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 worthy contender from Mazda - 2014 Mazda Mazda6
  By rickallen - January 10 - 8:35 am

  The new 6 is a strong step forward for Mazda. The design is ambitious, the build technology is advanced, and the features are highly competitive. Even the sport is well-equipped and sturdily built. The doors feel solid and the trim and dash are constructed of high-quality, low-gloss materials. My immediate gripes are not having a good place to rest my left elbow (Im 64" so the seat is far back) a gearbox that up shifts too early, and an elevated level of cabin noise on the highway. I also am skeptical of the mpg claims since my driving so far has produced a 27 mpg average and Ive been trying to maximize. The Diesel engine ought to achieve good numbers, though.

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  My wife likes it - 2002 Mazda MPV
  By hbtexan - January 9 - 8:46 am

  I think Mazda has nailed the minivan design with this product. My wife and I debated an SUV (#1 contender was the 2001 Explorer for value, #2 was the Toyota Highlander but it was too expensive) vs. minivan. We test drove 2 Odys and were very unimpressed w/ them (this was a shock after all of the internet research). To make a long story short my wife thinks the MPV is VERY COOL, in the end for us this was the MPVs strongest feature.

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  Great Car - 2001 Mazda Protege
  By LOUIE - January 9 - 8:06 am

  I love my Protege I bought it for 3500 and it was worth it, I though it would have problems after so many miles but to this date I have only replaced the fan belts. It really could use a 6th gear, but over all I love my car! Great air condition the only little problem it has is where the clock is the numbers fade.

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  Longtime Mazda buyer disappointed - 2003 Mazda MPV
  By 2thebeach - January 9 - 3:13 am

  Have owned seven different Mazdas. All served me well except my 03 MPV ES. Problems are as follows. 41000 miles, recall for fan control module, PCV hose and fuel trim code correction. Also replaced a leaking crank seal. 42500 replaced #6 ignition coil and spark plug. 47500 replaced leaking oil pan gasket and coolant line leading to rear heat/ac. 84000 replaced coils #3 & #5 plus front sway bar links. Other problems during ownership include replacing over half of the exterior bulbs, considerable body rust around rear wheel wells and the paint finish flaking off of the alloy wheels! Sorry Mazda, I dont give second chances now that so many brands both foreign & domestic build quality cars.

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  The Right Choice - 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By John - January 9 - 3:00 am

  We purchased the our Hunter Green PRHT new in March 2009 and we could not be happier. The exterior design is exciting, the interior is clean but not overwhelming and the driving characteristics are just plain fun. Handling is precise and she can turn on a dime and acceleration for a vehicle this size is more than adequate.

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  My most dependable car ever - 2000 Mazda Protege
  By Brian - January 8 - 7:23 pm

  A great little dependable commuter. Ive nothing but good things to say about the Protege. Mine has gone for 8 years and 220,000 miles. The only issues aside from routine maintenance were motor mounts, front wheel cv boots, and a front wheel bearing at approx. 150,000 miles. Considering my purchase price of 11k in 2000 new from the dealer this car cost me just $0.05 per mile. Looking forward to my next Mazda commuter.

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  Part III of My Reviews - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
  By Fun2Driver - January 8 - 6:56 pm

  I decided to write a PartIII to my reviews. PartI compares Maz3 to 2 major competitors. PartII adds more details on Maz3. PartIII will add more comments and answer two critical questions for buyers/owners. Handling is the selling point of Maz3. But on center feel is not as good as German cars. Above 70mph, you better hold onto the steeling wheel tight. The P205/50VR17 stock tires provides adequate grip. But wider tires with directional patterns will sure improve traction more. Understeer is presented in high speed. DSC is not available unless you have the touring model. Zig-zag shifter needs get used to for straight shifter users. Trunk design can be simplified to yield more usable space.

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  Worst-Car Ever Purchased - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By jofried - January 8 - 6:00 am

  Purchased this Mazda brand new. In 4 years, Ive had the radiator replaced, hoses replaced twice, A/C replaced, two recalls,TCM (transmission control module) replaced, spark plug wires replaced, brakes still squeal after replacements, and worst of all was when my throttle body blew at 60mph and shutdown my electrical system as well leaving me to coast with no power. Ive complained to Mazda USA HQ and they did nothing when I requested a free extended warranty. I am now in the market for a new car and will never purchase a Mazda in my entire lifetime.

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  zoon zoom smart - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By momoffive1 - January 8 - 5:12 am

  Just drove home in my new (to me) CX-9. Got an amazing deal from a craigslist ad. Unbelievable car! Not sure I have ever been in such a luxurious vehicle! My whole family fits, all 7 of us, including 3 carseats. I was a little surprised by the small cargo area, I think my husbands Corolla has more room, but you know what? I really dont care! I was going to have to get a roof box for trips, anyway. I cant believe this is a base model! Smooth drive, quiet, roomy 3rd row, nice storage compartments, and my mp3 player plugs right in...great Bose sound! I spent 18K and drove home feeling like a millionaire. You have to see it and drive it to believe it! Happy Mommy!!

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  Great look... Great ride - 2015 Mazda CX-5
  By Donna Mc - January 7 - 9:35 am

  I purchased the pearl white Grand Touring with black leather interior. It is so eye-catching. The ride is quiet and it handles great. Sound system is awesome. The vehicle I bought did not come with the remote start and tech option. I had it added and I am disappointed. I thought I could just push a button and get my car started... its not that easy. First you have to download the app to your smartphone. Then you have to create a username and password. To actually start the car, you go to the app, ... when you finish entering your username and password you log on.. and wait. When you finally get into the Mazda app you then push the start button,.... and wait.... The message claims it can take up to a minute each for these two steps. There is also a panic button, but I cant imagine having to log in when you are in a panic. I would not spend the extra 500+ again. I do love the vehicle and cant wait to see how it rides in the snow. I expect to be a Mazda owner for many years.