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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  Old mans last fling??? - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Mazda family. - March 23 - 1:20 pm

  Pure sports car in a compact(?)model. Corners on a dime and leaves change. Only problem Ive had is a non-working trunk light. Good size fuel tank but the mileage could be better. Brakes are impressive with little nose dive. Only slight torque steer on heavy throttle. Reminds me of the old muscle cars but with the handling of a sports model.

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  My Mazda 3 S Touring - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By William Schwarz - March 23 - 10:50 am

  I have only about 300 miles on the Mazda. It is fun to drive and handles very well. The steering and suspension is crisp, the brakes are responsive and smooth. My first tank of gas, mostly local suburban driving, was over 28 MPG. The engine runs slightly rough idling while stopped. I was told this is characteristic of a four cylinder engine. It is surprisingly quick off the line. The only other comment I have is that the key fob does not have a button to open the trunk. All doors may be locked and unlocked from the key fob but for some reason they did not include a trunk release which seems like an oversight. The body panels have good fit, finish and integrity. So far I am very pleased.

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  Need More Features for a $45K SUV - 2016 Mazda CX-9
  By Mink70 - March 21 - 8:58 pm

  Considered this car for my wife and as a second car for trips. Agree with another reviewer that Mazda has produced a very good midsize SUV but has failed to add features that make the top trim models worth the $45K+ price. With a few changes, Mazda could hit it out of the park with the CX-9. The seat bottoms and back could could be a bit wider by falattening the side bolsters without widening the compartment. Cant understand why passenger seat is only 4-way on a SUV of this price. Need to have power 10--way driver and 8-way passenger adjustments. Heated and cooler front seats would be a selling point. There also is no heated steering wheel. Interior and exterior color combinations are limited in Grand Touring (no silver with light interior) and theres only one interior color for the Signature, whose leather is of high quality but a tacky color compared to its European competition. No front park assist (beeper) or surround camera like Japanese and Korean mfgs. On the other hand, access to 3rd seat is better than most in its class, the AC is excellent, the infotainment system is the best of breed, and overall handling and comfort is superior. Mazda may have limited its trim because the 2016 CX-9 is the first generation of this new model. Hopefully, the company will produce enough upgrades to actully justify its being considered an upscale midsize SUV.

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  Puff Ball - 1999 Mazda 626
  By rosco - March 21 - 10:00 am

  Not enough power. Poor transmisson.

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  3 years and Going - 2001 Mazda Tribute
  By Kentucky Driver - March 21 - 10:00 am

  My wife loves to drive it because of its get up and go. Drives as smooth and comfortable as a sports car. After 30,000 miles I took it in to replace pads. I was surprised when the rotors were worn down to nothing. Cost me $400. I was always curious why this car generated so much brake dust. At 45,000 miles, the car just stalled. I read other Tribute drivers experienced this. For the most part, we love this SUV...now if we can just get rid of that incessant rattle in the hatch.

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  First 3,000 miles, all is good - 2017 Mazda CX-5
  By Don - March 21 - 4:25 am

  I compared this SUV verses the Honda CRV top two rated vehicles. Both are great SUVs I choose the CX5 for its styling, particular the front nose, and the great handling (feel behind the wheel). The interior of the CX5 compares with that of far more expensive vehicles. I have the Gt model with heads-up display, all the adaptive safety features and forward display perform exceptionally well. Safety and ease of vehicle entry is the emphasis for us seniors. I have received many compliments on the CX5 candy apple red color.

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  2nd To NONE - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By 2rx8 - March 19 - 10:00 am

  My first RX8 was totaled in an accident (hit by red light run side driver door impact). Fire/EMT said side airbag saved serious head injury if not my life. When seeking replacement car I didnt hesitate to get another RX8. Ive not been disappointed in the past 6 years and dont want to part with my RX8. Previously had RX7 and had problems with restart on cold engine, but never with my 2005. The only thing Ive had to replace is the battery and tires. Love this car! And I have a Viper so I have real comparative performance. Not that the RX8 is anywhere near a Viper, but when I dont drive the Viper I dont at all mind my RX8.

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  Beware of interior and paint - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By dd mass - March 19 - 10:00 am

  so far car has been good except the moldings around radio the black plastic moldings melted in the heat and mazda will not cover them due to outside influence so mazda does not stand behind there products hope if anything happens to engine they stand behind that paint chips to easily

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  Cheap Thrills - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Agent Smith - March 19 - 10:00 am

  This is a terrific car. Outstanding chassis and suspension and tight steering lead to amazing handling and stability. The ride is firm but not harsh. The 2.3L 4 cyl runs strong. I love the 5 sp auto-stick. In 2nd and 3rd gears it pulls like crazy, maxing out the torque. For a small car, it feels very solid on the interstate at speed. Disappointments include gas mileage in city @ 20 mpg; original tires wore out at 20,000 mi; and I just replaced the rotors at 25,000 mi. re: rotors, ironically, the pads were fine. Otherwise zero issues. I would buy another one in a heartbeat.

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  My experience with the new 3 GTI - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Andrew - March 19 - 10:00 am

  I really enjoy driving my car everyday to work, since Im not a long distance driver, I really want to go on a long trip on my car, cause It feels great driving it. My car as an annoying sound on the dashboard that the dealer hasnt been able to identify, it develops specially on hot temperatures, it really bothers me, but everything else is excellent.