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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  Bad Transmission at 40,000 - 2008 Mazda Tribute
  By kkout - December 15 - 7:56 pm

  This is my 2nd tribute. 1st had lots of problems dealership gave me a good deal to get a new one. Had no major problems till the transmission went out at 40,000. I just could not believe it. Yes it was covered under the warranty but I still feel that is not the point. I have never had problems with any past car till I bought a MAZDA. Never never again. I will be taking a loss on the vehicle but I will be getting rid of it now. Plus it has a faulty overhead light. Plus the skid protection is horrible. You skid plenty all over the place. And with more then an inch of snow your screwed cause without 4x4 it will not move at all.

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  First New MX-5 Miata, but not first MX-5 - 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By caolsen - December 15 - 12:00 pm

  My experience with Miatas has been racing and autocrossing Spec Miatas. The legendary build quality and sheer tossability of these cars makes them so much fun. The addition of the Power Top finally made this an option as a daily driver with on street parking being my norm. So when it was time for a new car, the MX-5 Miata was it. The car has the same zoom zoom-gist that Ive loved in my other Mazdas. The Suspension package and DSC system on the GT models means that with the addition of snow tires and cheap rims, this will be the daily driver unless the snow is over the lugs. And with the top down and stereo on, you cant beat it for cheap therapy after a long, hard day at work.

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  Gas and Repairs - 2007 Mazda CX-7
  By Lamar Thomas - December 14 - 9:35 pm

  Break pads wear quickly, gas mileage very very poor and requires premium gas, turbo system and transmission unreliable with high repair cost. Often need front alignment. Backup camera view screen are poor. Rear seats uncomfortable. Windows and doors noise.

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  You have to pay to play - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Pepe - December 14 - 11:33 am

  The car is a perfect compromise for someone wanting a light, agile sports car, but still needs some practicality for family or friends. It could have a little more oomph off the line (like the Mustang) but the weight and handling balance would most likely suffer (like the Mustang). I dont know of any car that is easier to drive fast, or combines powerful braking, easy heel-toe shifting, communicative steering and a very friendly (high revs are rewarding not anxiety causing) engine. There may be better cars in any one of the above attributes, but I can only afford one car, and this one is IT.

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  lharsh - 2014 Mazda CX-5
  By lharsh - December 14 - 10:17 am

  I just purchased the 2014 Mazda CX5 Grand Touring and am thoroughly impressed with everything I see. The styling is far above the other similar SUVs of Honda, Subaru, Toyota and Chevrolet. Before buying I looked at each model based on price, styling, gas mileage, specifications and all the standard features of each model. In my opinion, the Mazda came out ahead in all categories. My first tank of gas came in at 27.9 miles per gallon driving a mixture of highway and local miles. I would recommend this SUV to anyone that wants a fun vehicle to drive and still have good gas mileage.

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  Great Design and Fun to Drive - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By FugieNY - December 14 - 2:13 am

  This car has great features and a beautiful exterior and interior design. When compared to Honda or Nissan, the interior quality is about the same or better. It has many standard features like bluetooth, leather, heated seats, rear passenger climate control and an ipod jack. The CX-9 has a nice firm sporty ride, smooth 6spd transmission and a roomy quiet cabin.

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  All Around MPV - 2001 Mazda MPV
  By LionJR - December 13 - 10:00 am

  Very reliable and practical people and cargo mover. It is versatile for carrying passengers and/or all kinds of cargo. Easy to navigate. Its appearance and smaller looking size belies its ability to easily haul it all. Parking is a zip. Does very well in all kinds of weather.

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  beautiful blue - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By jimboo - December 13 - 10:00 am

  I have had the car for two weeks now. What a trip I have never seen so many people stare at a car unless it was a Viper. Handles great, I am always looking for a reason to get in and drive.

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  great car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By sha - December 13 - 10:00 am

  Very fun to drive. Great car for new families. Built in safety for child seat. Sporty on the inside and outside. Great on gas and still has great get up and go.

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  Features without the Price - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By TwoBit - December 13 - 10:00 am

  When I was test driving cars I had never even heard about the Mazda 3. Friend mentioned it, I was trying to be very opened minded when looking for a car. I tested it and fell in love. I love all of the features and price range. My friend has a 2003 Acura TL type S and there were features mine had that he wish his had. Power is good. Good gas milages for the size of the car. I LOVE this car.