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 Great Car So Far - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By Chris - January 16 - 4:23 pm

  Bought the i Touring automatic in July, and have 8500 miles already. The only complaints so far are that acceleration is sluggish with the A/C on, and that the A/C doesnt blow as cold as Im used to. This is a great family hauler with sporty looks; much more masculine than the Accord/Passat/Camry/Sonata bunch. Averaging 27 mpg in mixed driving and 32 in straight highway driving. So far, Im pleased.

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  Hot Sedan - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Coral - January 16 - 9:16 am

  Outstanding sedan; excellent pick-up and hot on the pedal. Sweet spot around 3500-4000 RPM. Nice interior and good amenities. Aftermarket stereo is not an option due to panel design (only drawback). Comfortable ride and fun to drive. Very reliable and solid automobile. Highly recommend this vehicle if youre looking for a sport sedan - many model variations to choose from.

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  Love my zoom zoom - 2002 Mazda Protege5
  By shayshay - January 16 - 1:26 am

  I had to hold out a little while to get my P5 because I wanted the leather interior and tip-tronic shift, but it was worth the wait. I still smile when I look at my car and often get compliments on it. It is a blast to drive and I have yet to have any major problems with it. The interior is comfortable to sit in, cornering is exceptional, and the hatch cover makes a great table to use at tailgate parties! Gas mileage is a bit lower than I anticipated but not bad. The only other dislike is that the paint seems to chip rather easily.

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  THIS IS A GREAT CAR ! - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
  By Mike - January 14 - 10:06 pm

  I test drove this Mazda3 and a 09 Corolla S. I was very disappointed with the Corolla. For about $900 more i got a great handling fun to drive hatchback with a 2.3L engine,5 speed auto w/manual mode,4 wheel disc brakes,DSC, and 17" wheels,crystal pearl white paint to name a few. This car pulls strong through out the whole rev band, and handles like a go cart. I am very satisfied with my purchase so far. Just wish it had a little more cargo room. Kinda tight fit for my golf clubs.

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  Completely Satisfied - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By Mike H. - January 14 - 10:03 pm

  Bought this to replace our 01 Honda CRV. Researched many third row SUVS. Came down to a Yukon or the CX9. My wife liked the CX9 because the ride was so much smoother. Couldnt agree more for once! The CX9 is a great SUV, roomy and well designed interior and sleek exterior. First time Mazda buyer and will definitely consider Mazda the next time.

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  New and fresh indeed - 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Burt Lauderbaugh - January 14 - 11:40 am

  Anyone looking for a special used MX-5 should take the time and effort to find the Shinsen Edition, made only in 2003. It draws many looks and inquiries. Great gas mileage also. Close to 30 mpg with no babying at all. Just pure fun.

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  Nice Little Car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Cate - January 13 - 11:20 am

  Very snappy, fun to drive, easy on the pocketbook with the great gas mileage. Perfect car for the teen to drive around town.

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  I Love My Mazda - 2003 Mazda Protege
  By jesse Zamora - January 13 - 10:00 am

  Mazda is a great car to have and drive i have had 2 mazda proteges and would tell anyone that they are easy to take car of and all around a very nice car

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  Great little car - 2003 Mazda Protege
  By Missy21 - January 13 - 10:00 am

  Great car, comfortable and affordable too. I would definitely reccommend this vechile.

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  z-mazda - 2003 Mazda Protege
  By R. J. Zavodny - January 13 - 10:00 am

  Beyond my expactations. Fabulous