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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  Fun Family Hauler - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By John - April 19 - 2:03 am

  This is an overall great vehicle. Performance-wise it handles like a smaller car, carves through a curvy road like its on rails, engine seems mostly quiet (can barely hear it at idle) and gives off a nice growl with the pedal pushed down. The CX-9 feels sporty both inside and out and has just the right luxury touches. Looked at many competitors: MDX, Acadia, Outlook, Veracruz, etc., and the only one that came close to the feeling of the CX-9 was the MDX; however you would need to spend at least 8-10K more for the same features. I liked the Outlook but the overall driving feeling (Zoom, Zoom) wasnt there like with the CX-9. Performance and value make this car worth buying

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  Great Car, Great Price - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Kyle - April 18 - 9:13 am

  Overall, you cant find a better car for the price, period. The combination of performance, interior design, and aesthetics makes this car extremely desirable. I rigorously examined the Corolla, Civic, and other midsize sedans, and this Mazda tops them all.

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  Road Hugger - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Paul D. - April 17 - 7:46 pm

  This car doesnt seem to lack all that much. Best priced in its class. Ample power from the 2.0 engine. The stiffer suspension allows the car to hug turns in the road like a nothing else Ive driven except a corvette. Fun to drive.Road noise is a bit above average on the highway. Stock Goodyear tires are junk. The wear way to fast and are no good in light snow. MPG is not bad Ive gotten 26 mpg combined many times. Interior is smartly designed and comfortable for a small car. Base sound system sounds good but aftermarket speakers dramatically improves sound. If youre looking for a sport compact without a high price, this is the car.

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  Wannabee mmer - 2002 Mazda Protege5
  By KCW - April 17 - 2:00 am

  Cruise control just went out. Might have been the fuse.

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  Great car... - 2001 Mazda Protege
  By StuttersC - April 15 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car brand new. I havent had any issues with the car. Mazda made a good move in bringing this car to the market which opened the door to the Mazdaspeed brand in the US. The chasis is stiff and can handle just about anything you throw at it.

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  we like our 626 - 1999 Mazda 626
  By C.A.M. - April 15 - 10:00 am

  We are very happy with this used car. It gives no trouble and is quiet. AC and heat are good. Handling excellent for a sedan. Really sticks to the road. Husband wasnt sure about car at first but he really likes it now that we have owned it for 2+ years. We do have to get the AC system worked on next Spring as it quit cooling. we plan to keep this car as long as possible.

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  This is a Mazda? - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By ghostwriter2 - April 15 - 10:00 am

  I saw the Mazda3 when I was test driving a BMW330, and was impressed with its styling. That was nothing compared to when I actually drove the car. This car is awesome all round, and I have only purchased luxury cars in the past! Forget Volvo, Infinity,Lexus, Saab and BMW, if you want the features and driving ability of those others you can have it it all in the Mazda3 -Incredible car for the price!!!

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  Awesome car! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Nickwad - April 15 - 9:06 am

  This is one of the best cars Ive ever owned. Ive owned all of the Japanese brands; this one feels like a European sport sedan. Great handling, build quality and mileage. I average 28 mpg and would probably get 31 mpg if I could keep my foot off of the firewall! Its just fun to drive.

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  Love my M3 - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
  By Ed - April 13 - 9:26 pm

  My Mazda M3 is more than I could ask for in value. As a previous Protege Owner the M3 is great. I am having problems with the clutch pedal position and think other comments about finding the gears is from the pedal being too far forward and you have to lift your from the left side foot rest. I am looking for an alternate pedal or will actually modify it myself. The pedal needs to be further back behind the foot rest so you can pivot with your heal, and not have to lift your foot forward and bring your knee up. That is why people are having a hard time finding the gear because they are clutching the way they should but the throw is off on the pedal/

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  RX8 R3 Best car purchase yet! - 2009 Mazda RX-8
  By LoveMyRX8 - April 13 - 9:20 pm

  I love driving my RX8. True, its not as potent as my Speed3, but it is much more fun to drive. I could never take turns and corners in my Speed3 like I do in my 8. I never got to drive an older model, but the R3 is so incredible at handling, I couldnt imagine a boring drive in any RX8. One thing is for sure, the RX8 is my new choice of car and cant wait to see what other improvements/new models that Mazda will release in the future. Judging by the R3 final product, I know Mazda is headed in the right direction. Lets hope they stay headed that same way.