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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  very nice mid-size suv - 2006 Mazda Tribute
  By John LeBlanc - September 16 - 5:16 am

  This vehicle has been a very pleasant surprise. I have owned larger suvs and was hesitant about going to a smaller model. The tribute has been more than I expected. The ride has been very nice and the performance has been excellent.

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  3 year love affair - 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Kiko J - September 16 - 2:00 am

  I bought my used Miata 3 years ago and decided not to sell it when I moved from Florida to Michigan. In the snow I had my share of little problems but dringin top-down during spring/summer makes up for it and more. The Miata is an amazing car. Not only is it reliable but has a great design, I like the old box more than the new one but the new one still is cool. No problems except a failure with both the master and slave cylinder with the total cost being $400. For 3 years it aint bad. I am torn between the RX-8 and the Mazdaspeed Miata for my next car; but I can say that Mazda delivers more performance for your buck than any other car manufacturer.

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  Best Vehicle Ive Ever Owned. - 2002 Mazda MPV
  By R. Mosley - September 16 - 2:00 am

  In 2002 it was time to trade in the Aerostar. We drove every model of minivan on the market and never considered this one until I got a recommendation from a relative. The biggest selling point: The fold down in the floor rear seat. At the time only Honda had this feature. The arrogance of Honda dealers turned us off. Our Mazda if a high quality vehicle with excellent overall performance. I would definitely recommend this van over any other models. Good fit and finish and ergonomics.

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  Had to have it - 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By ewag - September 16 - 2:00 am

  This is my second Miata. Had a 2001 that got creamed by an SUV that ran a red light in 2002. The car was destroyed almost beyond recognition. I ended up in a shock trauma unit with a devastating right leg injury that will be with me for the rest of my life. After 13 months I was able to return to work and went right out and brought a new Miata. This sucker is just plain addictive fun.

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  cool - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By pimpsk8rnoh8r - September 16 - 2:00 am

  very cool and very fast but it could be a little faster and morebigger stereo

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  Beautiful - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Love of Cars - September 16 - 2:00 am

  This car is a must for families. I simply love it. I own 4 cars this one is the most reliable.

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  great - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By hockeyplaya1 - September 16 - 2:00 am

  this car is GREAT it has the must have feeling to it and its very fun to drive!

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  This is THE car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Chris111333 - September 16 - 2:00 am

  I have been nothing short of completely satisfied with the 3. It has it all, good looks, available options, comfort, performance, and a good price.

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  Great Vehicle...and we have many - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By lexislady - September 16 - 2:00 am

  Too New to totally evaluate yet but so far is so much fun!!!!! The road can be felt but this is the feeling we wanted. Many thumbs up from other drivers! I know we will not be unhappy as it compares equally to our Honda Civic Ex and Toyata Camry...

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  great car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By ECArebel15 - September 16 - 2:00 am

  I love it, its everything Ive been looking for.