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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  Very Pleased - 2007 Mazda CX-7
  By Joanne - May 11 - 10:13 pm

  I am very pleased with my CX-7. The drive, handling, features, etc. are amazing. I was also in an accident recently, and the CX-7 handled the drivers-side side impact very well (I walked away with NOTHING wrong - I wasnt even sore days later). I was hit by a big work van, and there was $5000 worth of damage to my CX-7. I am beyond pleased with the CX-7 and would recommend it to anyone looking for a new car.

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  Great - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Stark - May 11 - 10:43 am

  I got my car in June and i love it. I would rather not have any other car. My experience with the Mazda6 has been incredible and I expect it to get even better. So if you want a magnificent ride then get a Mazda6.

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  7 month owner - 2010 Mazda CX-7
  By tonyr5 - May 10 - 9:55 pm

  The biggest negatives I can find with the cx7 is the back seat needing more leg room, my a/c isnt the coldest, and when blower is on 3+ it is loud, the ac vents could be a little bigger for more air blow, the black material seats and black thruout the car is very hard to keep clean w/dust particles, and the hard plastic material in the back hatch scratches very easy, and the loud engine when accelerating, head room is a little low, and low ceiling when loading larger items in the back hatch & could use a little more open console room. the pros are it is really comfortable to drive on long trips, turning capablility in a parking spot is awesome, solid ride, decent gas milage on the hwy.

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  A Wonderful Car with Loads of Extras - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By Eugene - May 10 - 4:26 am

  Ive only had my car for a week but so far I am real pleased and have no remorse. It really does feel like a small luxury car with all the features and stylings. I cant wait to drive it when Im sitting at home. I never drove the i version, but the larger engine has lots of zip, no problem passing cars on the road

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  Style & Zoom-Zoom - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By zimboy - May 10 - 1:56 am

  Looked at Honda Accord and Nissan Altima but Mazda6 beat them for style, fun and value. With the S plan and rebates the price i paid was unbeatable. The Mazda6 combines RX8 style and sportiness with refined drive and amazing space. Just too much all-round appeal for me and this in now my 4th Mazda.

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  Zoom Zoom - 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By celica_122 - May 9 - 8:36 pm

  Cup holders are a hassle. Small interior. But I wanted a roadster and got one. The most fun to drive of any car I have driven. Someone traded a BMW Z3 for a Miata the day I was at the dealership, so what does that tell you? This is (in my opinion) the best roadster you can buy. If I get depressed I just go for a ride in my Shinsen!

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  great everything - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By lovethezoom - May 9 - 4:50 am

  This is a car for everyone. Its powerful, fast, comfortable, reliable, and looks absolutely great. I have a 2005 black Mazda 3s with 6 CD player, moonroof, spoiler, and ABS package. This car is amazing.

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  A Japanese "3" series: no big shoes! - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Vincent - May 8 - 7:36 pm

  Perfect car? There is no such thing! But if you are like me who enjoys a fun and nimble car for "daily, all-around" driving, look no further! Very satisfied! As a mechanic I have checked and driven thousands of cars, just dont like leather seats!

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  Taking it all in - 2008 Mazda RX-8
  By OCDaddy1958 - May 8 - 6:23 pm

  To be sure there are many vehicles out there that can provide exhilaration, but perhaps none at this price. I guess I dare not even put out there what I paid for this base model, but lets just say my 401K is still in tact. Something important here about the RX-8: The engine in the base unit is identical to leather upholstered top end unit, and without the constraints of a traction control system. This is sheer joy as you corner like a thoroughbred, for a pony-ride price. I bought this as gas was going through the roof, and made a steal, and now that gas is reasonable, Im having WAY to much fun for my age, but I try to control my enthusiasm when the wife and kids are on board.

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  Best car I have owned - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By Mr. S - May 7 - 10:20 pm

  I have looked at these cars since 2003 when the new model line came out. I am glad I waited this 2006 model is great. Plenty of power for what I need. Plenty of room and what can I say about the looks - wow! I got about everything that can come with it, except leather. Also it has a very comfortable ride for a car of its size.