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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  So far so good - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Zoom zoom - May 4 - 2:16 am

  I jumped into the need another car category last October, with gasoline taxing the middle class and below. I quietly looked for a late model, used vehicle and drove nearly everything out there. Plenty of used American cars, surprisingly plenty of Toyotas, Honda and Mazda were harder to find. When I drove the 6 its was perfect. Smooth, comfortable, room for my family, 30 mpg, and no up front hybrid cost.

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  Excellent. - 1998 Mazda 626
  By mrwildwood - May 4 - 2:00 am

  I love it. The only quirks it has is the auto tranmission, its alittle jerky untill you get used to how to let off on the gas, but other than that its great. Very smooth, good fit and finish, and one of the best factory sound systems in the industry. The only other thing thing about this car is the oil filter location...why? The instruction manual says to get the oil changed at a dealer because of the "special tool" needed to change it. Again I ask....why?

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  Good Car! - 2000 Mazda Protege
  By Rogue DJ - May 4 - 2:00 am

  Great car! i am glad i baught it! ftom the screaming accelaration to the squealing breaking, I am who car makers fear. If i had the opertunity i would "dog out" a satern! But i havebt, however this car! Mazda is only surpased by subaru and chevy in car building knowlage, they build it to be used! 3 years of abuse and racing have taken litle tole on my car! few modafications that are cheap have turned my car into a street machene. Buy it, , and steer carfuly!!! cuz you are gone!

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  Great Midlife Cure - 2002 Mazda Protege5
  By Wes W - May 4 - 2:00 am

  About 20 years ago I had a 76 Ford Capri from Germany. Havent found anything thats as fun to drive until now. This car holds the road very well and almost seems to dare you to take that turn a little faster. It has cured me need for a motorcycle for now.

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  This is a Japanese BMW - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By MazdaGirl - May 4 - 2:00 am

  This is my 3rd Mazda 1989. My first Mazda I drove to 134,000 without ever changing the gear shift. My second Mazda 2002 to 89,899 miles until I got rear ended on the interstate in her, I sadly gave her in I loved her. Now a used Mazda 3 2007 I-Touring. A writer on this site stated it right. It is like driving a Japanese BMW. Her interior is awesome. The seats are so comfy. I discovered city driving I am getting about 25 miles to the gallon. Highway driving I am unsure of at this point. Mazda brand is good. This car loves to drive but she is a bit sluggish than my old Mazda. It might be because I drove my old Mazda 9 years.

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  ove my third Mazda CX5 - 2017 Mazda CX-5
  By Larry Pepper - May 3 - 5:29 pm

  I love the 2017 CX5 - so many improvements from the 14 including. Much quieter - double pain windows, better handling - flatter cornering, all the latest driver assist, adaptive cruise control, lane departure, BSM, great back up camera

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  Zoom, Zoom, Zoom - 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Former Fiat Lover - May 2 - 11:03 pm

  Wow! Like a motorbike with four wheels. I love this car! I bought a new Fiat Spider in 1980 because I almost froze riding home from the mountains at Banff to Calgary at night. This Miata is to replace the Fiat while I rebuild it. I may never rebuild the Fiat because this Miata is sooo much better in all ways (except maybe the way the cupholder sticks you in the leg). What a blast! The gas mileage is even fairly good at over 30 mpg. I have found the long way home or to where I am going regardless of the cost of gas here in Canada. This roadster is really sooo much better than my Fiat Spider ever was.

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  Great roadster - 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By rick - May 1 - 3:16 pm

  Outstanding roadster that beautifully captures the essence of classic British roadsters of the 50s and 60s without the problems, e.g., oil leaks, Lucas electronics, SU carbs, etc. Great gearbox, 50-50 weight distribution, excellent powerband and amazingly engineer PRHT add up to an unsurpassed roadster experience. Great bargain when compared to much pricier competition. Especially noteworthy is the fact that the retractable hardtop takes up no trunk space, so a set of golf clubs fits in the boot nicely. You really cant ask for a more balanced approach to roadster motoring. A great automobile.

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  Millenia Strong performance/price ration - 2001 Mazda Millenia
  By MilleniaSowner - May 1 - 2:00 am

  The Mazda Millenia offers excellent value for the price. It is comfortable, handles well and has good acceleration. The Miller S engine is very smooth with good top end power. The interior is well designed with easy to read guages and all controls within a comfortable distance to the driver. The seats are a little low but still comfortable even on long trips. Mazda could have designed the interior with more wood grain and higher quality leather to better compare to other luxury cars like Lexus or BMW. Overall I am extremely happy and enjoy the Millenia very much. I have not had one mechanical or quality issue.

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  Problem Free & Blast to Drive - 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Ktoes - May 1 - 2:00 am

  Purchased this car used in 2001 as an anniversary present. My wife & I have never had as much fun driving before this. Engine is tight and cornering is a joy. Short-throw shifter is the best. Most important, I just change oil and go(Synthetic every 7500). Never had a mechanical problem in 2 yrs (70K miles). I am continuely impressed with the body design--a work of art. Be careful not to become a dangerous driver in city traffic due to its acceleration & quick manuevering. Not a bad weather car or for drivers over 6 tall.