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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  Best sport-compact wagon available - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By magicjnkie - March 5 - 2:00 am

  Simply all out FUN TO DRIVE!! I sampled each of the comparable vehicles:PT Cruiser, Focus & the Matrix/Vibe twins...taking each for an extended test drive...then I made my choice... The Mazda may be just a touch short on power...but the 130 HP it does provide comes on strong & willing & SMOOTH...The steering is absolutely the high point...just point & go...response from the wheel is accurate & firm. The suspension is tight & grippy..this car was made for cornering! What about the price? Mine came loaded with sunroof, chrome alloys & the compass/self dimming mirror.. all for $16,200...try getting all this in a Matrix!!

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  I Love Tribute - 2003 Mazda Tribute
  By Jafar - March 5 - 2:00 am

  Excellent Performance & Design ,Reliability

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  Mazda3 Touring Value Manual 5 speed - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
  By Ronald in Virginia - March 4 - 10:40 pm

  Just bought it. Already put fifty miles on it. I got the manual because it gets better mpg than the auto. I narrowed it down to a Malibu and a Corolla Sport and for the money this is a much better car. I test drove a loaded Corolla Sport and figured the Mazda3 was going to be too small for me but I was wrong and it is a blast to drive! I got the six speaker six CD disc that would cost an extra grand with the Corolla and this car has ABS and traction control. I recommend this car to anyone.

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  Best Car Ive Ever Had - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By bwalk05 - March 4 - 6:43 pm

  Ive only had my Mazda for a little over a month, but it has been a beauty! It gets great gas mileage, nearly 400 miles to the tank. It has superior handling ... it can take on any corner at regular speed. Mine is white, it doesnt show the dirt as much.

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  Japanese Ford - 2002 Mazda Millenia
  By Tyrone - March 4 - 4:13 pm

  No problems since purchase 18 months ago. Only pay for oil and gas. Get 26 mpg usually. In Florida summer drops to 24 with AC on full time. Real nice, you dont pass yourself often. Dont have turbo or supercharger, get it if you can. Just wish I hadnt paid as much at dealership. Not Fair & Square as advertised.

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  Favorite car ever! - 2016 Mazda CX-3
  By Michael Yanke - March 3 - 6:34 pm

  Originally I looked passed the CX-3 because I thought it didnt have enough power. After the salesman had me test drive one I was happily surprised at how peppy it felt. This car is so fun to drive. The handling is fantastic like a little go cart. I live in Minneapolis and had a great opportunity to try it out in the snow. The all wheel drive is amazing. I was able to plow though 6+ inches of snow up steep hills with no problem. If you have kids or need a lot of cargo space you may want to look at he CX-5.

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  great little car - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By Lnmop - March 3 - 10:00 am

  This is a great little car with lots of good features at a good price. I wish that the trunk was a bigger (it is really really tiny) and that the leather was a little nicer, but what can you expect for 17K? The sound system is great and it is really fun to drive!

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  New family car - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Kimberly Thornhill - March 3 - 10:00 am

  I love this vehicle. I have a child on the way, and my husband and I were looking for a family vehicle. I am still young enough that I cant see myself driving a minivan or station wagon or even a full-size car. The Mazda 6 is perfect. It is still sporty yet gives us the room we need will a growing family. Who says moms cant drive cool cars?

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  I love my Mazda CX-7 - 2008 Mazda CX-7
  By hunt5368 - March 3 - 12:06 am

  I bought this car after an accident in my Nissan Murano. The turbo 4-cylinder engine is surprisingly quick and there is no roll when taking turns. I only wish there were more cubbies for the driver. Its roomy enough to take family trips and compact enough for your daily errands. I would definitely recommend the CX-7.

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  Awesome Crossover - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By Tdeann - March 2 - 10:53 pm

  We love our CX-9 GT! We have had it for 2 weeks, and love everything about it! It drives like a sports car, but has all the cargo space of an SUV. The leather seats are very comfortable, and all the controls are easy to use. It has a very high end feel inside, and out! It turns heads everywhere we go!