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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  A good value - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Steve - January 15 - 6:00 pm

  I have only has the car a short time, but I am overall impressed. Good features for a compact car. I traded in a 2004 Acura TL because of financial reasons, and dont feel like I have given up a lot. I got the NAVI and Bose. I would like to be able to play MP3 CDs, but got the cassette deck to use an adapter for my iPod. Works fine. Much better utility than the TL. My complaints are lack of dead pedal, mats are lousy, and the brake and accelerator are a bit too close. I find the left side of my right foot hitting the brake when I put my foot on the gas or take it off. My TL had great cupholders (seems silly, but used every day, right?), but these are good too.

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  Best Sedan EVER! - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Eric - January 15 - 3:20 pm

  I wanted to get the V6 model, but couldnt afford it. Even though I had to "settle" for the 4 banger I am very impressed with its performance, gas mileage, and features. My last car was a Mazda MX-6 V6, and this has the same horsepower and performance, with better mileage and better interior. I love the sporty look and looks I get with this car! If you want a huge trunk (big enough to sleep in comfortably!). get the hatch -- you wont be disappointed.

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  BAD BRAKES! 8 ROTOR CHANGES IN 40K MILES - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Paula - January 15 - 10:40 am

  I purchased this car in April of 03, and within 5000 miles, the rotors were shot, The dealership tried to say I drove the car hard. NOT! The next time I brought it in they tried to say dont drive it through a carwash!? That means you cant drive it in the rain! Hello? I had a Mazda Protege before this and the brakes lasted 80K without new pads or even the rotors being turned. It now has 43,500 miles, and I have had 8 (YES 8) rotor changes in 40k miles. They cant seem to fix the brakes. Now the booster pump went bad on the last change, and the booster pump is grinding AGAIN! I guess I got a LEMON! The car has otherwise been okay but the brake problems are frustrating.

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  Youll forget about that weird grille - 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By xyz - January 15 - 10:00 am

  When you drive this car because your own grin and the feel of this car will remind you why you like to drive. 1) yes, the previous speed3s were better looking, but much harsher. 2) the pull from the turbo is great from 3500 to 5500 rpm. 3) torque steer exists, but not much more than a maximas, and can truly add to the fun. 4) well put-together, with great shifting, suspension and steering! Had a Volvo v70r (300 hp turbo) that was super-clunky, expensive, and both raw and numb in comparison. 5) hatchback design is very useful. In conclusion, does this middle-aged guy look a little unconventional driving such a silly looking car? Probably, but what fun, utility, economy, reliability and fun!

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  A nimble athlete - 2010 Mazda RX-8
  By mark - January 15 - 10:00 am

  This car is more rare and more fun to drive than a mustang gt. The mustang has more horsepower but it is not quite as nimble as the rx8 is and this car is even more agile on winding roads than a corvette.This car is almost like a speed bike in its performance and the way it sounds when it accelerates and really gets going.Its a major fun machine to drive everyday.

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  Im lovin it ! - 2010 Mazda Tribute
  By Steve from NJ - January 15 - 10:00 am

  I was looking for a Ford Escape Limited, but couldnt get one when my Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer was due, so I selected a Tribute AWD S Grand Touring. Im very happy after 6K miles - no troubles at all, even towing my boat around. Its comfortable, very responsive, drives well and gets great mileage. Am planning on installing the remote start feature before winter sets it. I added white wall porta walls for my tires, as it looked like it needed something.

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  Bad computer - 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By oldfartfighter - January 15 - 10:00 am

  I love the car, but, my wife will not ride with me any more, the damn car (computer) takes a crap if you park next to or close to overhead power lines. do not trust the car any more, last week we went for a ride to view fall leaves and stopped at a road side tavern for a brew, went to car , it would not allow the "key" to start, after much frustration and calling a tow truck operator, my wife looked at the manual and found that overhead power lines could cause a problem, enlisted some cowboys from tavern and pushed the car about 6 away from the overhead powerline, walah, it started. now will not venture any further than to town 2 miles do not trust the SOB

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  Nice little car to drive - 2011 Mazda Mazda2
  By Bob - January 15 - 10:00 am

  If youre looking for a small car with zip and fuel efficiency, this just might be your car. The interior and exterior design is simple in a good way - minimalist is the word Id choose. The car had all of the creature comforts I wanted without any that I didnt need. If your commute is short and you need a car that doesnt need frequent fill-ups, get a Mazda2.

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  Love LOVE this little car - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By anna - January 15 - 8:30 am

  After reading all the wonderful reviews here. I test drove the mazda3 and it was love at first drive. The little car is wonderful. I traded in a Lincoln navigator and dont feel I made any compromises. I love the interior of the Mazda. It hugs the road and it truly a joy to drive. Thanks to everyone who submitted a review.. I can now zoom zoom.

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  Awesome car for the money, ZOOM-ZOOM! - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By stallionre - January 15 - 2:53 am

  This car is a total ZOOM-ZOOM ride and buy. I test drove many cars and found this one to be the very best for the value and safety. This sedan falls in the class of a higher model, even with heated seats. I am so impressed with all the options, and especailly the look and style of the car. My wife loves the interior of this car, especially at night. Sweet instrumental colors. This car is built well from Japan and is a "J" car. You can not beat the price, options and features. You cant beat the feel, drive and stablity of this Mazda 3 S Grand Touring. I am more than happy with this car. I have added all the accessories that I could get with this car. I have added: bra, wheel locks, 6 CD Bose system, moonroof, all weather floor mats, cargo mat, compass/autodim mirror with Homelink, rear lid spoiler and the cool intake unit.