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 buy! - 2008 Mazda Mazda5
  By Mike - May 27 - 6:20 pm

  We bought this car as a family car just a few months ago and we could not be happier! We also looked around for sometime before we decided on the 5.

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  One reliable car - 2001 Mazda 626
  By aaron - May 27 - 2:43 pm

  First off this car will not beat too many vehicles on the road. It will get you where you want to go but speed is not what my car is about. I cant speak for the V6 models but my 4 banger is definitely missing the VROOM VROOM. But I havent had 1 problem with the car yet so its reliability for me is outstanding and gets a 10 thus far. Car has no thrills and is nothing impressive. It just does the job its meant to do and does it well. I think it would be a good car to give to a high school kid or a family. But I wouldnt want to go hit the town in it.

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  The Perfect GUV (golf utility vehicle) - 2005 Mazda MPV
  By retiredgolfer - May 27 - 12:43 pm

  Im retired and the primary use for my vehicle is to take me and my buddies to and from golf. Ive had a pickup for years, but decided I wanted something that would keep the clubs/carts inside and have the capability to carry more than 2 golfers in comfort. Tried several different SUVs and smaller station wagons but none had adequate cargo capacity for my needs. Tried some other minivans but they seemed too big or too pricey. Stumbled on the MPV and found it perfect at the right price!

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  pleasant surprise - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By mph 120 - May 27 - 2:50 am

  Purchased this vehicle without any reviews available. So far pleasantly surprised. With 6 members in our family and several ski trips to Vermont yearly, this vehicle fit the bill. Well designed interior, with large rear doors to easily access third row seating. No OEM roof rack available at time of sale is a major error for an SUV.

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  DO YOUR RESEARCH BEFORE YOU BUY THIS CAR - 2007 Mazda CX-7
  By amylouise2 - May 25 - 4:02 pm

  I bought my 2007 Mazda CX-7 Turbo with AWD a year ago. A few months ago I needed to renew my inspection. I drove down to the dealership to get it inspected, and they told me the codes in the monitors are in readiness mode. My fiance and I took the car out to the highway and all in all, by the time we got back to the dealership, we had been driving for 3 hours. 3 major codes still havent come in yet and I have been taking the car on major trips for the last three months. I have been making sure all of the oil changes and maintenance is done. Still not sure what the issue is. Ive been on the phone with Mazda dealerships and Ive taken it to a few different mechanics and nobody has an answer.

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  2nd review - 2006 Mazda Mazda5
  By Mark - May 25 - 5:23 am

  As far as the front armrest goes I think it shouldve been on the passenger side instead of the driver side because it doesnt make much sense with a stick shift. Cant, really, use it while driving because it blocks the shifter. I understand not having outer armrests for the second row because it would interfere with the sliding doors.

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  Great Standard Options - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By skier - May 25 - 2:00 am

  I have this car about a year and a half and have put a little over 20,00 miles on it. We like snow sports and take long trips almost every weekend. It is comfortable for me and my 62" husband. With the seats down it is very roomy and the uneven split back seat lets you carry people and your skis, boards, etc. The standard options for this car include power windows/locks, a.c., and CD player. I find it very peppy (standard trans) and fun to drive. The interior has held together perfectly considering the use we give it. Gas mieage and acceleration are great for long trips.

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  Must have sport compact car - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By CRSMP5 - May 25 - 2:00 am

  I have had the car for less then 3 months and put 9000 miles on it. I had a V-6 Accord with several aftermarket parts before I bought the P5. The P5 will out-handle the Accord any day of the week. The car is much more stable cornering and gives you confidence entering any corner. The car is under powered, but not terribly slow. Not going to win any drags with this car. The 5-spd revs high and is enjoyable to drive. reat stereo and looks are additional compliments. I have owned Hondas for 10 years now and this was my first Mazda. I am a big fan of the company now and would recommend this over a Civic anyday. Give Mazda a shot - they wont let you down!!

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  protege es - 2003 Mazda Protege
  By toddla - May 25 - 2:00 am

  After owning this car for 3 months, I can say I fall into the majority of owners posted here.I paid 14200 for an ES, 6cd/moonroof including rebate. The car is fun to drive, low on power, but I get 30mpg weekly driving steady 50/55 mph to and from work. Hello Mazda, build the protegespeed for the masses. Hands down styling beats Honda/Toyota etc.

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  Mazda Miata - 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By razzlesue - May 25 - 2:00 am

  Needs highest octane gas or the valves vibrate.