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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  Under Valued - 2001 Mazda Millenia
  By rnfis - March 22 - 10:00 am

  I think Mazda should really consider re-making the MMS! Ive ave. btwn 22 and 28mpg. Its grt on the highway and has plnty of pep when you need it. The leather dsnt get too warm when the sun beats on it all day. Recently had the opp to take a long ride w/ 4 adults and 1 child. We had plenty of room inside for of us. Lumbar sppt is a nice add on during long trips. I dont inticipate using the seat wrmers too much here in So. Cal. but the car is complete to say the least. Yes it would be nice to have a navigation system but for those on the go, Garmin 2620 is far better than factory installed ones Ive come accross and cost much less.

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  hot lil car! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Tony DB - March 22 - 10:00 am

  great performance.....only drawback is lack of storage in trunk with spare tire in there.

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  Mickeys - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Mickey Terry - March 22 - 10:00 am

  My new RX-8 is a blast to drive. It handles like no other car Ive ever driven. Driving curvey roads has never been so much fun.

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  The experience - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Kodiak_sniper - March 22 - 10:00 am

  Car handles/feels the same at 80 as 55 in slow traffic < 20mph you can here emgine fan turns on and off. stearing wheel does not telescope far enough for longer legged drivers. In tight curves at higher speeds on rough road, front tires feel like they are bouncing off the road like quick small finger tapping. Engine feels like its dragging at lower speeds < 35mph

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  Buy this car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By cliffordsnd009 - March 22 - 10:00 am

  I think mazda finally got it right.The styling is off the hook. I get so much attention with the velocity red which looks like a candy red when the sun hits it. The hids are great but not as colorful as I would like but overall,its a great car. I got mine with all the options except for navigation.I dont need it since I plan to put an aftermarket one in soon as a kit becomes available. I have 3 words to say. GET THIS CAR. CIVICS WATCH OUT

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  A wonderful small SUV - 2014 Mazda CX-5
  By gc666 - March 22 - 9:23 am

  originally looking at CX9. Dealer said best hoped for mileage would be 22-24. Needed better. Bought this 2014 as a certified preowned, 6 mos old, 11000 miles. it is the Grand Touring with 2.5 engine. plenty of power, smooth running, smooth shifting, and best of all great mileage. I was used to a tdi Jetta getting 49 mph. Mazda estimates this engine at 30 combined and 35 highway. that is exactly what I am getting; and actually closer to 36. I couldnt be happier. Interior room much larger than I had expected. I can carry 4 golf bags and their owners with comfort.

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  I love this car. - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By fumarola - March 22 - 1:20 am

  Im an 18 year old that just graduated high school, and im in the military. I purchased this car loving it at first sight. I got it for a great deal. Yes i paid for it, its in my name not my parents. I get about 24-25 highway 18-20 city. I shift between 3-4 but i heard its good to be hard once in awhile so ill take it up to 6-7.Premium gas (93 octane) always. Also good to rev to 3 before shutting down. Also i warm it up for 1-2 mins and hold it at 3 for 5 seconds. Its a great car, lots of fun.

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  The Funnnnest 7 Passenger Vehicle Ever! - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By AL - March 21 - 9:00 pm

  My new Mazda is the coolest car in the entire world. It is really fun to drive and my kids love the rear entertainment center. My husband loves the Bose Audio Package. This Mazda sits up a bit and has a really aggressive tone to the exhaust system. The navigation system is really practical and easy to use. Basically, everyone that has seen this car is amazed with the practical design and comfort that this new Mazda provides. I think the turning signals in the side mirrors provide for a modern look. I noticed an eighteen-wheeler on the interstate the other night moved over and let me in when I displayed my turning signal. That has never happened to me before and it felt really good.

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  2001 Protege ES - 2001 Mazda Protege
  By Somsun - March 20 - 10:00 am

  I recently purchased a 2001 Protege ES via private sale with 24k miles. I know from experience that Mazdas just go and go. I owned a 1987 323 and as a second owner, it carried me well into the 200,000 mile stretch. I love the styling most of all about the 01 Protege ES. I look out at it in my driveway and smile; I like it so much! I love the interior styling and roominess of the ES. I drove a few co- workers and myself to lunch today and they commented how much leg room there was in the back seat. I like the spoiler because it helps me gauge where I am when backing out or into a parking space. Overall, for the quality and price it cant be beat.

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  Zooom Zoooom Zoooom Aperautanauoo (sp?) - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By TominSF - March 20 - 10:00 am

  Best car Ive owned (esp compared to the Jetta). I live in San Francisco and I feel like Im in a commercial everyday zooming around the hills.