much better used and we have lots of flexibility in seating. Anyway now it was Odyssey and MPV. Both were nice, but we decided for MPV based on: Perfect size for us. Exterior is much micer looking. Interior is comparable to Odyssey. Driving/handling was comparable to Odyssey. AND we got it $7000 cheaper than Odyssey.

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  02 LX - 2003 Mazda MPV
  By glideslopes - April 14 - 10:00 am

  This is a very nice vehicle. We love the handling, power, visibility from the inside, and especially the interior egonomics. Very glad we went with this over the Honda, or Toyota. Those two definitely had inflated pricing. Had droves of Honda and Toyota owners looking it over at Saturdays Soccer games. Not a single build defect noted in our first 1,000 miles of ownership. This is the best minivan in this class today hands down. This is our second Mazda, and surely will not be our last.

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  Not bad for the money - 1999 Mazda 626
  By tharry8 - April 13 - 11:06 pm

  Bought this car used in 2006 for $4900 and had 60,000 miles on it. Now have 104,000 miles. No real problems, just normal maintenance. 4cyl has very little power, and gas mileage isnt that good (22 mpg) considering the lack of performance. I can see the Ford influences, what a shame. Thought I was getting a Japanese car. Should have done my homework. Bought for daughter to train on, kind of a bumper car if you know what I mean.

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  Not a family car - 2012 Mazda Mazda6
  By mommabllck - April 13 - 12:28 pm

  There are a few pros to this car however it doesnt function well as a family car. The latch system was too far into the seat which made uninstall difficult. The driver seat even though adjustable, just wasnt comfortable enough.

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  Great SUV - 2010 Mazda CX-7
  By skorste - April 12 - 9:09 pm

  Ive been driving the CX7 for 2 months. Its been driven through a foot of snow-no problem. Iced over roads- no problem. Heavy rain- no problem. The AWD has performed awesome. The leather interior is very comfortable, sound system is good, and the heated seats are nice. Been getting 19-20 mpg with 50/50 city/highway driving. The turbo is a blast. When I need it to move quickly, it does. Handling is as advertised. So far, its been great.

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  Dangerous to test drive. - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By zenmouse - April 12 - 7:03 pm

  I bought my 2005 RX-8 about a week ago, switching from my Audi A4. I never intended to buy the car, but my girlfriend was buying a Mazda 3, and I figured Id give the 8 a spin while I was at the dealership. Hands-down, its the most fun car Ive ever driven. Its light and agile, rockets you faster to 60 than an s2000, and has incredibly good looks. The rotary engine has a beautiful powerband (and sound), and the 9,000 rpm redline is unbelievable! The four-door functionality is definitely a deal-clincher, as it makes this beast actually practical. My only gripe is the mpg which seems like it should be higher for the size of the engine. But if mpg is what I wanted, Id have bought a Civic.

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  Excellent Vehicle! A Must Buy! - 2007 Mazda Mazda5
  By Al - April 12 - 8:36 am

  I am in sales and drive about 35K/year,so I can quickly know if a vehicle is going to last and this has been the BEST VEHICLE I have ever owned. After 76K miles this car has been extremely reliable with no repairs other than scheduled maintenance. Also no rattles or odd noises, its a very well built solid car. The domestic car companies should take note! Im averaging about 29-30 MPG mixed driving using a K&N airfilter and synthetic oil (Amsoil). Even though it doesnt have all the bells and whistles and the interior is rather spartan/cheap feeling, it is very functional. I am very confident that I will see 150K ++ from this vehicle.