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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  NOT YOUR TYPICAL COMPACT SEDAN - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Oliman - September 13 - 8:03 am

  This car got me all excited about owning a "compact" car. Its like having a BMW or a Mercedes in terms of look and feel. I have the Mazda3 s 4-door automatic, it came with 8 airbags, 17-inch wheels, power moonroof, and a decent 160 hp from its 2.3 liter variable valve timed engine. From the moment I test drove the car, i fell in love with it, nothing comes close to its style, handling and upscale look in the compact car world. this car is very pretty inside-out. It actually gets plenty of attention whenever I fill up, or when I am at a parking lot, people cant beleive it costs much less than it actually looks. Overall, this car competes with EUROS in style and value.

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  The BEST Crossover! - 2011 Mazda CX-7
  By pamy1 - September 12 - 10:00 pm

  I love this crossover, compared to other competitors the Mazda CX-7 is #1! Fun to drive and even comes with great features. I have the sport with convenience package, which is by far the best package. I just cant live without the heated seats, interative bluetooth, back-up camera and the moonroof. There are two ways to fold the seats down, there is even a release button to put the back seats all the way down, and you can put all your grocerys in the trunk with each. My husband is 6 ft 5 and has plenty of room when hes driving, so there is definetly alot of head and leg room. I received so many compliments on this vehicle. The best car for your money!

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  1st Mazda - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By tan - September 12 - 11:06 am

  It was not my choice. I really wanted a charger. After driving it, I like the radio control on the steering wheel. It will save me on gas. The seats are comfortable, and the car can get up and go.

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  Open air driving excitement - 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By my dream car - September 12 - 10:00 am

  This is my other car. Ive been wanting to own a miata since I first test drove one in 1995. However, I was a student with no income, so no car. Ive been driving a SUV for past 5 years. I got this miata for my birthday and it is FUN. I love the handling and open air driving experience. The design is very nice, reminiscent of the old Jag E- types.

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  great car - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By scoupelx - September 12 - 10:00 am

  THIS IS THE BEST CAR OUT ON THE MARKET.MAZDA REALLY OUT DID THERE SELF THIS TIME. YOU GET YOUR MONEYS WORTH WITH THIS CAR AND LOTS OF FUN TO DRIVE.

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  Nice little ride - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By jondarron - September 12 - 10:00 am

  I wasnt even aware Mazda made the 3 when I was wandering around the car lot. I noticed it and was like "what is this". I test drove one the next day and bought it by the end of the week.

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  The Car is BAD! ( bad as in great) - 2004 Mazda Mazda3
  By Hillman - September 12 - 10:00 am

  Just got my Titanuium 3, fully loaded with leather and i have a smile on my face everytime I drive it. The looks alone on peoples faces are awesome. Even when people are driving behind me I can tell theyre talking about the 3

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  Mediocre Car - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Barry Wood - September 12 - 10:00 am

  OK car, but does not live up to thier marketing. Less than average fuel economy

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  Car Washing Is Fun Again! - 2005 Mazda Mazda3
  By Sh0kker - September 12 - 5:00 am

  When the car was introduced in 04, I knew Id own one. I waited for any "beginner" bugs to be worked out & bought the GREAT reviewed 05 model. To date, I have no complaints. The style, the power & the extras cant be compared with any other car in the $20k range. I also looked at the Civic, Corolla, Focus, Matrix & Jetta. It may get beat in gas milage, but the other cars are boring & plain. Besides, I see a few dozen of those other cars on the road everyday. This car is a head- turner. I go hiking, The Sport AT transmission is great for climbing the big hills & it makes it FUN. Lots of cargo room. The exterior/interior styling is great. Lots of room for my sports stuff & the kids stuff!

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  3rd mazda, 2nd mazda3 - 2010 Mazda Mazda3
  By bridgetshaw - September 11 - 11:15 pm

  I recently traded in my 2011 Mazda2 for a 2012 Mazda3, was a fantastic choice since the 2 is garbage. Then traded the 2012 3 for a 2010 for a little more miles and a lot less money. I got the car with 30k miles on it, all maintenance touched up, and a better deal. From what I know about the newer model I have high hopes for this one. The gas mpg is little shotty after driving the Skyactive engine, but it is even more fun to drive, with better handling. I love the Mazda3, its truly a unique sedan in this day and age.