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 Little Car - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By john in whitestone - January 1 - 10:26 pm

  Nice acceleration even with an automatic. Looks great! Turns corners like its on rails and stops on a dime. And its decently priced.

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  I couldnt be happier with my new CX 5! - 2014 Mazda CX-5
  By lizlubee - January 1 - 6:23 pm

  I spent 1 1/2 years researching small SUVs and finally decided to purchase a Mazda CX 5, AWD Grand Touring. I now have just over 1400 miles and can honestly say its all the car the manufacturer claims it is. Its responsive, very comfortable, and good fun to drive. It also has good ground clearance (important for me) and standard blind-spot monitoring (a real plus). My gas mileage is outstanding for a car of this type: 37 mpg (highway), gas tank 1/4 full and 34.5 mpg (highway), gas tank 4/4 full. In the city I get between 27-28 mpg. And these are real numbers not EPA estimates! If youre in the market for a new small SUV you cant go wrong with this car!

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  Mazda3 Sedan - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By vinlander - January 1 - 11:53 am

  I bought my Mazda3i sedan AT two months ago. It performs well, Im only sorry I didnt choose manual transmission as the engine is very lively and car itself is light, so MT may give you better feeling of the car. But the AT performs smooth, is very responsive and very comfortable to ride. Being 62" means many of the cars just wont give you enough space. Only question I may have is the fuel economy. I do 1/2 hwy & 1/2 city with one passenger and after 2500 miles, I got not more than 26 mpg. I thought it would be more savvy on gas consumption.

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  Not very happy - 2003 Mazda MPV
  By Pauline - December 31 - 10:50 pm

  Had to replace 2 coils? # 4 and #6, at 275.00 each time! Brakes went fast and had calibers sticking. Several electronic issues, and some aesthetics like air conditioner flows right into the steering wheel, and it is a weak cool air system. Electric doors dont shut at the most inappropriate times.

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  Brand New - Still Reviewing... - 2010 Mazda Mazda6
  By jumpforjan - December 31 - 4:55 pm

  Just bought this car last night. Ive always loved Mazdas (I had an 89 MX-6, which my mother still drives!). Traded in my Maxima for this slightly-less fancy car, but so far Im pretty pleased. Zippy, corners well, good pick up on the freeway, good sound system (although I do miss my Bose with Sirius XM). Dealership was awesome. Hopefully gas mileage will be better than my Maxima, and that I have it a long time.

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  Wife wanted one for years - 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Mike Ley - December 31 - 11:27 am

  Was looking at these for years and now the new 2016 design pushed us over the edge. More aggressive look that I think looks great. Only had it for a few weeks but loving it so far. Been years since I wanted to just go for a drive. Now I do.

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  Zoomin on Oahu - 2009 Mazda Mazda3
  By Zoomin in Makakilo - December 31 - 11:23 am

  I recently purchased my Mazda3 (5 dr hatch, 5 spd auto - Copper Red Mica) within the last month, after I checked out comparable models like the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic and determined they didnt compare. In my personal opinion neither were anywhere near the Mazda3 in quality of build, handling, response and overall driving satisfaction (definite zoom-zoom factor). The car seems like its rarin to go right now but I want to ease into it and not push it too early. I am getting great mileage so far, especially with gas the way it is, and am very pleased overall. If youre looking for a great compact car with a lot to give - the Mazda3 is the "Ticket".

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  I am in LOVE with this car! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By lepupu - December 31 - 10:00 am

  Have had this car since mid-May and I love it. Lots of trunk and glove compartment space! The car is pretty quick for a 4cyl.

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  Better than the Accord hands down - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By orange73 - December 31 - 10:00 am

  For evreything you get with the 6, it with out a doubt is one of the best values out there. I had an Accord that a traded for my new 6 and the comparisons are not even close. The 6 looks better inside and out and is much more exciting to drive. The horses are a little low but the smooth-fun drive more than make up for the lack of power. This may be the best investment I have made on a vehicle. Bottom line, Mazda has sold me, I will be back for more. Very impressed!

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  My Wifes New Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By hisdad - December 31 - 10:00 am

  Scenario: Our 14 year old son had outgrown the backseat of our 1997 Acura Integra GSR. We needed a mid- sized sedan. My wife prefers to drive a manual transmission and wanted a little zip. Possible Choices:Altima, Passat, 6s. (Accord and Camry did not offer a manual transmission w/V6) Outcome: Although, the 6 does not perform like the Acura, by any means, it suited our needs. Adequate acceleration, excellent handling and braking for a car in this size and price range, sporty appearance, and price (MSRP was $5000 less than comparably equipped Altima or Passat) were the factors in making our final decision. Epilogue: My wife chose to keep her 6s when I