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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  Passengers abuse my door! - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By snowie - September 13 - 12:13 pm

  This luxury crossover needs to be taken more seriously. Perhaps with maybe a Lexus badge... The problem is, it is designed so well that the big doors are effortless to open and close. But passengers think its a truck door... and swing it open with brute force (straining the door stops), and slams the door when they leave! One of them even swung the door right into a shopping cart return cage when I deliberately parked there to avoid other cars opening their doors to it! People just dont realize this is a luxury level crossover. Fuel economy, power and sporty handling is remarkable for something this heavy. I love the car! No complaints, except my passengers!

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  Protege of the Protege, But Better - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By RG59061 - September 13 - 10:00 am

  I just picked up my Black Mica Mazda 3i a few days ago and I have been thoroughly impressed. The 2.0 Liter Duratec 20 gave me exceptional gas mileage and tons of power. Shifting was very smooth and the transmission moved between gears flawlessly. The ride is very smooth for the compact class and steering conveyed only confidence. Inside, the car was built to incredible quality. plastic graining was attractive and subtle. The cloth seats were very supportive and easy to adjust. The 3i is also very ergonomic inside with all controls easy to reach. I must say, this has to be the best car since the 6 and proves that Mazda, is back!

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  its awesome - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By yea_yea - September 13 - 10:00 am

  Let me tell you when I first bought my mazda 6 i thought I was going to hate it and boy was I wrong it drives smooth and runs great thanks mazda. P.S. the reason I thought I was going to hate it is that my very first car was a mazda 626, 1991. And I caught on fire and blew up on I-5

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  My Mazda6 - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Rafael_Garcia - September 13 - 10:00 am

  Lots of ponies under the hood. I love the 17" wheels and the spoiler adds a sporty look to it.

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  A Blast to Drive! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By mdw8019 - September 13 - 10:00 am

  I bought a 6S Sedan with every option except the Luxury pkg. and an automatic. The acceleration is excellent, always power when you need it, no matter what gear youre in. Corners like its on rails! Ride is firm, but comfortable on all types of pavement. Interior is nicely styled. HVAC and Stereo controls are great. Bose 6-disc Changer is well worth it, nobody does it better! Seats are comfortable and supportive on long trips. Im summary, outstanding performance, great ride, comfortable interior, and a sport sedan styled like no other. BUY ONE NOW!

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  Fun, Fun, Fun - 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Roger - September 12 - 5:20 pm

  I have always wanted a Miata and when the new generation came out I figured it was time to compare the 2005 and 2006. I happened to luck into the limited for which I was told were all spoken for. I purchased number 376 and have never regretted buying it! I have 3000 miles on her and have had no problems. Pros: handling, power, quality, trunk space, convertible top, shifter, controls. Cons: seat belt rides against neck, lack of coin storage, useless center cup holders, more sound deadening.

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  Great Car! - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By AUGal - September 12 - 9:56 am

  Have been driving the "3" for 3 months now. We are so impressed with the performance and comfort. Drives like a sports car but feels like a big sedan inside.

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  Highly recommended - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By zoom - September 11 - 4:33 pm

  I purchased my 2005 Mazda 6i sport in August 2005, brand new. Got a great deal on it, and have not regretted it once. I wanted one because of its sporty handling/appearance. I drove an Accord and was bored, then I drove the 6 and I drove it home the next day. I cant wait to see what the 2008 is going to be like. Hopefully at least as sports car like as the curent model. Love it and will buy another.

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  Great car to drive. - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By gorest - September 11 - 3:40 pm

  Performance wise this car has more than enough zip and agility to make any ride to the local grocery store a treat. On the highway the throttle is not as responsive as one might think and the hesitation of the automatic gear box will take a second or two to pick up. The lower profile Michelin tires are comfortable but bumps and ridges in the road can definitely be felt. The interior is probably what turns me on the most with great dashboard controls and information that is very useful. I love the miles remaining on tank display. BSM is a huge plus and a great safety feature. The info button is tough to get to while driving. In all this was one of my favorite decisions in a car.

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  Very Good Choice - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By fordmazda29 - September 10 - 1:08 pm

  I have had this car for a week now and I can say that I really enjoy having this car. I purchased it used for $9k with 82,000 miles on it and this thing is loaded. I love the seats, they are supportive and comfortable. I love the stereo, the bass is good, but not overpowering. The speaker quality (bose) more than makes up for the lack of speakers. The engine makes a good noise, and is pretty quick. It doesnt take much to get this car up to speed. Unfortunately, the transmission is a bit dim-witted and definitely hampers the cars 0-60 time. I reckon that this car will do 0-60 more than a second faster if you went with the manual. Good build quality, good ride, and well equipped.