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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  Review: - 2000 Mazda 626
  By Shellee - April 8 - 3:16 pm

  I agree, I bought my car just by the look and test drive. I should have known that when I drove off the lot after signing papers something would go wrong. Since March last year I have had my car in the shop about 7 times, all to get the transmission replaced. When I bought the car I did not know about this site. I have finally gotten my car fixed right and its wonderful.

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  No Regrets - 2000 Mazda MPV
  By Jim - April 8 - 9:23 am

  I honestly do not know how other people have so many problems with their MPVs. This van was a demo with 10K and now has 155K. Everything still works like new after 7 yrs, even the CD changer has never jammed. This vehicle has been driven day after day with two kids and was fully put to the test. No major repairs except the trans was replaced under warranty at 75K because the dealer insisted it needed it when brought in for an unrelated noise. Very comfortable vehicle and easy to drive on long trips. Lots of innovative features not available at the time on other models. I could not have asked for a more reliable vehicle. If Mazda still made the MPV we would trade for a new one today.

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  Anyone Else Experiencing Electrical Issues?? - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By jayl2 - April 7 - 3:15 pm

  Purchased the car used from a dealer in January 2008. Within 6 months, started to notice issues with the clock not lighting up. This ultimately progressed to the entire dash not lighting up, or flickering. Now, the radio turns on and off by itself, and is a real nuisance when driving. I was told by the dealer that to correct this problem it will be over $1000. Needless to say, I dont have the money now to do this. Has anyone else experienced this problem? Was there ever a recall on this issue? I couldnt find one. Other than forking over $1000 to get this issue corrected, what has anyone else done to remedy the situation?

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  Best in Class...With Style - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By RuddigerPez - April 7 - 6:16 am

  Checked out a comparable Accord, Camry, and Altima and only the Altima came close to this vehicle. Though the Touring model isnt the top trim for the 6i, its still a feature-laden auto with many amenities that you will find you cant live without. Stability/traction control, trip computer, MP3 capable stereo and advanced key (no key start and door-locks) just to name a few. Handling/engine power is great, road/wind noise is low, and interior and controls are well laid-out. If you dont think the Mazda6 has the features/power/build quality that you are looking for, be prepared to pay $10,000 more to get what you want.

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  1st Time Mazda Owner - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By M. Mable - April 5 - 11:16 pm

  I bought this car used and it had 15k miles on it. Ive owned it now for about 3 weeks and have enjoyed diving it each and every day. My last car was a Volvo that was killing me with repair cost, so Im hoping the Mazda treats me better. Ive had a couple of small issues so far, the worst of which is tire noise. I know theyre performance tires, but I certainly hope I dont have to replace them every 15k miles just to avoid the obnoxious sound Im getting now. Other than that, the car handles great, has great acceleration and looks the bomb! I love the automatic transmission which is smooth and responsive - and I just click over to Tiptronic if I need to drop a gear and pass some grandpa.

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  protege - 1999 Mazda Protege
  By manda - April 5 - 10:00 am

  I love my Protege

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  ZOOM ZOOM - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Eric Peterson - April 5 - 10:00 am

  The RX8 is the car for turning heads. Everyone that comes in contact with this car is facinated with it style and performance. Mazda has done a fine job, even though the RX7 should still be offered.

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  RX8 What a surprise - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By tkemory - April 5 - 10:00 am

  Last summer (July 03) I decided to take a test drive on the RX8 which had just come out. I was currently driving a 99 Corvette but was looking for something a little different. Prior to test driving the RX8 I tried out the 350Z, Infiniti G35 Coupe, and the Honda S2000. The minute I got behind the wheel of the RX8 I knew I loved the car and wanted it. I was sad getting rid of the Vette but I the upkeep of the Vette was becoming a pain and was getting expensive. I was worried at first that the overall experience would wane and that eventually I wouldnt be happy with the RX8 but after a year I still love the car and get constant compliments.

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  get the 5 speed - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By zookarama - April 5 - 10:00 am

  I only have a few hundred miles on the hatdchback so far, but Im very happy with it so far. The power of the 2.3 will certainly surprise you- its very quick. The car is quiet, very smooth running and it handles very well. The ride is what Im used to in my 626- not mushy, and perhaps a bit tight, but thats what I want. The manual trans is a delight. The gears are just where they need to be, ratio- wise, and the shifter is smooth and sure. Seems like the best deal under 20K, and Ive looked at and driven all the competitors these last few months.

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  Sweet Wagon - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By jhgough - April 5 - 10:00 am

  Took delivery of a steel gray Wagon with Luxury Package (black leather), Bose Audio, Moonroof, Sport Package, Side Airbags on 6/22/04. I have the roof side rails and bumper step plate on order at the dealership and will have them install it in a couple of weeks. I traded in a 98 Mustang GT and I have to say that as sad as it was to depart with the mustang the Mazda met and has even exceeded my expectations. This is an excellent vehicle and great value for the money even if you have to have all sort of other items (moonroof, bose audio) in order to get side airbags. Excellent driving characteristics and great space.