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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  My first vehicle purchased - 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By ihanson - July 31 - 8:14 pm

  I flew across country (MN to AZ) to pick up my silver 2001 LS with 17" rims, chrome style bar and leather interior, and most importantly a rust free body. I drove it the 2,000 miles home in February with no issues and it has been a champ back here since then. I had been looking at something fun to drive that didnt need to be that practical since I have a 97 Buick with 200k+ miles thats still running strong to fill in as my winter car. This Miata will take the pressure off the Regal and is WAY more fun to drive. I regularly go on rides purely for pleasure, and blasting the tunes from an iPod through a tape adapter works just fine for those jaunts.

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  A Pleasant Surprise - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By Riffy - July 31 - 4:20 pm

  After being disappointed by the arrival of a few new "super cars", my wife steered me toward Mazda. Not since I drove my first sports car at 18 - a long time ago - have I taken so much to a car. The drive position, steering feel, throttle/steering coordination and world class brakes were all something from the "Sorcerors Apprentice". And the glove box is more the size of a small suitcase; you can actually store stuff. In short, although I was considering Japanese and German sports sedans at almost twice the price, this car put an end to that insanity. Why not spend half the money for same dose of fun - plus the bonus of made in Japan build quality. I did - not so stupid after all.

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  Great but expensive to upkeep! - 2000 Mazda Protege
  By RetroDude - July 31 - 7:20 am

  I love and hate this car. I like the fact that it gives pretty good gas mileage for being a 3-speed auto trans. I also like the design of the car, its got lines and not too "rounded off" which made it unique in its class. What I hate about this car: noise level. You can practically hear almost anything even with the windows shut. The engine noise is almost unbearable especially when driving on the fwy, it tends to rev at an average of around 3,500 RPM/65MPH. Also, maintenance on the car isnt cheap. Parts for Mazdas are the highest compared others. To date, Ive spent more than $3,700 just on routine maintenance - but with 125,000 miles, it still runs like brand new.

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  MP5 - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By TheHylandr - July 31 - 2:00 am

  Phenomenal car, quick, nimble, fun to drive, excellent gas mileage, roomy. Its only fault is being a tad underpowered...but you cant have everything!!! I normally buy a new car every year. Prior to the MP5 I had a Firebird Formula, a Trans Am WS6 and a Ford Lightning. I bought the MP5 as a temporary vehicle because I had a long drive to work (which I dont anymore). After a year and more than 18000 miles, its going to be around for quite awhile longer!!!

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  Noldans review - 2002 Mazda MPV
  By C Noldan - July 31 - 2:00 am

  Mazdas 2002MPV has been a real joy to own. I have never driven a more comfortable (seating) car. It handles as well as or better than any car I have owned. Because of my husbands handicap, I purchased this vehicle (the way the rear seat drops down into the rear well) to store his wheelchair. I certainly will purchase a Mazda the next time around.

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  Awesome - 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Parjuk - July 31 - 2:00 am

  I got in a serious wreck that would have totaled any other car, and just barely hurt mine. The police couldnt believe it, and niether could the body shop. It has 4 wheel disk brakes andis reinforced in the back front and underneath.

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  Atlantic to Pacific - 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Zoomer - July 31 - 2:00 am

  I am 65 wife is 64.We planned a trip to Las Vegas to watch our Son Thunderbird #1 fly his last show. Taking delivery on the Miata we drove to Daytona Beach, Fl. Put the rear wheels in the Atlantic and headed to Ca. where we put the front wheels in the Pacific.The Miata performed excellent at high altitude with steep climbs. On Interstate 40 we set the cruise on 80. We drove in hard rain and rough Interstate. No Leaks, No rattles. We logged 7000 miles in less than 4 weeks. Fuel Consumption 30+mpg. "We love this Car"

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  Too much fun for very little money...... - 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By PinecrestJim - July 31 - 2:00 am

  The Miata is truly a ton (almost literally) of fun at a very affordable price. Driving the car gives me the feeling of being one with the road. The car is the most responsive vehicle Ive ever driven. Although you wont be the winner in any straight-out drag contest, youll lose any competitor in the twisties. Mazda picked the perfect winner with the Mahogany Mica body and Parchment top/interior. This car is truly a charm to own.

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  I love mazda - 2003 Mazda Protege
  By RHagel - July 31 - 2:00 am

  Despite that I am a big fan of mazda, this car is by far the best in its class. Though it is a bit noisy and the suspension is a bit harsh at times, it is incredibly fun to drive and the interior rivals most all competitors. Look for th enew Mazda 3 in dealerships, I have driven one and it is next on my want list.

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  Bliss... - 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By kamea - July 31 - 2:00 am

  I am LOVING my new Miata. I was hesitant at first due to the small size of the cabin, and the 5.1 cubic feet of trunk space, but I didnt use my backseat anyway, so I DONT miss it. The legroom is only slightly less than my last vehicle (Celica), and it handles like a dream....tight steering. Lots of "zoom-zoom". Great car.