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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  Vinces Rx8 - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By vince michael - January 8 - 10:00 am

  I have owned Rx7s but this one is right on the money.It handels great and has even helped me to avoid an accident.Sometimes its hard to feel safe in a sports car. Not this one! The Rx8 is the best of its kind yet.

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  Mazda 3s 5door- It Really Is Zoom Zoom!! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Rillo - January 8 - 10:00 am

  This is my first new vehicle purchase and I have to say that I am VERY impressed overall. I love the body styling, the 17" alloy wheels, and the abundance of options you can choose from to customize your car! The handling and agility the car provides is incredible for this price range. The engine has a definite refinement about it that I did not feel in the Corolla, or Civic. Interior space is nicely appointed and can fit four comfortably. It feels large. The hatchback also provides ample room for cargo when the rear seats are folded down. Ergonomically the interior beats the competition hands down. My only complaint, gas mielage is lower than anticipated.

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  2004 Mazda 3 - 5 speed 2.3 litre - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By sy32004 - January 8 - 10:00 am

  My first new car and i could not be happier. There are minor things that i feel could be better, but overall this is a great car.

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  AWESOME CAR - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By earp - January 8 - 10:00 am

  the best car i have ever owned

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  Despite few gripes, would buy again - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By 3owner - January 7 - 9:53 pm

  This car gives amazing performance for the price. Quiet, extremely smooth engine and tranny, firm brakes, great ride. It handles like its on rails. Rides/performs like a car costing 5-10 thousand more. For ca. $1800 and a couple bucks more per month on a payment, it is stupid not to get the Grand Touring model. Just the xenon headlights are worth it. Once you have driven a car with xenons, youll think normal headlights are pure junk. The leather, auto-on headlights and wipers are nice too. So get the Grand Touring!! We test drove all the popular cars, Honda, Toyota, Nissan, etc., and none of them held a candle to this car as far as equipment and performance for the price.

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  Mazda 5 - 2006 Mazda Mazda5
  By Fernando Vissepo - January 7 - 4:46 pm

  I only have two complaints. It uses too much gas and the A/C is not powerful enough for the rear. I love everything else about it. It handles and brakes better than any other minivan and better that most cars Ive driven.

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  Love the car so far - 2009 Mazda CX-7
  By vm - January 7 - 4:03 pm

  I recently bough the cx7 and am very happy with it. I really like the steering and the absence of body roll. The acceleration feels comfortable on the highway, but dont expect this to be a sportscar. There is plenty of room in the back for groceries or skis (when the seats are laid back). The rear seats are extremely easy to fold back. I also like the front bucket seats and the leather feels very good. The interior is way better than a Forrester or an accord. The few complaints that I have are fuel economy (for me that doesnt matter since I dont drive a lot). Also the bluetooth is useless. Also sometimes you can feels bumps on the road.

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  Far Out - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Brian - January 7 - 11:43 am

  This car is amazing! For the money, you cant go wrong. It feels, looks, and handles like a car worth much more money. On the test drive I caught myself grinning like a little kid and Im almost 59! My wife likes it two and we are having a ball! Go for it!

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  Mamas Zoom Zoom - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By Brandi - January 7 - 7:00 am

  Its no mini-van but has all of the positives of one. Three rows of seating. Its no truck but tows like one. Its not an SUV but the AWD makes sure you go anywhere you want. Its not really a sports car but is fun to drive like one. Its just a fantastic vehicle that does it all. I didnt lose style, fun or multi-use. Better gas mileage than a truck/suv.

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  Great Car - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By Sam - January 6 - 4:33 am

  Just purchased a week ago and have to say what a great car this really is. Test drove the Pilot, Pathfinder. Highlander but this was the best value and drive for the money, by far. Had a VW Touareg a couple of years ago and feel as safe driving the Mazda as I did my Touareg.