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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  Wouldnt be without my Zoom Zoom - 2002 Mazda MPV
  By Dwadon - January 13 - 4:20 pm

  Awesome van. Owned a Chevy Montana prior to my MPV and have never looked back. Have 2 teens & 2 dogs and this van suits us just fine - gas mileage reasonable as well.

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  Love it! - 2006 Mazda MPV
  By rgattic - January 13 - 2:13 pm

  By far the best looking and most fun to drive minivan. Great for road trips too. Surprising amount of features and storage for small nimble size.

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  Great car - 2006 Mazda Mazda5
  By Rick - January 12 - 7:50 pm

  We searched high and low for a car for a family of 4, with good gas mileage, around $20k, sporty, lots of room and/or a 3rd row using regular unleaded. Sorry, it just didnt happen. The 5 comes with Navigation for $20k automatic and gets 25 mpg or so! I came from a Jetta so materials and final touches arent as top notch on the 5, but Id place it right behind Toyota and above Nissan. Its a GREAT value car. Lots of storage, but lacks some practical storage. Not a lot of options for the US, but overall its so fun to drive. We get looks all the time. Unfortunately, the model is new so I estimate a few features were left off for cost reasons and to see if it had a market.

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  ZOOM ...ZOOM - 2005 Mazda Tribute
  By Jame - January 12 - 7:30 am

  This Mini SUV has been a real pleasure to own! Before this vehicle, I had a 97 Ford Thunderbird, that I didnt really want to give up. But we needed something more suitable on gas, growing boys and a dog. We drove the Tribute from Florida, up to Mass, and the gas mileage was excellent. It handles great in the different climates, from rain to snow covered roads. I have two very energetic sons, and this SUV has been a huge plus in our active lives. For not purchasing a Lexus, or Mercedes SUV, I couldnt be happier so far!

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  Wow! Im in the cutest car on the road! - 2009 Mazda Mazda5
  By Joni - January 11 - 11:36 pm

  I have only owned my "5" for a few weeks but I am in love with this cute thing!! I have always enjoyed driving but now I want to drive all day long. I have only seen 2 others on the road... what is everyone waiting for? It is so easy to get in and out of and I love all the features especially the dash and all the bright, easy-to-read displays. The 6-CD changer is a bonus that I am really enjoying, no more boring radio! I find myself looking around to see if people are watching my car! I drove the Mitsubishi Lancer, the Nissan Versa, the Chevy HHR and just stumbled across the "5"... best fall I ever took! Gotta go drive... bye!

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  Great Car - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By drseid - January 10 - 10:00 am

  While the AT might not have as much HP as the MT, it sure seems like plenty for most driving in my book. The rotary engine is super smooth, and the car has a unique whine to it that really is a joy to listen to. Front seats are fabulous and provide excellent support for even spirited driving. Control placement is also quite good, and interior materials are first rate for this kind of car. If you havent guessed by now, I love the car!

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  I Love This car, and so will you. - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Marx8 - January 10 - 10:00 am

  I pre-ordered this car in Jan of 2003. Ive owned it since July 2003. This is an awesome car, and it amazes me how much I still enjoy having and driving it. You cannot beat it for the price. If your a parent with a couple of kids its great. The fact that you can have a sports car, and have room for 4 full size adults amazes me. I could make a long list of all the things thats so great about this car but, it wouldnt fit in the review. If your serious about this car. Do a search and read the message boards. Im going to be owning this car for a long time. I cant think of another car I would want.

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  Rotary fun - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By RochesterX8 - January 10 - 10:00 am

  I have 4k on my Rx8. Love every minute except a particularly nasty March snowstorm here in Rochester NY. get snows or a winter beater! I get looks from everyone from teens to grandpa. Most dont know what it is but like it. I have only seen 3 others in 9 mo. (course 6mo of winter might have contributed!)so it is a special car. I see more TTs and 350zs. It isnt a total rocket but still quite fast and handles as well as my Miata did. Plus my kids (12 & 9) fit and love it! Mileage sucks!

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  Northof50 - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Northof50 - January 10 - 10:00 am

  This car reminds me of the BMW2002 when it came out x years ago. Modern, stylish, latest tech, ex. performance, reliability, economy. 90% of you have no clue what I mean. Anyway, the only other seriously considered was a VW Jetta, but it was 2.5K more; only 115 hp, made in Mexico and plain looks dated. Corolla too dull; Honda same- same; Nissan not in the game at this price.

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  My Mazda 3 - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By PinkieDAE - January 10 - 10:00 am

  I love my car. Its white with a spoiler and a sports package is a must. Bigger rims make the difference. Its so reliable and good for gas! Rated number 9 by Edmonds. No one has it yet, so I dont feel like I own a civic & 900 others do too! Being orginal is better.