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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  Great Car, Great Price - 2003 Mazda Protege
  By Luv my Protege - December 15 - 10:00 am

  I didnt know much about Mazdas until i test drove the Protege. My wife and I loved the car! It felt solid on the road, and the brakes were very smooth. The engine needs a little more snap, but the gas mileage is great. I would certainly suggest one of these cars to a friend.

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  Really pleased with the Tribute - 2004 Mazda Tribute
  By linds263 - December 15 - 10:00 am

  I really like the new Tribute, it is roomy and comfortable, it has a little wind noise but other than that it is wonderful

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  Just as much fun to drive as my Harley - 2003 Mazda Tribute
  By Harley Dude - December 15 - 10:00 am

  Found this little dream by chance and i have to say next to my Harley Davidson this is the best purchase i have ever made for transpertaion. You will never be sorry that you purschased this little Hot Rod. I am 56 years young and have a lot of trucks and this one handles like a Mazda RX8 in some ways. Love it and would buy a new again

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  Amazing - 2003 Mazda Tribute
  By Robert Easterday - December 15 - 10:00 am

  For abd SUV this car drives just like a car without all the hastel of driving a car that is to large. Truly a blessing to drive.

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  zoom zoom - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By john bannon - December 15 - 10:00 am

  lots of fun to drive

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  Fun Fun Fun! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By simtek - December 15 - 10:00 am

  Great handling...smooth and very linear power band, and you can fit luggage in the trunk AND carry 4 people! I feel like a kid!

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  my car - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By military - December 14 - 5:06 pm

  Great car, nice look -- sporty but professional.

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  Best car Ive ever had - 1999 Mazda Protege
  By tamonet - December 13 - 10:00 am

  Bought it new in 2000, only repairs have been new brakes, alternator, battery and rocker arm. Ive only put 90,000 miles on it, luckily, but it just keeps on running. Gas mileage has consistently been 27-28. Its a little loud on the freeway, but not bad for an inexpensive small car. Only disappointment has been the radio.

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  Cool SUV - 2008 Mazda Tribute
  By NFNA - December 13 - 10:00 am

  Had a terrible accident in a sedan that opened my eyes to the fact that you can just kill yourself down on the ground. Switched to Tribute after my car was totaled and have had very good experience with it. They could have used better quality material but I guess then it would have been more expensive. Overall I find it a great deal for the money. There is little noise in the cabin while driving. I get very good gas economy. My advise is to use the plus fuel (mid grade) it gives you far more mileage for the price. I avoid the premium fuel since the car is not designed for it and may damage the engine in the long run.

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  Believe the Hype! - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By Herkdriver - December 12 - 3:06 pm

  Best deal going for the $! Paid $21,900 w/Toyota owner loyalty rebate. Didnt get the tech package but the audio w/std system is great! Single CD is annoying, but BT is awesome. Has built in MP3 plug w/power in center console. Impressed with std opts (dual zone auto A/C, info center w/trip computer, steering wheel cntrls, stainless steel ft pdls). Car is FAST but well behaved on the roads. The turbo kicks in smoothly w/no lag. Downshifts on the highway N/A for passing. Just step on the gas & let the turbo work for you! Tires are VERY loud on the road but grip well in rain. Lights work well at night w/fog opt. Econ-75 mph=27-32 mpg depending upon gradient. Sports car, folks! Not a luxury car.