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:

• 

  I Love My 3 GT Hatch! - 2007 Mazda Mazda3
  By jlc0005 - March 7 - 8:40 pm

  I debated for over a year before I finally bought one and I couldnt be happier. I bought it in November, but only started driving it regularly after selling my old car about 2 months ago. So far, its been a great little car. Its an Aurora Blue GT loaded with Bose, moonroof, 6CD, 5-spd AT, and Homelink autodim mirror. I so look forward to driving my car, even though gas prices are outrageous.

• 

  I LOVE IT! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Ashley R. - March 7 - 6:46 pm

  Ive had my car for a few years now and can say that Im very satisfied, I get so many comments on the car cause it looks like something that would cost a lot more then it actually dose. I get great gas mileage I get about 28.5 mpg. The car handles like a go kart, and has the looks to back it up.

• 

  In love with this car!! - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By josh259 - March 7 - 5:03 pm

  I absolutely love this car. It handles great, its nice and compact but still has plenty of room, its stylish, quick, and gets pretty good gas mileage which is great since I travely about 300 miles per week just going to and from work.

• 

  Straight "10s" - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Brian - March 7 - 9:06 am

  Having checked out all the obvious competition, we felt we had to compare the Mazda6 to something better as it beat all the regulars. We liked the styling of the 2009 Lexus IS250 a lot and did a side by side comparison. The bottom line: a loaded 6 versus a loaded IS250 was $7800 less even after getting a deal offer on the Lexus. The IS still didnt have all the features available with the 6. The choice was simple then. Driving the car shows that the Zoom Zoom hasnt been lost. It is just fun to drive, gets good gas mileage and has all the toys you would ever want in a car. The proof is in the drive. Dont buy a car without test driving the 6. It drove better than the IS and we are thrilled.

• 

  Good but not great - 2011 Mazda Mazda3
  By lisal79 - March 5 - 11:56 am

  We recently bought a Mazda 3 right before Christmas. My husband and I both just loved the way it looked and drove. We didnt even notice the goofy grin, and even noticing now, I think its cute. I do wish that the car got better gas mileage. Right now were getting about 25mpg which isnt great. That is one of my regrets with purchasing this car considering that gas prices are starting to rise again.

• 

  Finally a car I like. - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Detroit Made - March 5 - 8:06 am

  I just bought the car and I couldnt be happier. I took it for a test drive in a West Michigan snow storm and it walked though the snow (The Wrangler that was traded in for it was in 4x4 and sliding). I was planning on purchasing a MKZ until I sat in the Mazda6. Hands down and $ for $ the 6 beat out Lincoln. Best choice I have ever made.

• 

  very pleased customer - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By smackiewic - March 5 - 2:00 am

  over all the mazda6 is one of the finest cars ive ever owned. it drives very well. at first i was debating on getting the car, but now i am glad i did. my wife enjoys the way the car rides. the comfort and style are amazing for a mid size car. i have recommened to my friends that are looking for a mid sized car that delivers all that it advertises. this is with out a shadow of a doubt the car to buy thank you for building such a fine car. and changing the way i think about mazda. a true believer.

• 

  I miss my PR5 - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By martymill - March 5 - 2:00 am

  I loved my Mazda for the 11.5 months I owned it! Unfortunately I was in an accident and the car was totaled. I am so sad to have only had it such a short time. The PR5 does really well in the snow and on mountain roads. The gas mileage was awesome, considering how expensive gas is today! I highly recommend the car to anyone on a budget, someone who hauls a moderate amount of stuff regularly, and wants a fun sporty car without the cost of one.

• 

  It is horrible in the snow. - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By LisaC - March 5 - 2:00 am

  I absolutely love the looks of this car and how it drives in anything but the snow. It is horrible in snow and slush. The tires are expensive as all heck! Why put a tire on a lower priced vehicle that costs like $162 a tire to replace? I am very disappointed in this car right now and unfortunately I am more than likely going to trade it in and loose my butt on the trade. I just cant stand the idea of spending that kind of money on tires that who knows if they will actually make the car go any better or not????? I would definitely NOT recommend this vehicle to anyone!

• 

  I like many things about this car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By James Forte - March 5 - 2:00 am

  Coming out of a 98 Passat, I wanted more basic ride for my daily driver. The MAZDA3 is good, but certainly not comparable in attention to detail (but its $7K less!). I am happy with the fuel economy and design, although materials could be better. Mazda should be proud and has a car that competes with the base Jetta and Corolla. The real problem with this car is its brand. Nothing symbolizes second rate more than Mazda with its childish campaigns (please stop!). The goofy kid/song – argh! Fortunately for Mazda, the product exceeds its poor brand image. For me, I have to fend off all of my buddies who tease me about Zoom Zoom (it’s better than Suzuki!).