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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  Love My Miata - 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By smittyad - October 10 - 12:03 pm

  I wanted a 2 seater but not the Miata. I went to go get the Sky, loved the exterior but hated the interior, same with the solstice. I test drove every other 2 seater less than 35,000 then I said to be fair I would test drive the Miata. I fell in love. My only regret is that I should have gotten the touring special edition. But when I purchase a new one I will get it.

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  2nd Mazda 3 - 2006 Mazda Mazda3
  By Sam - October 10 - 10:20 am

  This is my 2nd Mazda 3 5 door. I traded my previous 2004 model that had 33,000 miles for a tricked out one. I thought the 2004 model was a nice ride, but the 2006 seems to be smoother and quieter. Plus the Grand Touring upgrade with Nav System is very nice. Options I would expect on more expensive cars.

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  The perfect car. - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By Kyosuke - October 10 - 7:50 am

  Ive had my Mazda Protege 5 for about 3 1/2 years and I absolutely love it. In the beginning I was a bit wary of the fact that it was a wagon rather than a four door, but I had to get it since it was more practical. I love the leather seats. The sound system is amazing, however I change my stereo deck to an Alpine which made the bass a 100 times better. The styling is amazing; one of a kind. Handling is excellent, the aceleration is not too bad for a four cylinder. I especially love the 4 speed tiptronic, which allows you to rev beyond the 6,500 rpm. I wouldnt suggest it, but Ive taken it up to 7,000 rpm. Nothing is wrong. Its extremely reliable and no problems whatsoever.

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  One of the best - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By Mazda Fan - October 9 - 12:43 pm

  Ive owned 6 Mazdas (2 626s, 2 MPVs, Millenia, and this Protege) this is the most fun to drive so far. I loved my Millenia, but I missed having a 5-speed, so I traded it in on the Protege. This car, like all Mazdas, has been very reliable. It is fun to drive and it handles very well. Ive had 2 other verisons of the 2.0L engine. It is an excellent engine and the one in this Protege is the most powerful so far. My son has the same engine in his Ford Escort. Its no match for the power mine produces.

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  Tight Handler - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By zanellaii - October 9 - 4:00 am

  I purchased this vehicle as an alternative to driving my 4x4 pick-up back and forth to work. I drove all the competition, none of which had the quality, price, power or handling of the Mazda 3s. I am most impressed with the handling of this car. Its a safety feature as much as a plus for having fun. The fit and finish is on par with some of the best cars on the market. The solidity of the body is the best in its class, period. I have never been in a small car that didnt feel like a small car until now. Everyone who rides in the vehicle, or drives it, comments on how quiet and solid it feels. The interior is also best in class. Only complaint, no electric trunk release on keyfob.

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  Fun Little Car - 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Eric H - October 7 - 10:00 am

  I sold my Cobra replica last year and was looking to get a little two seat roadster for commuting instead of just cruzing. I needed a cheap two seat roadster that got good mileage and was reliable. My search brought me to the miata which was not an enthusiastic choice at first. Upon purchasing this car I have found it to be the best of all worlds in that it is very affordable, peppy and killer in the curves, very reliable, and maintains about 30mpg. It is a fun car that I can drive all the time! instead of parking next to it during the week and hopeing that I can drive it this weekend if the weather is good.

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  The new standard! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Rob B. - October 7 - 10:00 am

  Ive had mine since May 14 and it never ceases to impress me. The Mazda rips through curves like a sport sedan and gets plenty of power from the 2.0 liter enginge regardless of transmission. The automatic shifts quickly but I mostly use the manual mode for better fuel economy. Some will find the ride too firm but I prefer to feel the road. Fit and finish is excellent and the controls are very well designed. Speed sensing steering is standard (gets firmer as you go faster. The ABS/side air bags/side air curtains package is a step above the norm for this class and is packaged with things most drivers want anyways (requires air conditioning and power switches).

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  Mazda 3s - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Galleta16 - October 7 - 10:00 am

  I purchased a mazda s 3 back in april, since then I have been loving the car! the interior and exterior is just beautiful, the trunk is full of space and the car is just a blast to drive, for the price its a 5 start to me!!

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  My new Mazda3 - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By BBoyBe16 - October 7 - 10:00 am

  This is the best looking hatchback car Ive ever seen. I went to the dealership and I was greatly impressed. There was no need to test drive... My father purchased it for me directly from the showroom. We drove off the dealership feeling really good. That day we got at least 4 honks and countless amounts of stares. And all my friends want to drive my car.

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  Mazda 6 - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By larrybeau - October 7 - 10:00 am

  As advertised, this is a joy to drive: nimble. road-savvy, peppy. Everything about it is well-designed:drive train, interior, exterior.