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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  BEWARE of TRANSMISSION COOLER Problems - 2008 Mazda Tribute
  By Michelle - February 5 - 2:36 pm

  We have constantly had problems with our tribute. The transmission cooler leaks. Actually I believ the component is recalled. We had it fixed once but the problem is still there. Beware if you plan to buy a Mazda tribute. If you live in the northwest territories make sure you can service the truck in the northwest territories. I have had to drive to grand praire Alberta so they can service the truck and look at the tranny leak. They said it was fine but the leak is still there. Mazda Canada said that I would have to always drive to grand praire to get it serviced escpecially if it was a warranty part. We payed from our own pockets $700.00. Mazda Canada reinbursed us $94.00. Beware

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  Stay Away from this SUV - 2007 Mazda CX-7
  By nurseangel - February 5 - 4:30 am

  Wow, I am not really shocked at all the complaints but i am glad to see that i am not the only one in distress, I bought this junk brand new in 2007 and now it sits in my back yard not running at all. My timing chain broke at 56,00 miles, YES, and when it broke so did my engine. I always had thoughts that this car was junk because I would hear a rattle from time to time after acceleration and then a puff of smoke and check engine light stayed on, ac is horrible for back passengers, horrible, There needs to be a recall on this SUV nothing but junk and know I have a to pay for a car thats need 10,000 worth of work, I had this car serviced every 6000 miles now look, JUNK JUNK JUNK stay away

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  Subaru Convert - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By pb - February 5 - 1:00 am

  I was a Subaru owner, now a happy Mazda6 owner. From my 1st glimpse, I knew I wanted one. It is a solid car that looks and feels great! So far it has given me what my 3 Subarus couldnt.

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  Very good car - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By wendavid9 - February 4 - 9:26 pm

  I have had the car for just about a month. City and highway drive is about 50/50 and have average mileage above 26 mpg (based on my calculation on 3 tank refills). Trunk is the largest in its class but the opening could be bigger. I have two children sit in back seat and seems rear windows are bit high for them to see outside. Ride is quiet and comfortable. The boss sound does its job nicely. The 6 speed manual transmission is very smooth and fun to shift. Blue tooth system is easy to use and very helpful. Blind spot monitor is a good feature but only works when speed is above 20 mph. lots of air bags and traction control and stability control are standard. Just love it.

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  Nothing but Problems - 2007 Mazda CX-7
  By Gaetano - February 4 - 2:33 pm

  My wife and I purchased the CX-7 in November 2007. The vehicle has been in the shop more than 40 days. It is an electrical nightmare! Problems range from parking lights that do not turn off to windows that will not work. The car has a stiff ride, poor rear visibility, and a cheap looking interior. MPG is horrible averaging about 15. I believe that its sibling, the CX-9, won car of the year for 2007, however the CX-7 is anything but!

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  Infotainment problems - 2014 Mazda Mazda3
  By alanjd - February 4 - 1:30 pm

  One of the main reasons I choose the Mazda3 was to have email and text read out to me for safety reason. The feature doesnt work on Iphones and most other phones as promised by the dealer. I checked the site after buying and could not find a phone where email worked and only a couple where text worked Contact import is useless. It brings in the suggested names contacts from the phone. These do not have phone numbers or addresses so they are useless. It is limited to 1000 contacts so most real contacts do not get loaded. Cant get anyone in support to tell me if this will be fixed or if I am stuck using SIRI for calls and GPS addresses.

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  Warning on Driving in Water - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By HLopez - February 4 - 10:00 am

  Drove my new Mazda M6 with (2200 miles) in 3 to 4 inches of water after a storm at less than 15 mph, and got extensive damage, including cracked radiator, wet alternator and starter, and waiting to find out what else once they replace radiator and run engine diagnostic. Mazda warranty does not cover this, insurance will have to cover. Very disappointed with dealer attitutde, claiming its all my fault. My first Mazda is leaving a sour taste on my mouth, both for car and dealer.

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  surprisingly fun to drive - 2003 Mazda MPV
  By bacrandell - February 4 - 10:00 am

  When we first test drove the Mazda MPV we were impressed with how it handled. The steering is responsive and the braking is quick. It didnt seem to roll as much in turns as one might expect a minivan to do. Now having driven for 6 months, we still enjoy it a great deal. It has made several long- distance trips in addition to the usual around town driving. It has sufficient power for passing on the freeway, and the steering feels tight in turns. It seems to have sufficient room for our little family. It feels quite safe and secure.

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  We Love IT!!! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By PHAGE - February 4 - 10:00 am

  The number one requirement for my wife and my car is that she, 5ft 3in, has the ability to conveniently see out of all the windows and I, 6 2", need to have adequate leg room. This car is Sophisticated the right amount of power without the gaudy engine noise.

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  Almost Perfect - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Ciaraswtp143 - February 4 - 10:00 am

  Needs lock button lights, needs better speakers. thats all. its a great ride. and sporty and sexy. fast and fun. i have a fully loaded V6 apperarnce package (ground effects) all leather and lapis blue. the best color. i love it