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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  I love this car! - 2002 Mazda Protege5
  By Chris - April 22 - 2:20 am

  What can I say. Ive had the car for two years now and I love it! Many will complain that it doesnt have enough power, however I am satisfied with the 130hp. It out performs anything in its class so what more do you want? This car has a sports car feel while still remaining utilitarian and economical. Mazda got this one right, I cant say the same for its predecessor, the Mazda3. I wont be trading in my Protege5 anytime soon.

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  Not Bad! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By flow_motion - April 21 - 1:07 pm

  I bought a used automatic Mazda 3 Sedan January of last year. It had about 103,000 KM. One year later, its now at 123,000 KMS +... This car rocks! Its been very reliable, has caused me no trouble. The dealership have been extremely curtious, and polite. Ill definitely buy another Mazda! I agree with one person though, the accessories at the dealership are way over priced. Nonetheless, this car definitely packs in the "zoom zoom". The auto transmission shouldve been 5 speed rather then 4. Gas mileage in the city isnt good for a 4 cyl engine. Those are the negs... The pos outweigh the negs 10 fold! Love the red interior lights!

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  Wonderful car, except... - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By T Block - April 21 - 12:46 pm

  it is awful in the snow and on ice. Sporty performance, fun to drive, roomy and a very efficient interior, cool looking dash at night, and I believe one of the best exterior designs on the road regardless of price. I love this car. I know I could get better mileage if I drove it conservatively, but whats the fun in that?

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  Snow whites alright - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By hugdeath - April 21 - 2:00 am

  The fact that u cannot add an aftermarket head unit without a ton of modifications is nuts! The engine sounds really sweet. "NEEDS MORE LOW END TORQUE!!!!! My kick panels continue to come aloose without provocation. I dont care what the reviews say, the back seat is comfy. Im 62", 305 lbs and I dont have a problem. The standard stereo is decent. The steering is pleasant.The suspension gives when pushed but takes a lot to break. I try on a consistent basis. Climate control works fine. Why can a Mazda 3 owner get navigation but I cant get it in the bigger car???? Ive written to Mazda and they basically said , no get over it. Needs more aftermarket support. An absolute steal!

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  Hard to part with, unbeatable car - 2000 Mazda Protege
  By Miatajeff - April 21 - 2:00 am

  My Seventh Mazda, this little ES is a wolf in sheeps clothing. I love the conservative styling, the comfortable interior, the unbeatable handling, the perfect reliability! This car has been outstanding, with nary a problem since new. Cheap to own and to maintain, a joy to drive, I am having a hard time parting with it. I have been looking at new cars and am going to take a step up to a Volvo, but I cant bear to part with my Protege! Suggestions: put Nokian tires on all fours and the cars foul-weather handling improves. The only complaint I can muster is that it is a loud car- lots of raod noise, but that is minor compared to its graces.

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  As Fun as Minivan can get - 2005 Mazda MPV
  By bosnia4him - April 21 - 2:00 am

  Really like driving this car around - it handles very, very well and its even fun (if thats possible with a minivan). Had a transmission TCM issue - not shifting well between 2-3 gears, but dealership reflashed the TCM, all is well now.

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  Reliable, Great Value, Strongly Recommen - 2004 Mazda Tribute
  By miatajeff - April 21 - 2:00 am

  Our 2004 ES 4WD has been a super truck, very reliable, reasonably good mpg (20) for a vehicle this big with this much power. Great value for the money as well, compared to the Grand Cherokee, Subaru, Explorer, etc I am really happy with this vehicle. Has great visibilty and handles very well. Great for people (like me) who need the height of an SUV but still want sporty handling.

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  Love This Car! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By RubyRed8 - April 21 - 2:00 am

  We needed to downsize from a Z71 4wheel drive Suburban. After checking every option imaginable, I saw this car in a parking lot. I began to research options, etc.. We drove it and loved it. Even the teenager likes it. Roomier than most cars in this category. Many options available. Very, VERY happy.

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  solid - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By shaynedog - April 21 - 2:00 am

  i recommend it, my only complaint is that it is a tad noisy, but it is expected w/any car in this class

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  Very nice - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By joe - April 20 - 10:33 pm

  I drive quite a bit a year, I reviewed the 2007 Altima, and the Subaru Legacy. Altogether I found that the Mazda 6 had way more to offer for the money.