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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  In Sheeps Clothing - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By NH Zoom Zoom - April 13 - 2:00 am

  Just got the S five door, in black! Love it! Mazda was smart to make an affordable auto that includes some great performance elements. What a great mix of fun, sports, nimble driving, and practicality!!! This car is the most nimble car I test drove among the Matrix XRS, Civic, and Jetta GLS w/ sports susspension (yes its true).

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  Mazda 3 Hatch Kicks BMW Butt - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By California Car Boy - April 13 - 2:00 am

  After having an extremely high car payment and maintence bills with my 2000 BMW 32i I, I started shopping for a more reliable car with a lower price- point. I had owned a Mazda before and was at the dealership to look at an RX-8 when I saw this funky, cool Mazda3 5-Door on the lot. I was intrigued. I took it for a spin and was hooked. It has an engine that will move, looks that will turn heads and features that rival the BMW. And it cost about half of what I paid for the BMW four years ago. I walked out of there spending $24K including TTL and got a fantastic car with xenon, navigation, leather and more. Mazda 3 5-Door. A great car--a great value.

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  Nice compromise - 2012 Mazda Mazda3
  By guycan - April 12 - 9:05 pm

  Having owned both a Madza CX 7 (2011) and a Miata (2002) I have nothing but good things to say about the 3 hatchback. It is fun to drive whether on super highways or on country roads with plenty of room in the trunk to boot. It is highly responsive and much quicker than I had anticipated and gets exceptional gas mileage. My spouse who felt the 7 was unwieldy and difficult to park in tight spots is at ease in the 3 which , were boomers, is quite bit more comfortable than the Miata. We have not driven it yet in winter but do not anticipate any problems with icy or snowy conditions with the proper snow tires. Ony negative may be the standard Bridgestone Turanzas which are noisy .

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  Best of the lot - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Second Mazda - April 12 - 8:03 pm

  Looked at all autos in this category, none compared to quality, workmanship and price. You will not be disappointed with this car. Crash tested at the top. Stop looking and buy.Highest horsepower but thought mileage would be better.

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  True Grand Touring - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Rick - April 12 - 4:26 am

  This is my primary business vehicle as a traveling sales manager with a long commute. I purchase a new or almost new car every three years and because of the high mileage and business use I prefer mid-size sedans that dont kill me on depreciation. My 6S satisfies my desire for performance and handling. I opted for the five-speed which I am glad I did because the engine is a bit weak until 2500 rpm then revs smoothly and quickly. Great cruiser, reliable, fun and 23-27 mpg

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  Great Mini Van - 2000 Mazda MPV
  By mdg171 - April 11 - 10:00 am

  Very pleased. Love almost everything about the vehicle. Doesnt seemed underpowered as I have read other reviews. Only complaint is not much leg room in rear seats, but this is a mini van. You wont go wrong with this vehicle. Good gas mileage,not great.

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  I love my Mazda6 Touring, easily best in class. - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By sabbasmas - April 11 - 7:40 am

  I just got my Mazda6 Touring automatic (White ext. and Almond/black leatherette inter.). I traded in my rattle trap 2009 Nissan Altima Coupe for it. I had CVT transmssion and other problems and it dissuaded me from buying Nissans for the future. I have been waiting for the 6 to come out and finally got one last week. I am averaging 33 mpg during this first tank of gas. The interior quality is a full class beyond anything inthis price range and appears on par with the Volkswagen CC or BMW 3 series. The 19 inch wheels and body are sexy and surprisingly, the car still rides very well with such low profile tires. It drives smoothly, but is very aggressive when you want it to be.

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  Madza2004 - 2004 Mazda Tribute
  By AlaskaKurt - April 11 - 3:43 am

  This awd suv is a great little drive. We can drive in snow and ice and it has great traction. Love the dark interior that always goods clean.

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  Air conditioning - 2001 Mazda Tribute
  By hockey2day4u - April 9 - 10:00 am

  Turned on the A/C this weekend and it did not work. Of course,the warranty expired in January. Call the dealer DCH in Maplewood and was told that they are no longer a Mazda dealer. Called another dealer and they said it may be covered under warranty still because I complained last summer that it was not getting cold.

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  Happy - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By tgray_n_tbay - April 9 - 10:00 am

  Great, fun to drive "4-door family sedan".