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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  CamCordTima, Drive one of these! - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By zoomzoomz6 - October 12 - 1:13 pm

  Purchased with 62 miles in 06. Base model for 16,500 otd. Car now has 46k miles, no issues, 33-40mpg on my 5 speed manual. This car is fast, fun, and has a really nice look. Power windows, power locks, keyless entry, cheap insurance, and traction control all standard! I have driven Acura Tls, Honda Accords, Camrys, you name it. If you want to know from a safety standpoint which car is good, try some high speed manuevers. This thing takes a huge beating and still gives me 33mpg average! I cannot recommend it enough. For all those bad reviews with the V6/I4 Automatic, many of them were rentals from Enterprise and were abused so I would not buy it if it was from them.

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  Best Sports Sedan Value - 2005 Mazda Mazda6
  By Mazda 6S Sport Auto - October 12 - 3:30 am

  Ive had Hondas, Toyotas, Nissans and various American cars. This is the best car Ive ever owned. I bought one for my wife too. My Mazda came fully loaded with leather, 6 CD in dash, heated seats, moonroof, wing, ABS and traction control. It is fast, great- looking, deceptively roomy and has a great sound system. The 17" wheels hold the road like a train on a track. The 6 speed auto is a blast to manually shift. I come from the muscle car era and my wife only drives automatics. If you are looking for the best blend of a family car and a sports car at a great price, look no further. The 5 year 50K mile bumper to bumper with free roadside assistance is icing on the cake. Zoom! Zoom!

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  Brand New Off the Truck - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By Al - October 12 - 2:53 am

  Bought the vehicle a week ago. Only a couple of minor issues. The wireless headphones are a little flimsy. I have to get one replaced. People will occasionally hit their head when getting into the front seat. Went from a 2002 Ford Explorer to a 2007 Mazda CX9 w/ tow and entertainment package. Ran just a little over $35,000 for it. Kids love the DVD player and us parents do too. All I here now is laughter out of the back seat. Lots of great comments about the car.

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  Katies Review - 1999 Mazda Protege
  By Katiemarie791 - October 12 - 2:00 am

  Great Car! i am a 17 year old who just needed some wheels to get me to school, work, etc. and the mazda is perfect for me!

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  Love This Car - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By pkw - October 12 - 2:00 am

  Love this car. Had the RX-7 growing up. Now into the new generation. This car was designed for me. Can afford a third car, wanted a sports car, but have a family. I would never get to use a two seater. The suicide rear doors make this a dream come true. My kidds love ridding to school in this and showing off too their friends. I would recomend it highlly. Few minor details that Iwould change...a bit cheese inside glove boxes (plasticy)

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  Outstanding Car! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By jerryf - October 12 - 2:00 am

  I bought the automatic model somewhat reluctantly, but the car will see a lot of in-town traffic. I am not at all disappointed! The car is a blast to drive, and pulls smoothly to the 7500 rpm redline. Handling is awe inspiring, and grip is tenacious. Im 62", and am very comfortable in the car. The back seat isnt imaginary either, humans can actually use it. Styling is head-turning, Ive never gotten more looks. All in all a great car, with only one downside- MILEAGE! If you were unfamiliar, youd swear there was a hole in the gas tank. Its OK in the end though, because youre sure to get a compliment every time you visit the pump.

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  No Brainer-Buy this Car! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Susan - October 11 - 7:03 pm

  Great car. Fun to drive and practical. If you can drive a 5 speed get it! Zoom-Zoom. Also, if you can spring for the leather interior its a lot more comfortable than the cloth. I wanted the Lava Orange, but wound up with 5 speed, Black Mica, leather and moonroof. Im too afraid of 6 airbags to go for the ABS package. The car turns heads and people here in Slower, Lower, Delaware ask "What is that car? So far, so good, nice handling, good looks, regular gas, nice detail, good price. Even the basic package comes with lots of good stuff.

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  All this for less than $25,000?!?!?! - 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
  By dkurtz42 - October 11 - 8:43 am

  Just picked up Black Mica Speed3 with tech package 3 days ago. Paid EXACTLY the price edmunds TMV said I should including Mazdas current $500 incentive. Under $25,000 including tax (traded in a vehicle to offset costs). About 10 seconds into the ride home and I was never quite as confident of making a good decision when purchasing a new car. You literally cannot stop your self from having fun driving this car. So much value for the price. Once on the highway, I could obtain 30-31 mpg running 60mph in 6th. 2 car seats fit ok in the back. I have to slide my seat forward just a bit when my son rides with me. I wouldnt buy this as your primary family car. Overall VERY pleased. Zoom-Zoom.

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  Perfect family car - 2008 Mazda Mazda5
  By Family of 4 - October 11 - 7:46 am

  Excellent Car. Have a family of 4 and needed the extra row in case we drove family and or friends. The kids love the sliding doors, and the storage under the seats. My wife and I love the excellent gas mileage. It is easy to drive - perfect for around town. Turns on a dime and has plenty of zoom. The other night I helped a friend move two couches - no problem with the seats down. Interior space is surprisingly large. With the 3rd row seats up, you have plenty of room for groceries. This car is perfect for a family watching their money.

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  sporty SUV - 2007 Mazda CX-7
  By cliffG - October 10 - 8:30 pm

  The Mazda CX-7 is a sporty SUV. The turbo hesitation in mine is now a thing of the past. Mazda came out with a service bulletin to correct the turbo lag and the check engine light problem. I just got back from the dealer and the turbo lag is gone it is much smoother on acceleration. Too soon to tell about the check engine light but it is supposed to be fixed to. I really enjoy the handling and looks of this vehicle. MPG has been a bit disappointing. Im hoping this turbo recalibration also helps the MPG (avg. about 16 mpg). Overall if you are looking for a sporty SUV This one is definitely one to consider. Also the lease deals have been much better than on the RAV4 or CR-V.