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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  My new Millenia - 2002 Mazda Millenia
  By Chris Wood - April 29 - 10:00 am

  We just purchased the vehicle about two weeks ago (6/2002). This is our third Mazda and the best yet. The new styling is very attractive. The fit, feel, and finish of the whole car resembles that of many other more expensive cars. The $5,000 rebate made this car deal extraordinary. Where else can you get all of this for $21,500?

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  I LOVE IT - 2004 Mazda Tribute
  By I love my Mazda - April 29 - 7:33 am

  I love this vehicle and we have put lots of mileage on it, lots of room and very comfortable, handles very nicely on highway with little noise. We drive all over on ATV trails in the bush, on the highway and around town and are extremely happy with out Mazda Tribute. When I decide to trade in I am almost certain to get another Tribute. My only complaint with it is the gas mileage considering the size of this SUV.

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  Great car - 2005 Mazda Tribute
  By zips - April 27 - 10:00 am

  This car is wonderful. I went in to buy a 2004. They were offering great incentives, but they didnt have all the options I wanted. I bought a fully loaded 2005, for just 700 over the 2004 price, which wasnt much over invoice! They want to move cars on the lot. And the Lapis blue color is awsome! Ive already received several comments on the color. My friend has a 2002 Escape, the sister car of the Tribute, and she had had no problems, 35, ooo miles later. And the stereo is just amazing. Buy a Tribute..NOW!

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  Better than expected - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By camp1955 - April 27 - 10:00 am

  This car is fun to drive, steering is respponsive. The 2.3 engine has all the power you need for those on ramp merging. Good feel of control at higher speeds. Havent made it to 115mph reported cutout yet.

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  Formula 1 Economy Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By The Box - April 27 - 10:00 am

  The Mazda 3 is a high priced european car in disguise. The Suspension feels like a Formula 1 car. The car is definently class king.

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  Fun to drive - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Joe Ca - April 27 - 10:00 am

  This car is a true sports sedan. It has ample power and Great Great handling. The 5 speed auto transmission with manual shifting is just more fun. This is the first car the seat adjusts to fit me at 63"

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  The Best Car Ever - 2010 Mazda Mazda5
  By Mommy of 2 - April 25 - 10:20 am

  I got my new mazda5 and is the best purchase ever, my family is normal 2 adults 2 small kids and this van is very good the fuel economy is 30 miles of a gallon my kids get in and out with out help and is very easy to park, enough space for groceries if you are not using the 3 row, and if you using it, still have space for couple things. I recommend this car

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  Worthy of the All the Praise - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Jerry - April 25 - 3:40 am

  Our Mazda3 (S model, nearly all options) has lived up to the hype so far (3,000 miles). This is my (soon-to- be) wifes daily driver and she is constantly speaking of how much fun it is to drive and how many positive remarks she gets from others. The handling is crisp and responsive; the acceleration is better than adequate (some torque-steer present and can bog down at low RPMs). The seating position is a bit higher than Im used to, but you feel well confined. The A-pillar (along windshield) can obstruct views. The trunk is large (and so is the trunk lid). Our car has the 17" wheels and rides on the rough side. In all, an much more rewarding alternative to the typical commuter sedan.

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  Great Car - 2014 Mazda Mazda3
  By mikejohn - April 24 - 12:44 pm

  Replaced my 2010!GTI and I love everything about this car especially Interior, Features, Performance. Awesome to have Sport Mode in this car as well as paddle shifters. Love the Almond Interior.

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  Little car with BIG attitude - 2003 Mazda Protege
  By Mazda Forever - April 24 - 8:06 am

  My Protege is the best little car anyone can have. It is great on fuel. It attracts a lot of attention because of the style and mainly the color because it is Laser Blue Mica. I get offers to buy my car even though it is not for sale. I like the way it rides except for the road noise. I think that has to do with the low profile tire on my car.