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 Buy - 2005 Mazda MPV
  By Way to go Mazda - December 8 - 12:53 am

  The Mazda MPV is an excellent value. All the latest features like power doors, dvd player, power sunroof and seats are all optional but the LX with the sports package is loaded! Great features such as fold away third row seat, captains chairs, rear air and heat, tinted windows, roof rack and a wonderful stereo system.

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  Dont buy one of these! - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By Scott - December 7 - 5:23 pm

  I had issues with this car from the moment I purchased it. My wife and I downgraded to save money given the economic environment. We bought it in late 2008 with about 68000 miles on it, figuring it shouldnt give us any trouble for a few years. Well, I had put about $500 into it up until August of 2009 which I wasnt happy about. Then in August, the engine went out costing me $3500 for a used motor. Needless to say, I am less than satisfied and will never buy a Mazda again. The Mazda I owned before this one needed a new transmission at 30000 miles. Ridiculous.

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  Great Van - 2004 Mazda MPV
  By Chris - December 7 - 3:26 pm

  I have over 65k miles on my van now and still love it. Yes the gear shift lever is in a bad place and can easily be knocked out of gear but overall I am greatly satisfied. The only problem we have had so far is the coil packs are prone to go out which can leave you stranded (happened to us). Fits my family of 4 just fine with room in the back for all our stuff.

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  Great Midsize SUv - 2005 Mazda Tribute
  By A Alba - December 7 - 10:10 am

  Well built and fun to drive. Sexy looking design.

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  CX-7 Rocks for 2007 - 2007 Mazda CX-7
  By isaac25 - December 6 - 1:03 pm

  This is the first Mazda I have owned and the third car Ive owned. I was not a fan of Mazda, but after I purchased this car, I am a fan for good. I like my car a lot, I enjoy it. This vehicle is amazing, I plan on adding more performance parts to it. I feel like I am driving a race car.

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  Best in class - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By gokalps - December 6 - 10:00 am

  This car is the best in its category. After an extensive search I decided on this car, and two weeks of ownership proves me right. What an amazing car to drive. It definately feels and drives like a more expensive car. If you are shopping for a civic, corolla, matrix or scion, check this one too. You will love it!!

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  Great all-around car! - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By chipfiev - December 6 - 10:00 am

  The Mazda 3s hatchback is the perfect car for this suburbanite. Its quick and fun to drive, yet still gives high 20s gas mileage on my stop-and-go commute. Its very tossable, but still manages to let me haul people and things. The car also just looks great - especially in Winning Blue. And the price - very well equipped for under $20K is a great deal these days.

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  Cool car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By trevorhirst - December 6 - 10:00 am

  This is a sweet little hatchback. Similar in shape to the European Fiat Bravo of a few years back, but very much modernized and beefed up with sharper edges and nice 17" alloys. The interior is pleasingly simple, especially the dash and it is nice to be able to switch off the crazy light show from the stereo. The combination of blue and orange lights on the dials may sound gross, but it looks really good and more importantly is very clear. This car replaced a VW Bug convertible (a lemon) and the difference in quality is immeasurable.

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  Great car so far - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By nmone84 - December 5 - 10:23 pm

  Acquired used 2 years ago with 28k miles & it has been very reliable thus far. Only issues Ive had are dead pixels on the LCD display (Mazda replaced unit free under warranty) & lately the throttle has been irregular on cold start which lasts until its warmed up. Performance slightly above average, as is gas mileage (in 90% city traffic). As for the iPod integration complaints, it IS possible (mine works great) - its just not easy. You need an adapter (which isnt cheap, about $200), & you need to solder a jumper on the L716 location of the HU because Mazda never made the CD changer port active in the stereo.

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  Not real happy with it - 2002 Mazda MPV
  By Derrick Petree - December 5 - 11:23 am

  We should had gone with the Honda. At first it was a great van. Then we had an overheating problem. That had it in the shop 5 times. We had to take it back 3 times for the same recall. Then at 60,578 the transmission went out. Just after the warranty went out. Dealer wont fix because we 578 over on miles. Cost us $2400 to fix. Poor gas mileage about 18 hwy, 15 city.