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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  Love LOVE this little car - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By anna - January 15 - 8:30 am

  After reading all the wonderful reviews here. I test drove the mazda3 and it was love at first drive. The little car is wonderful. I traded in a Lincoln navigator and dont feel I made any compromises. I love the interior of the Mazda. It hugs the road and it truly a joy to drive. Thanks to everyone who submitted a review.. I can now zoom zoom.

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  Awesome car for the money, ZOOM-ZOOM! - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By stallionre - January 15 - 2:53 am

  This car is a total ZOOM-ZOOM ride and buy. I test drove many cars and found this one to be the very best for the value and safety. This sedan falls in the class of a higher model, even with heated seats. I am so impressed with all the options, and especailly the look and style of the car. My wife loves the interior of this car, especially at night. Sweet instrumental colors. This car is built well from Japan and is a "J" car. You can not beat the price, options and features. You cant beat the feel, drive and stablity of this Mazda 3 S Grand Touring. I am more than happy with this car. I have added all the accessories that I could get with this car. I have added: bra, wheel locks, 6 CD Bose system, moonroof, all weather floor mats, cargo mat, compass/autodim mirror with Homelink, rear lid spoiler and the cool intake unit.

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  Stellar - 2007 Mazda CX-7
  By Christopher - January 11 - 7:30 am

  I love this car and feel very safe driving it. The engine, performance, style and agility are impressive. Im glad I bought the 2007 model because the gas mileage is better than the 2009s which take regular fuel. Ive never owned a vehicle that made me excited about driving until I bought my copper red mica CX-7--its a blast to drive.

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  3rd Van I have owned and the best one. - 2004 Mazda MPV
  By patmario - January 11 - 2:00 am

  Wonderful quite and smooth ride. Good overall interior design. Firm, very confortable drivers seat for long rides.

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  Awesome Ride - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Joe B - January 10 - 7:33 pm

  If you want a fun driving experience that has room for the family-- the 6 is your answer -- it steers like a sports car and is tight... Great ride for the money! Try it youll like it ---

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  Initial Impressions vs Expectations - 2007 Mazda Mazda5
  By ayjszeto - January 10 - 5:13 pm

  After 6 weeks of ownership, my impressions confirmed what Consumer Reports said about the Mazda 5 w/Auto. The car rides and drives like a sports wagon with plenty of pick-up when carrying 1-2 passengers. Mazdas build quality, amenities, and overall workmanship are outstanding for such a low priced car (around $19k MSRP). The car has all the features of our much more expensive 2004 RX330 except for leather seats and wood grain inserts. After 1020 miles and several fill-ups, our mileage for mixed driving averaged 23.6 MPG, just as predicted by CU. We replaced the overly tall radio antenna with a shorter one for $10. We do miss having an arm rest for the front passenger.

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  Mazda CX-9 - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By Faye Whiddon - January 10 - 2:36 pm

  I drove 11 competitors. I went back for a second and third trial drive to make sure I was not just dazzled by the nifty style and, for sure, the performance was top notch. I purchased the Touring version. Safety features were a factor. I consider the blue tooth a safety as well as a convenience factor. The third row seating is the most comfortable of all i tested. Grandchildren love the DVD and Bose system. Best auto purchase I ever made.

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  Great Car But... - 1998 Mazda 626
  By Haines - January 10 - 10:00 am

  The 626 four cylinder 5 speed is fun to drive, roomy and good looking.

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  MPV ES - 2002 Mazda MPV
  By edhughes - January 10 - 10:00 am

  Ive had the vehicle for a couple of months now and I could not be happier. It great for the family and a little sportier than the larger vans on the market.

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  Zoomzoom indeed - 2002 Mazda MPV
  By billlmckinley - January 10 - 10:00 am

  Generally spirited, despite its "inferior" engine size. Marvelous handling--more like a touring car than a van. Extremely well laid-out interior, and a price thats unbeatable. A lot of bang for the buck. And the new one, with the larger engine, goes like a bat.