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 2007 Mazda 3 i Touring - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Kprice_79 - November 23 - 9:20 pm

  I love this vehicle. I bought mine July of 2007 and absolutely love it. When it is time to trade this one in, I will definitely be getting another Mazda. The only thing I dont like about it, after a certain amount of miles (low mileage) the tires seem to make a loud noise after accelerating to a certain speed and when slowing down. I would also put at trunk release on the keyless entry pad. Would be a great help.

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  Must See - 2007 Mazda CX-7
  By Mike - November 23 - 4:03 pm

  I shopped the Acura RDX, Murano, and 2007 CR-V (through internet). My Grand Touring AWD with Bose blew my mind. My family owns all Hondas, as did I (2004 V6 accord Aoupe). The CX-7 made me change car companies. The value of this truck is unreal and should be considered if you are looking for a mid range SUV. Handling, styling, features, and standard equipment make this a STANDOUT among its competitors. Once you test drive and see this in person, it will alter your shopping list that day.

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  Worried about the gas - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By uzeus2 - November 22 - 12:46 pm

  I love my new CX9 very much, however, I was silly to believe the 18/24 mpg. I have only filled up 2 times, but I am not getting anywhere near that, and that is one reason I leased a V6 from a V8. Other than that I am really happy with the car. Its very smooth. I read all the reviews and agree with the need for automatic door locks, and auto lights off. I drive with babies and a toddler and the fact that the doors do not auto lock is not good. Since its obviously made to be a family car, they should have thought of that. You dont think about that when buying, and its not a big enough reason NOT to get it!! It took me about 3 months of research!

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  2002 Protege ES - 2002 Mazda Protege
  By jwalchan - November 22 - 10:26 am

  Have been a Honda owner for past 4 autos; Mazda seems to be as good if not better

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  no complaints here..... - 2002 Mazda Protege5
  By darthmedic - November 21 - 12:50 pm

  Almost bought a Honda Civic, but being a tall guy I didnt exactly fit. I like the Protege 5 much better, driving style and handling are much more user friendly than the Civic. The shifting is simple, and the drive is smooth. Engine seems to rev at high rpms over 70 mph in 5th gear, but it doesnt even come close to the red line. Just drove in rain today, and it was a carefree drive.

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  Mazda 3 5-door - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By d harvey - November 20 - 7:03 pm

  Great storage space with real sports car feel.

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  Whats up with these tires!!!!!! Help! - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Graciegirl - November 19 - 4:00 am

  I love my Mazda3 hatchback but, I can not seem to keep the tires from "cupping". I am replacing tires about every 25,000 miles, this is getting expensive. My dealer has replaced tires for me twice but, has never actually come up with a solution to the problem.

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  cant go wrong for the money - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By shred - November 18 - 10:00 am

  great looks, handles great and with all the rebates right now I got mine for a steal with everything in it! for the money, its the best car ive looked

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  Hard to beat for the price! - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By MazdaPro5 - November 18 - 10:00 am

  Compare the features with the competition and the decision is obvious.

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  Still Fun - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By laferno - November 18 - 10:00 am

  When I first looked at this car I thought that it was a neat little car, but then I drove it and was pleasently suprised at the performance, cargo room, and comfort that this little big car offered. The car I had before this was a 97 Camaro Z28 with some mods and I was still impressed by the handeling of this little car and all of the stuff you get for a basic model.