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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  A Blast to Drive! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By mdw8019 - September 13 - 10:00 am

  I bought a 6S Sedan with every option except the Luxury pkg. and an automatic. The acceleration is excellent, always power when you need it, no matter what gear youre in. Corners like its on rails! Ride is firm, but comfortable on all types of pavement. Interior is nicely styled. HVAC and Stereo controls are great. Bose 6-disc Changer is well worth it, nobody does it better! Seats are comfortable and supportive on long trips. Im summary, outstanding performance, great ride, comfortable interior, and a sport sedan styled like no other. BUY ONE NOW!

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  Fun, Fun, Fun - 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Roger - September 12 - 5:20 pm

  I have always wanted a Miata and when the new generation came out I figured it was time to compare the 2005 and 2006. I happened to luck into the limited for which I was told were all spoken for. I purchased number 376 and have never regretted buying it! I have 3000 miles on her and have had no problems. Pros: handling, power, quality, trunk space, convertible top, shifter, controls. Cons: seat belt rides against neck, lack of coin storage, useless center cup holders, more sound deadening.

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  Great Car! - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By AUGal - September 12 - 9:56 am

  Have been driving the "3" for 3 months now. We are so impressed with the performance and comfort. Drives like a sports car but feels like a big sedan inside.

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  Highly recommended - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By zoom - September 11 - 4:33 pm

  I purchased my 2005 Mazda 6i sport in August 2005, brand new. Got a great deal on it, and have not regretted it once. I wanted one because of its sporty handling/appearance. I drove an Accord and was bored, then I drove the 6 and I drove it home the next day. I cant wait to see what the 2008 is going to be like. Hopefully at least as sports car like as the curent model. Love it and will buy another.

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  Great car to drive. - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By gorest - September 11 - 3:40 pm

  Performance wise this car has more than enough zip and agility to make any ride to the local grocery store a treat. On the highway the throttle is not as responsive as one might think and the hesitation of the automatic gear box will take a second or two to pick up. The lower profile Michelin tires are comfortable but bumps and ridges in the road can definitely be felt. The interior is probably what turns me on the most with great dashboard controls and information that is very useful. I love the miles remaining on tank display. BSM is a huge plus and a great safety feature. The info button is tough to get to while driving. In all this was one of my favorite decisions in a car.

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  Great Car, Great Price - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By Dano - September 9 - 10:20 pm

  This was a leftover 2006 that we were able to get at $9000 off MSRP. We traded in a 2006 Civic LX that had a lot of 1st year production problems. This car is definitely the class leader in the looks and fun to drive category. The Accord and Camry have low quality interiors and the exteriors do not grab your attention like the MAZDA6. Our cars color is Pebble Ash, a pearlish green/silver. I have noticed these types of colors have mis-matched bumpers on many Acuras, Hondas, Toyotas. The Mazdas is perfect!

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  2004 Mazda 6 GT (V6 3.0L) - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Max - September 9 - 10:43 am

  Bought this car just about 2 weeks ago. As far as I can tell this is an amazing car. Not a single bad word to say! Although its 04 it has only 72K km on it. Looks just like new, not a single scratch. Since its V6 3.0L, you dont even have to press the gas, its ready to take off by itself. I would defenitely recommend it to anyone!

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  Thrills of the new 6 - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By raya - September 7 - 11:13 am

  I made a reservation and was about the buy a civic EX-L a couple of months ago but I decided to wait for the new 6. I havent even considered camcordtima because I find them boring. Its worth the wait as I am always thrilled driving the new 6 everyday. The looks is sporty and gorgeous - the best in its class. Inside has a premium feel - luxurious and comfortable. Albeit the bigger size, the 6 did not lose the great handling that it was known for. I am averaging 23.5 - 24 MPG highway and city driving combined. I think a decent MPG rate on its size. Still have to put some more miles and years to test the reliability. For now, I will continue always looking forward driving my sexy six.

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  WOW - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Chuck B - September 6 - 3:40 pm

  Was sure I was buying the V-6 Accord, but after test driving both, it was no contest. The Mazda 6 has much better handling & power, interior quality & looks. Bose is great, keyless entry & pushbutton ignition cool! Trunk huge as is back seat. Handles like a sports car but ride is soft. 6 cylinder is powerful & quiet. Only have it a few weeks but very happy so far. Averaging 21 mpg in combined driving. Have an 05 Mazda 3 with 45,000 miles with no problems, hope this one is as reliable

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  I love my Miata - 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Cole - September 6 - 3:03 am

  I have to say that in the summer my Miata MX5 is the most wonderful driving experience. However, in the winter time when its raining, I dont feel as safe driving it. With the wide tires it doesnt grip the road as well. The drive with the top down is the best and most fun that Ive ever had in an automobile. It handles on a dime on dry pavement, has an excellent stereo to crank up the tunes and I feel as though I could drive forever in comfort in this car. In the winter time when the pavement is dry and the top is down the heater keeps me warm and I can travel in comfort. My only complaint is that visibility is lessened when the top is up. It is reliable, fun & well worth the price!