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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  Best value SUV - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By homer78749 - July 26 - 10:30 pm

  I went into the process with about six SUVs in mind (Q7, X5, Highlander, Enclave, FX35, and the CX-9). I was pretty smitten with the Q7. But Mazda makes it pretty tough because they are just such an exceptional value. I liked the Q7 better, but not $25K better. I test drove the X5 twice. I know its heresy, but I think the CX-9 is a better vehicle. I liked all of the cars I drove pretty well, but Mazda gives you a luxury SUV, top of the line model, outstanding performance and reliability at a great price point. Styling is a personal thing, but behind the Q7 I thought it was the best looking of the bunch.

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  All The Good Stuff - 2008 Mazda Mazda3
  By Fun to Drive - July 26 - 8:00 pm

  We were looking for a new vehicle with good gas mileage that uses regular fuel, has a best of class reliability and some personality! I believe the Mazda3 hits the mark. We have only had the car for about seven weeks. The factory radio had a problem with the volume (the bass would cut out at higher levels). Our dealership checked into a possible software glitch and replaced our radio with a brand new corrected unit. My radio works and sounds great now. This is our very first Mazda and we are looking forward to many happy problem free miles. Driving this car makes me smile. I love my little wagon! To all Mazda3 owners you choose a nice car! Zoom Zoom.

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  Great, Fun, Zoom-Zoom - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By leftcoastfunk - July 26 - 6:30 pm

  The zoom-zoom really comes out in this beast. Coming from a Mazdaspeed 3, I had very low expectations from this monster, but the performance and handling are WAY better than any SUV Ive ever driven or ridden in. Gas mileage is about what can be expected and is actually quite good if you tone it down (only 1 zoom instead of zoom- zoom) and head down the freeway. Fuel tank is a good size for decent miles on the trip meter. Interior finish is super nice with all the amenities. Exterior look is cool, but doesnt stand out-which is probably good. People complain about the ride quality with the 20" wheels but really the suspension is more sport-tuned and the ride really isnt bad.

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  First to own in my area. - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By Kargoth - July 25 - 4:56 pm

  This car was a blast from the get go and I cant even red line it yet. The Touqe starts low and the acceleration is impressive for its size. After test driving the evo I actually choose this model. It felt more stable and was working very well. Smooth shifting. Wish it had a moon roof but I can deal. The interior set up with out the Navi is the way to go. Just adding the satellite pkg later. Plenty of room for you and your friend. 10* better then the WRX, GTI, and RalliArt lancers. The rear of the vehicle is the only part I am a little curious about. I dont prefer the bug look but it works with the overall feel of the vehicle. Test drive one and you will not be disappointed.

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  Head turner - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Rosie Andretti - July 25 - 10:00 am

  Luvin it! Real Head turner. I bought the Blk on Blk. So cool,the Humm it makes on the take off is fun. Smoothest clutch I have driven. Worth the $. Japanese Racing is great! The RX8 is tight. RX8 is hot. Cant open it up yet as I have just put the first 100 mi showing it off. My last car was totalled on the freeway. I feel safe in this one. Highly recommend this car. Very exotic and intimidating. Great in town and freeway car. Easy to park in the parking garage @ work. Comfort is a 10.

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  DGs Review - 2005 Mazda Tribute
  By Kay Green - July 25 - 10:00 am

  Fun to Drive and it handles like a passenger car.

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  Great Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By happyboy - July 25 - 10:00 am

  A thrill to own and drive. Excellent road handling with sports package.

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  Check out Mazda 6 - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By RickNatalello - July 25 - 10:00 am

  I just bought my Mazda 6 less than 2 weeks ago and I love it! I did the research online and drove at least 3 other cars (Nissan,Honda,Chevy) and the Mazda was my favorite. The style is sporty and on the same level as the Altima but at a better price tag. The interior is refined and classy - very well thought out (and not cheap looking). The car handles very well and I saved some cash and bought one with the manual transmission, wife cant drive it (yet) but it is very smooth to operate and I dont have any complaints/doubts about my decision. My advise, look around and drive different cars...but dont forget the Mazda 6!

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  Very fun car - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By chadrawson - July 25 - 10:00 am

  Just purchased a mazda after test driving all other cars like the maxima, focus grand am. Main thing that I like about this car, not only looks good on the outside but has the interior and the balls under the hood to back it up. For example my friend has a camamro z28, raced him and it kept up with him till about 80 then thats where the v8 keeps going, but lets face it, how many times you going to pass someone or go faster than 80?the mazda 3 and its interior and was fun to drive. But it has no thrust when your getting on the road or riding the throttle. Got the Bose stereo has a sub in the trunk included,

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  Happy Owner - 2004 Mazda MPV
  By R Travis - July 25 - 6:43 am

  The vehicle has been a pleasure to own and drive. Its smaller size has proven to be a great asset, both in driving and garaging it. It is very comfortable, fun to drive and the gas mileage is surprisingly good. Its insurance ratings are good too, so the insurance premiums are moderate. It is a well liked and welcome member of our family.