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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  Good wheels - 2008 Mazda CX-7
  By Jim - October 11 - 1:33 am

  One of the best vehicles Ive owned in oner 50 years of driving. Glad to see Ford is using some of this technology. Would buy another Mazda.

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  everything I need - 2005 Mazda Tribute
  By scott richards - October 10 - 7:36 pm

  My first SUV and I really love it; looked at all the competition and kept coming back to the Tribute. I have package 3 with leather, roof and great stereo, also added dimming mirror, cargo net, wheel locks, bumper plate and side air bags; all for a great price when you take advantage of all the rebates available. This thing has plenty of room for hauling and still handles like a car, not loose like most SUVs. No complaints about the fuel economy (about 23 mph average). I only wish it had a larger fuel tank as the driving range is about 325 miles unless you go to fumes; it should have a 20 gallon instead of a 16.5 tank. For all the content, warranty and zoom-zoom you cant go wrong with a Tribute.

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  so for so good - 2003 Mazda MPV
  By mpvowner3 - October 10 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle is fun to drive. zoom zoom...... with V6 , it drives like a Sedan..

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  Very Happy so far - 2003 Mazda Tribute
  By parker1028 - October 10 - 2:00 am

  I just got the vehicle but it has been a pleasure to drive. Im very happy to date. Ive also seen some complaints about engine and wind/road noise but I havent heard anything out of the ordinary.

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  Fun to Drive and Good Value - 2008 Mazda Mazda6
  By CCD - October 9 - 6:23 am

  The Mazda6 is an excellent value. I bought the car loaded with everything except nav. Yet the car still lacks an upscale feel. The real appeal of this car is the handling which is outstanding for this type of car and the versatility of the hatch. With a more powerful motor, this car could have been exceptional. With the 6 cylinder engine, it is just a lot of fun to drive. A bigger motor would have really given the car a strong identity.

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  A good car overall - 2001 Mazda 626
  By Al - October 8 - 8:56 am

  From an appearance standpoint, this generation has the best lines compared to previous 626s, and the interior has an inviting look to it, plus its roomy and comfortable with a great stereo. If you want a car full of high- tech toys, youll be disappointed. The luxury/power features this model has (ES-V6) have been in luxury cars since the 80s. Reliability is good, except the radiator needed replacement @ 110K. Ive heard complaints about the transmission but so far Ive had no issues with it @ 156K. The V-6 runs horribly on 87 octane, it needs at least 89. Im getting clunking from the rear suspension, most likely bushings/struts needs replacing.

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  Mazda Tribute Review - 2004 Mazda Tribute
  By Bridget A. D. T. - October 5 - 11:20 pm

  I have owned this vehicle since June 2002. It has been a great SUV. Rides like a car - not a truck. Easy to get in and out - perfect height. Smooth handling on city streets as well as highway driving. Nice compact size yet still roomy enough for large shopping experiences and/or extra cabin guests. Fun looking and fun to drive.

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  Mazda MPV- Best Minivan- Period - 2004 Mazda MPV
  By jcarlson24 - October 5 - 4:26 pm

  Minivan for the sport family. We have 3 children who love the multiple positions of the rear seats, with 2 performance oriented adults driving. I recently hanged with a mustang and camaro at red light, how embarrassing for them!

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  Chadlis - 2003 Mazda Protege5
  By Chadley - October 5 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car just this month. While I have not bought many new cars. I do have to admit that I LOVE my Mazda Protege5! In my opinion, its the best car I have ever owned. I love the Sportronic Transmission! I love it when people do a second look at my car!

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  Love my Protege! - 2003 Mazda Protege
  By Newcombe - October 5 - 10:00 am

  Its true! This is a really great car! We purchased the car primarily as our "Getting to the Train" car, but its so much fun to drive, we use it on the weekends too! Much "zippier" and more reliable than our VW Jetta. Better gas mileage, stereo and seats, too!