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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  One of a kind - 2006 Mazda Mazda5
  By dad39 - August 18 - 10:00 pm

  After the birth of our second child we needed more room but not a street-tank. The M5 is in a class of its own. The five speed with a cold-air intake has plenty of power. We generally get 2 MPG over the EPA rating. For what it cost we dont care about the kids trashing it and can still make college fund payments.

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  Zoom Zoom Van - 2002 Mazda MPV
  By wvictory - August 18 - 10:00 am

  1st van we ever owned. Other rides are a Saab Aero and a Land Rover. MPV is fun and sporty enough for everyday use. Love the car-like handling and it has enough power to make the driving fun. Sun roof and working back windows are a plus.

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  mazda has a winner - 2002 Mazda Protege
  By mazman - August 18 - 10:00 am

  my mazda dx protege kicks it, a nice little car that handles really nice. only time will tell if its going to be reliable. I heard of some engine viberations when cold but nothing else negative. if any one has more information please let me know. I have an auto and it does alright.

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  Put This on Your Short List - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By garfield3d - August 18 - 6:34 am

  In short, its a lot of fun to drive. There are definitely other cars that have more power and finer materials. However, youll have to pay more money to reach into that pot of gold. And, regardless of price range, few cars can handle the nimbleness of a Mazda 3. If you dont care about your driving experience, a Civic or a Corolla might be better. But, for anyone who likes to drive for fun, this car should definitely be on your list.

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  My Mazda - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Rebecca - August 17 - 9:00 pm

  I purchased this car last feb because of its affordability, fuel economy, and appearance. I feel that the Mazda3 has exceeded all my expectations in comparison to all the other economy vehicles. Its fast and I dont feel like Im driving a piece of junk.

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  Cx7 gas pig - 2007 Mazda CX-7
  By shawn - August 17 - 3:06 am

  We brought this car in March of 2009 and it had 15,800 miles and it was great at first we drove it to TN and back to Va the whole trip we put regular gas in the car not knowing it took premium gas. After putting 1500 miles on the car the check engine light came on. So we took the car into the dealership to have it looked at and they said the fuel sensor had went bad so they fixed it under the warranty. After that we didnt have to many issues with the car other than the gas mileage stinks and premium gas burns a hole in your pocket. So just a week ago we went and traded it in for a brand new 2010 Mazda 6 i touring plus which is great and takes regular gas which is great love the new 6 alot more

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  I love this car - 2007 Mazda Mazda5
  By jen - August 16 - 9:40 am

  I love this car!!! It is the perfect thing for moms with two children who occasionally need to transport two more. The car itself is fun to drive, drives like a car but has space like a van. It is the best of both worlds and I feel good that it is not a full size minivan.

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  Stylish, fun to drive daily commuter - 1999 Mazda Protege
  By zitro1987 - August 15 - 10:16 pm

  Background: My parents bought the car in 1999 and I got ownership by mid- 2005. The car is still doing well but starting to show its age. Despite being intended as an economical vehicle with great mileage, it looks beautiful in green and has above average handling for its class, making driving a more enjoyable experience. The fun is enhanced by its features such as cruise control. Driving on hilly roads can be a bit of issue due to small engine but it was a needed sacrifice for better mileage. Reliability is rather average as the car needed some costly repairs during these eleven years.

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  Couldnt be any happier - 2008 Mazda Mazda6
  By Brian - August 14 - 11:40 am

  I purchased my 08 Mazda6 GTS within the last few weeks; I took delivery on Saturday 5/3. This car flies down the road without even noticing it. In addition, I tell people it is like you are floating and not even driving cause of how amazing the ride is. On the GT it has the "cockpit red" for all the gauges and readouts which keeps things clear and easy on the eyes, esp at night. The Bose sound system is ridiculous which definitely gets peoples attention when driving with the windows down. The leather seats are very comfortable and you can sit in them for a prolonged time without aching or stiffening up. The HID headlights are awesome for night driving clearly lighting up the road.

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  mazda 3 grand touring 5 door - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By arogin - August 14 - 11:36 am

  great car. every option possible at a great price. the manual transmission is really smooth.