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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  red vet - 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By k9kuz - December 7 - 2:00 am

  Initially ride and handling were quite bad: so 1.reduced tire pressure to 26, 2. added rear sub-frame brace, 3. added front sub-frame brace, 4. got racing wheel alignment. It is now perfect. This is my second, Im waiting for the turbos to come out.

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  Great Little Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By kdibello - December 7 - 2:00 am

  This car smokes the competition (Corolla, Civic). Its tight as a drum and performs very well by any standard especially for an econobox. It is built to a standard you typically find in more expensive cars.

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  My Mazda6 - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Mazda new fan - December 7 - 2:00 am

  I bought my Mazda6 after selling Cadillac Eldorado. Wanted something with Europinian design. Interior and exterior design 10+. Driving is fun. My Cadillac had V8 and now I have V4 i do not regret that I have less HP. For daily work commute it is one of the best cars on the market. Plus, I didnt want to drive what most people drive: Honda Accord, Toyota Camry. My only complain: after 500 miles generator broke. I was upset because this is not what you would expect from the car with only 500 mile on it.

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  Wonderful car - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Dogface - December 7 - 2:00 am

  Picked up a 6s manual fully loaded as a Xmas present to myself after months of research and test drives. I am thouroughly pleased with the cars handling, engine and interior. The rear spoiler is a little disco for me, but didnt want to wait 3 months for one without. The buying experience was good except the haggling over trade in value.

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  My Best Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Louis Fuentes - December 7 - 2:00 am

  This is the best car I ever owned in th last 29 years. I have driven from bmws to vws and this is one great piece of automobile for the money. I gave it excellent ratings because of its style, handling, and performance. Thanks Mazda, Thank you Holman.

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  They just keep getting better! - 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By eaorgon - December 5 - 10:00 am

  In 96 got a black and tan, and fell in love with it. When I sold it recently my wife claimed I almost fell in to a depressed state. Somewhat true, until I got my NEW love - a 02 Titanium SE. Talk about beautfiully done, from the metal flake paint job to the luscious chocolate brown/black interior. Beautiful and a real head turner. And the performance is just as improved.

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  Gotta Love It - 2007 Mazda CX-7
  By Davers - December 4 - 11:46 pm

  Real eye catcher. I get compliments everywhere I go from all ages. The car is sporty yet functional. Lots of get up and go. I love it.

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  Great Buy - 2006 Mazda Mazda5
  By Karen Winters - December 3 - 8:46 am

  I love the way this sport wagon handles. Hugs the road and responds well. I call it my "mini" mini-van.

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  Used - 2002 Mazda MPV
  By rich - December 2 - 4:06 pm

  The car is awesome for me. The interior space with rear seats removed makes this van a winner hauling stuff, camping out or whatever. Its been a very dependable car with plenty of pep and it is really well balanced, even with a full load, the car drives the same!

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  Not as good as toyota - 2012 Mazda Mazda3
  By alex_z - December 2 - 3:35 pm

  Have 5000 miles on it. I like interior, Bluetooth, steering, seats. Now about bad things: suspension sucks. Its o.k. for commuting and thats it. Took it for a long trip once and hate it now. It drives o.k. on a smooth road but once you go on a crappy one, your butt will feel every bump. Another bad thing about this car- its too low. I already hit the bottom a couple of times and now Im very careful. Visibility is o.k. but not as good as Corolla. I took my wifes old corolla for a 2000 miles trip last week, and its day and night in comparison of driving. Yes, Toyota sucks in interior and has only 4 speed auto, but much better in comfort. Take it on a crappy road before you buy it.