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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  a lot of trouble - 2001 Mazda Tribute
  By Pat Doke - April 25 - 9:20 pm

  We have had a lot of trouble with our Tribute. Currently, with 50K on it, I have at least one major repair every 3000 miles. Thats more often than an oil change. You name it - power steering, engine idle, stalling, brakes, windshield wipers, tire wear, door handles ($200 each installed) and now a complete wiring harness replacement. The worst vehicle Ive ever owned.

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  In Love - 2001 Mazda Tribute
  By sths0609 - April 25 - 9:03 pm

  Ive been in love with the 2001-2004 Mazda Tributes since they first came out. Finally got to get one about 2 months ago. Bought it with 71,000 miles on it, and 2 months later its got 75,000 miles. Shes fully loaded 6 disc CD and cassette, side air-bags sunroof. Plenty of get up, just wish fuel economy was better.

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  Zoom, Zoom, Zoom - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By adam - April 25 - 8:56 pm

  I researched for several months beginning with a Caliber, then a Vibe, and a Matrix, before I finally found the Mazda 3, which had better reviews than all of these other cars and the Honda as well. I am extremely pleased with my purchase. Mine is True Red with black leather interior and I love it. I was previously driving an Intrepid which I loved. My wife now drives the Intrepid and I am blessed to drive my new Mazda. It drives so much better than the Intrepid (which really does drive well, just not as good as the Mazda) and is very peppy. I would definitely recommend that you buy this car if you are looking for something with good MPG, but also with a little power. I love this car!

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  Best Idea Currently Available - 2006 Mazda Mazda5
  By Mark - April 25 - 7:23 pm

  Historically when a vehicle of this type is available with a stick shift it doesnt sell very well and an automatic becomes the only choice. A Mazda5 with a five speed should not be overlooked. An automatic would take too much fun away from driving this car. I recently had five co-workers in the car and nobody complained of a lack of room in the rear seats or a lack of rear A/C. The car had no problems performing with six adults. Around town or on the road this is the best vehicle Ive ever had. I show 20.5 to 21 MPG locally and 26 to 29 MPG on a long road trip. If thats not enough check out the standard features, power windows, power door locks and cruise to name a few.

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  ZoomZoom - 2007 Mazda CX-7
  By Marie - April 25 - 7:16 pm

  I bought my grand touring a little under a month ago. Its fully loaded and I love every bit of it. Its fun to drive and just as fun to be in the passenger seat playing with the stereo. I wish it came with an iPod adapter built in, but at least I can get one put in.

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  Almost Perfect - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By TheBark - April 25 - 6:30 am

  Fun to drive and I actually fit into it, the RX8 is an almost perfect sports car. There are a few things quality wise that could be improved (why are the visors still an issue going into the fourth production year?), but overall, its a combination of sportiness and practicality, not to mention superb handling, that makes this such a great vehicle. And unlike those hideous Mustangs, you dont see one at every stop-light which is something of a plus, too.

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  Still A Great Little Car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By R. H. Jackson - April 25 - 4:50 am

  I now have 7000 miles on the Mazda 3s Grand Touring and I am very pleased. The options, ride, performance, instrumentation, and handling are outstanding for a car in this price range. I have experienced no problems. I have only been back to the dealer for oil changes and tire rotation. Everyone who sees this car thinks it is a more expensive car than it is.

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  Drive this before buying Camry - 2012 Mazda Mazda6
  By markregel1 - April 24 - 9:23 pm

  To be honest I purchased this over Camry for the cost savings (big discounts) but after driving it for a few days I know I made the right choice. The driving dynamics are vastly superior without giving up anything with regard to comfort. Build quality and refinement are outstanding. If anything it feels tighter and more refined than Camry.

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  More than satisfied - 2006 Mazda MPV
  By more than satisfied - April 24 - 4:30 pm

  Bought this car private party, 2 years old with 9500 miles. Two and a half years later we have 43K miles with absolutely no repairs. Replaced the factory tires with 90K Goodyears and they are fantastic. This car has met or exceeded my expectations in every way.

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  Cool Car with A Few Problems - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By SD in White Plains - April 23 - 10:00 am

  Purchased my 6i in April 2003. One sweet looking car! Exciting handling and fun to drive. However, Ive had an ongoing problem with the rotors -- vibration during braking and at 60+mph speed. Also excessive front brake dust on rims, and clock on dash keeps losing time. In spite of these problems, I still like the car a lot.