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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  Way to go Mazda! - 2009 Mazda Mazda5
  By Mary Pillow - July 21 - 7:33 pm

  I love this vehicle. Great for moms with kids. Lots of space. Great price!

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  Transmission is great - 2002 Mazda Protege
  By Agly - July 21 - 10:00 am

  I have a DX with a stick. Its better than 5sp on first generation Legacy, but worse than that on Civics. Seats are as good as those on Subaru and are WAY better than seats on Civics. Lateral support is okay.

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  Better than average - 2004 Mazda Tribute
  By extragno - July 21 - 10:00 am

  Good overall.

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  very happy with it - 2004 Mazda Tribute
  By lotec - July 21 - 10:00 am

  after looking for a small suv for a while coundnt belive the low price with all the options that came with it

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  Fun, Stylish, and Cheaper than a BMW - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Lots OTestDrives - July 21 - 10:00 am

  I test drove a lot of cars before deciding on the Mazda 3 S - including Imprezas (RS not WRX), Jettas, Altimas, Acura RSX, Civics, and Corollas. It had by far the best combination of style, quality, FUN, and practicality of the cars I drove. The RSX was as fun to drive but not as practical. The Jetta (1.8T)had a little more pep, but didnt handle as well and was missing the quality feel on the inside. The Altima was disappointing - the 5 speed didnt feel solid like the Mazda. Go with the S with 5 speed for the most fun. I actually look forward to driving to work in this car! AC blows cold all the time for me - Im in hot & sunny AZ.

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  Speedy 6 - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By TP - July 20 - 7:40 pm

  I bought my Mazda 6s back with all the goodies except leather which you dont need in AZ back in 10/04. After arguing with the dealer for 2 days I got the deal I wanted. This car definitely drives better then the Accord, Altima and Camry I test drove. I already have 25,000 miles on it.

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  I wish I could say I love the car but... - 2012 Mazda Mazda3
  By jl2157 - July 19 - 10:51 am

  I wanted more than ANYTHING for this car to be the last one I purchased for a while. Fuel economy was great (Avg. 30 MPG City) and its so much fun to drive. Sadly, at around 11K Mi. one of the transmission valves blew. Mazda replaced all the trans. valves without issue. Fuel efficiency dropped to 28 MPG. Then at 19,500 Mi. the transmission gave out entirely. Mazda Roadside was quick to response and the dealer has been excellent. Still, Ive only had the car 2 yrs. and the entire transmission is now being replaced!? This was a $24K car. To say Im very disappointed is an under statement. Sadly, Im now considering trading this in on a more reliable brand once repairs are done.

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  Millie Vanilli Was GREAT! - 2000 Mazda Millenia
  By labholt - July 19 - 10:00 am

  My Millenia, fondly named Millie Vanillie, was a wonderful car. An accident totaled him, but I have to PTL that thanks to his safety features, I felt no impact and suffered no injuries. He was a wonderfully quiet ride, and had great get-up-and-go. I will miss him.

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  I must have bought the lemon - 2001 Mazda Protege
  By FFEJY - July 19 - 10:00 am

  It actually a Protege 5 For the price, its a great deal. However as of 30,00km Ive already had the flywheel and clutch replaced, the suspension sqeeks, tranny really clunks and the seat rails are seized. I think Mazda has the right idea but forgot a few details. Oh ya according to the dealer Im an idiot because there nothing wrong with my Protege 5

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  Zoom-Zoom - 2002 Mazda Protege5
  By Stone - July 19 - 10:00 am

  Price, comfort, looks, ride...what else do you need? Maybe a turbo charger or about 32 more horsepower under the hood. Mazda, also needs to update their choice of speakers, they are terrible. Well, to the good stuff. Brings the fun out of any parking lot or congested traffic. This car drives like a go cart, which adds to your confidence and really brings the child out of you that can get you in trouble at times (Maybe its a good thing that there is not turbo charger under the hood?) Winter is coming, which will test out the car in different driving conditions. The low profile tires look great. Overall great car for under 20 Gs.