5 Star Reviews for Mazda

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.54/5 Average
10,700 Total Reviews
Make Overview:

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:

Showing 5551 through 5560 of 10,700.00
  • Awesome! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    I have absolutely loved this car! It is fun to drive, pulls uturns on a dime and is so comfortable that 3 people for 15 hours in the car was no problem. I am so happy with this purchase!

  • Best in Class - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    I didnt consider this car until I couldnt get a Civic EX-L with a 5-spd; I sat in a 3 and immediately felt the level of refinement it had over the Honda--yes the "great" Honda. I love this car! It handles well, it rides well, Ive gotten 33 mpg on a 2.5hr trip, and 26 mpg in mixed driving! If youre looking at compacts, youve got to try this one. Cash for clunkers worked for me!

  • Still Zooming after 50k - 2002 Mazda Tribute
    By -

    Some minor problems with rear window seal leaking but the dealership fixed it promptly and it was covered under warranty. The brake master cylinder had a defective cap, that was also fixed. Had a few recalls. Nothing major. Our Tribute is just as quick and tight as it was when we bought it. Still a blast to drive. Its only 2wd but seems to go about anywhere anyways. The only complaint I have is the size of the gas tank and the mileage. The gas tank is only about 15 gal. and seems like were always filling the tank. I suppose the mileage is ok for a small 6 cyl. SUV. We get around 18 or 19 mpg city and around 24 or 25 mpg highway.

  • The total package? - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
    By -

    When i purchased this car i think i went in thinking, wow, this is a mazda, how amazing could it really be? well, i was wrong and this car is everything its said to be and so much more. I have to admit, every single feature in the car functions so efficiently and works so well. I enjoy driving the car, the ride is perfect, the wheels are large enough to take corners with good speed and suspension supports these turns with the wheels and suspension working in supplement to one another. I suggest buying a Mazda, im not sure how other peoples sales experience went but mine wasnt amazing, the salesman was a dunce, and the business guy was pretty rude, but the car makes up for it wholly.

  • Why pay twice the money for a BMW?? - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    I have owned this car for about three weeks now, and it has been an absolute pleasure to own in every way. So much, that, upon comparing it with my friends BMW 328i, I actually preferred my Mazda, because the BMW didnt really offer many things over the Mazda, especially since it cost twice as much. The Mazdas acceleration is a bit (but noticeably) slower than the six- cylinder BMW, but the 170 horsepower four still makes the Mazda plenty quick. However, I found that the 450- plus-pound-lighter Mazda was much more fun to power around corners. The interior actually surpassed the BMWs, with very cool-looking gauges and expensive-looking trim. With a couple reservations, I love my Mazda!

  • 2003 MPV ES - 2003 Mazda MPV
    By -

    I currently work for a multi-brand dealership that carries Ford, Mazda, Isuzu and Hyundai. I reviewed every model in this class of vehicle and found that for the money, I could not a better van with more options. The look and ride of this van almost make you forget you are driving a "mini-van"!

  • Is it a Van? - 2006 Mazda Mazda5
    By -

    We have throughly enjoyed our 5 thus far. It has just enough room and we love the versatile seating. We downsized from an MPV and really enjoy driving the 5 much more than the minivan. MPG could be a little better on the highway, especially for a 4 cylinder but it is acceptable.

  • I am in love!! - 2008 Mazda Mazda5
    By -

    I love this car!! It has every feature you want. I didnt want an suv or mini- van. This car is perfect. It is so much fun to drive. I didnt like the style at first. The car grows on you. All my neighbors compliment the car every time I see them. Its great for a small family. My 2 and half year old loves having his own seat too. The only down fall is my stroller fits on an angle. Also, the automatic car starter from Mazda is awesome. It worth every penny.

  • The Love-to-drive- drivers car!! - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    I test drove other Mazda 3 competitors models (Rabbit, Civic, Cobalt, Focus). None matched the comfort, performance, style or price value of the 3. The cars looks great, has many added features and its not as common as a Civic or Focus. The Mazda provides the best all around package of reliability, easy to find parts, reasonable price, performance and sense of exclusivity. You still dont see that many around.

  • Try To Beat It.! - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
    By -

    If you like sporty cars, you cant beat this one for the money. Blows away all the competition. This is my third Mazda of this type (323, Protege, and now Mazda3). All the performance features (brakes, acceleration, handling) are top-notch. The I-Value package gives you all you need. BMW for a cheaspskate.

Great Deals Near You

    Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

    Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

    Powered By Edmunds

    × Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

    Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

    Send Us Feedback ×


    Locating Vehicles In Your Area