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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  Fan-freakin-tastic - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Amanda - November 8 - 2:33 pm

  I test drove the Mazda and fell in love. To be fair I drove a civic just to make sure... it was no contest. The Mazda and I just clicked like it was meant to be. Ive had no problems yet, although I thought I had a problem with the clock losing time. Its been ok for a day now so well see.

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  Honest Humble Masterpiece! - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Damian35 - November 8 - 2:50 am

  All in one top car for its class. Power when you need it, MPGs are adequate enough, Stops on a dime, Frontal chassis & great suspension provide a great ride. Interior features only lack cruise control, gps and a drivers seat with height position ajustment but the telescopic steering wheel make up for it. The center arm rest and compartment console position you perfectly and even when the seat quality is less then the top model it extends on its side to hold you in place. The sound system rocks, I especially like the dash design and everything to go with it, fit and finish is perfect. Passenger space is adequate for a car its size and I vehemently disagree with others the truck is big.

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  A real drivers car - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By DaGreatChaz - November 5 - 3:46 pm

  For the money, you wont find a better driving hatchback out there (minus the Mazdaspeed3, GTI, STI, etc. of course). Typical Mazda steering, powerful brakes, and fantastic grip. If the aforementioned are more important to you than mpg, the Maz3 is definitely worth a look. Fuel economy is ok, but certainly not great for a compact, as has been said by many others. Driving from CA to NY (all interstate with speeds around 75-80), I averaged around 30 mpg. A typical tank with mixed city and hwy driving will yield 22-26 mpg. For those who cannot see their gauges in daylight, you need to push that little button on the instrument cluster to alternate your dash lighting - there are two modes

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  ZOOM ZOOM is Correct! - 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By mazdaman2011 - November 5 - 3:53 am

  Traded in my 97 Miata for this MS3 Black Baby...was a bitter sweet trade as the roadster gave years of fun, but wife would not drive it so... Stock MS3 is all that is needed to be sure, but if you need all the "gadgets" go for it in the "Tech Package"! Power, Style, and Driveability in one package, no more need be said other than price is outstanding for what is provided. Compared and test drove regular MAzda 3 and similar vehicles and decided to go for it without hesitation.

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  ZoomZoom This Car is fun in the twisties. - 2014 Mazda CX-5
  By poppabear1 - November 5 - 3:07 am

  We drove a 2013 last year did not like the weak engine. We bought this 2014 GTAWD fully loaded after we were blown away by its handling. This car is just flat fun to drive on twisty roads. Its also good on the highway too. But if you cant get into a MX-5 anymore the CX-5 is the car for you. Its an SUV Miata....

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  best car ive ever owned - 2002 Mazda Tribute
  By moparman15 - November 4 - 10:31 am

  got it in 2002 brand new, drive it everyday since now 100k miles...NOT ONE PROBLEM! the only thing thats been replaced is the battery. This thing can fly never expected it to be so fast. The steering is a little too tight but over all best car ive ever owned.

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  Pimpin in style - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By JR3676 - November 4 - 2:00 am

  This is a great car. There are a few things I have a problem with but I can live with. The engine 3.0 likes to red line first when jumped on so you sort of have to throttle it, if you will. I wish it had auto locks when driving.

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  my P5 - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By Branic77 - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I love this car!! I couldnt be happier with my choice. I was able to get every extra (moon roof, leather seats, all the perks!) and still stay in my price range. It handles like a sports car, and has a lot more zip than I would have expected. I look good in this car!

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  Fun to drive - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By rmcgoun - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I really enjoy driving my protege5.I opted for the standard trans. and the acceleration seems adequate. The car seems to really hug the road in turns. I looked at a lot of cars and this one has the best visbility especially when backing up. When comparing the toyota matrix and the ford focus wagon the protege wins hands down. You get 17in mag. wheels with 4 wheel disc brakes standard on the mazda, costs extra on the toy and ford. The price was much better on the Mazda. If you are looking for a stylish car at a reasonable price check out the protege5

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  Fun to drive - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By boyzmom67 - November 4 - 2:00 am

  We have had no problems with our Protege 5 since purchasing it new for our 17 year old last year.It is a well made car that is fun to drive.