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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  It just keesp running!! - 2003 Mazda MPV
  By Randy - February 15 - 3:33 am

  I bought this van brand new. Two deer have totaled out the front quarter, it is a little top heavy and dangerous on water, but for the most part if you put water tires on it that fixes the problem. I am upset that they discontinued the van.

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  Great RX-8 - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By NEM - February 14 - 2:56 pm

  So far love this car. Wonderful handling and cornering, excellent acceleration, reasonably comfortable. Unique engine sound grows on you. Try this car out if you can find one and get ready to enjoy. Not great on fuel mileage, but it is a sports car. It can carry two in the rear seat for at least a couple hour trip, and there is space in the trunk so it is practical. Excellent Bose sound system too. A great combo of practical and performance.

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  Definitely a Drivers Car - 2016 Mazda CX-9
  By drivingLover - February 14 - 7:04 am

  I bought CX-9 a week ago and more than satisfied with it. Searched every model in 7 passenger category including minivan and came down to new Pilot, Sorrento, Q7, X5 and CX-9. As multiple reviewers mention CX-9s third rows not big enough for adults but all of the crossover SUVs in the 7/8 passenger category have same issue. If you want adults in third row, go for minivan or full size SUVs. Also, reviewers mention that CX9 has least cargo capacity but hey how many times one drive with third row up and fully loaded cargo. I picked CX-9 among all cars that I was searched for because its Value for money. I was considering touring model with tech package priced around $40k but got sport trim with heated/powered front seats as it has all features that important to me around $33k (dealership gave me $1900 off MSRP which is remarkable for vehicle this NEW). Some important features Id really liked are brisk acceleration, quietness, LED head/tail lights, three zone climate control and ride quality. There are plenty soft touch material in the cabin where you rest your hand. Headlights are automatic and detect low light situation via a sensor on the windshield and turned ON by itself. Ive a 6 month old and she is more than happy while riding in the CX9. Fuel mileage I got at 25.4 in combine driving so far but one of the highway trip showed 29 in the trip computer. HD radio is good and if you adjust Bass/Treble, sound system works great as CX9 is too quite. Definitely a Drivers car and recommended over other 7 passenger CUVs. "

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  I love my Mazda3! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Carrie - February 13 - 1:23 pm

  This is my first car ever, my grandparents bought it for me for my 16th birthday, and I absolutely love it! I have the i 4dr Sedan in silver with a manual transmission. I have had so much fun in this car that I never want to drive an automatic or anything other than a Mazda ever again! My brother, who is 61, has more legroom in my Mazda3 than he does in his Honda Civic, and the trunk is as big as my dads Toyota Camry. All of my friends are jealous of the interior that lights up in red, and the chic design of it. I havent had a single problem with my Mazda3 (other than stalling out when I was learning how to drive the stick). I named my car Dolce, and it really is very sweet!

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  Love it - 1999 Mazda Protege
  By TX - February 10 - 10:00 am

  Replaced O2 sensor 2 years ago (under warranty). Got new tires at 34000 miles. Oil changes every 3000 miles and that is it. Not bad at all for 63000 miles so far.

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  ZOOM ZOOM - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Shend - February 10 - 10:00 am

  The concept of ZOOM ZOOM is really apart of this car. I lov it, it cool The sport car I can carried my Daughter in Thank for all the fun

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  Update to orig post of 3/19, added info - 2007 Mazda CX-7
  By Jim - February 10 - 6:26 am

  Update to my orig post. After nearly a year of ownership, I still love my CX7! Ive had it all over So.Cal from Yosemite to Mammoth to Big Bear. All my original impressions remain. The AWD works well in snow and rain and the combination of traction control and the excellent ABS brakes provide plenty of security on iffy roads. My only complaint is still that of fuel mileage. I am averaging 15.5mpg around town but on a long trip to Tahoe I managed 22mpg @ avg speed of 75mph. Very respectable. The turbo shines on mountain roads, lotsa scoot! It is important to note whether you have the AWD or FWD model, I suspect that has a lot to do with the large delta in mileage reported here.

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  2001 Mazda MX5 LS - 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By JD Gann - February 10 - 5:36 am

  One of the best, if not the best, cars I have ever owned. Bought in California and driven home to Texas and averaged over 30 MPG at an average speed of about 95 MPH. Most fun of any vehicle I ever drove and is more reliable than any I have owned which have included several sports cars. The only drawback to certain 2001 MX5s is a very slight clutch shudder when first driven on certain mornings. This is no real problem because it disappears after a couple of starts. I have tangled with BMW Z3s, among others, and blew them off in both high speed acceleration and cornering. If I didnt like this one so much I would buy another at the drop of a hat.

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  expectations exceeded - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By ikey1988 - February 9 - 2:32 am

  in the midsize sedan segment, this car is the absolute BEST bang for your buck. I purchased the mazda 6 Sedan, grand touring model, with the I-eloop feature. As far as"fun to drive," mazda is the only way to go. class leading fuel economy with 40mpg hwy and combined 32 mpg. I test drove the Altima, Accord, Sonata, optima, and Passat. Mazda6 is the most refined. interior fit and finish is class leading. styling is exceptional. I cant fathom anyone buying a Camry,(BOX). you owe it to yourself, if your in the market for a family sedan to look at the Mazda product. im glad I dont have to settle for a boring sedan. Mazda got this RIGHT, Sedan Nirvan, I Totally LOVE this Car....!!!!

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  I love it. - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Brian Parker - February 8 - 4:33 pm

  Purchased used w/21K miles, fell in love immediately. Worst fuel mileage 30, best 45 on a leisurely trip on state highways with 60 or lower speed limits. Key to good mileage is to not run the RPMs up in every gear, let the torque work for you. Before you get the impression I am a slow driver, I have had this well over the speed limits plenty of times, I love to let it go, but I also enjoy getting good mileage. Last trip to Florida got me 39mpg average between state highways and interstate up to 72mph. Almost 30K miles so the noisy OEM tires will be replaced with quieter good tires. Yes, a remote trunk opener would be great, but its still one of the better cars I have owned.