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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  I just love this thing - 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Fred - December 9 - 4:46 am

  I bought this used car with 55k miles for the fun, and it has delivered in spades. Its also surprisingly practical. Decent mileage (27 MPG in normal driving and 30 MPG hwy at 70 MPH), absolutely reliable, comfortable for this 511" 62 year-old. I find that I can transport most anything I want to with a little imagination. Ive added a roll bar and so can even carry lumber in good weather. Overall, its the easiest automotive smile Ive encountered, is relatively inexpensive to purchase and earns its keep as well.

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  Great Van - 2004 Mazda MPV
  By Chris - December 7 - 3:26 pm

  I have over 65k miles on my van now and still love it. Yes the gear shift lever is in a bad place and can easily be knocked out of gear but overall I am greatly satisfied. The only problem we have had so far is the coil packs are prone to go out which can leave you stranded (happened to us). Fits my family of 4 just fine with room in the back for all our stuff.

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  Great Midsize SUv - 2005 Mazda Tribute
  By A Alba - December 7 - 10:10 am

  Well built and fun to drive. Sexy looking design.

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  CX-7 Rocks for 2007 - 2007 Mazda CX-7
  By isaac25 - December 6 - 1:03 pm

  This is the first Mazda I have owned and the third car Ive owned. I was not a fan of Mazda, but after I purchased this car, I am a fan for good. I like my car a lot, I enjoy it. This vehicle is amazing, I plan on adding more performance parts to it. I feel like I am driving a race car.

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  Best in class - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By gokalps - December 6 - 10:00 am

  This car is the best in its category. After an extensive search I decided on this car, and two weeks of ownership proves me right. What an amazing car to drive. It definately feels and drives like a more expensive car. If you are shopping for a civic, corolla, matrix or scion, check this one too. You will love it!!

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  Great all-around car! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By chipfiev - December 6 - 10:00 am

  The Mazda 3s hatchback is the perfect car for this suburbanite. Its quick and fun to drive, yet still gives high 20s gas mileage on my stop-and-go commute. Its very tossable, but still manages to let me haul people and things. The car also just looks great - especially in Winning Blue. And the price - very well equipped for under $20K is a great deal these days.

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  Cool car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By trevorhirst - December 6 - 10:00 am

  This is a sweet little hatchback. Similar in shape to the European Fiat Bravo of a few years back, but very much modernized and beefed up with sharper edges and nice 17" alloys. The interior is pleasingly simple, especially the dash and it is nice to be able to switch off the crazy light show from the stereo. The combination of blue and orange lights on the dials may sound gross, but it looks really good and more importantly is very clear. This car replaced a VW Bug convertible (a lemon) and the difference in quality is immeasurable.

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  I Love This Car! - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Satisfied - December 5 - 4:36 am

  I just bought the Mazda 6i Sports sedan and I have no regrets. I considered a Mazda 3; however, I needed a little more room. The 4 cylinder has plenty of power, and is wonderful on gas. The ride is also incredibly smooth. The interior is roomy, however the car itself is easy to parallel park. If you are looking for a fun car that has a lot of class, this car is for you.

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  The best 7 passenger SUV!! - 2016 Mazda CX-9
  By Ken - December 4 - 3:53 am

  If you do not want to drive Minivan and need 7 passenger car, 2016 CX-9 is one of the best.

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  Sporty Mini Minivan w/Zoom-Zoom appeal! - 2012 Mazda Mazda5
  By mikeyg616 - December 2 - 12:24 pm

  i did so much research on the perfect family hauler without breaking the bank&also not looking like i gave up&was so happy to find the new 5!it has everything i was looking for to transport my family of 4,we chose the upgraded touring model which adds fogs,spoiler side skirts 17 rims nicer grill &leather wheel,power is surprisingly good w/ smooth tranny & good mpg!turning radius is great!the seats are really comfy,the dual slide doors are light and easy to use for wifey w kiddies!pass/cargo room is also more then adequate,this mpv is a hot seller in Europe and only car in its class that got rave reviews..much better ad easier then suv w 3rd row,i highly recommend,we love our 2012 5!