The "Zoom-Zoom" Philosophy
In the early 2000s, a kid whispered "Zoom-Zoom" into the camera, and a brand identity was born. But for Mazda, this wasn't just marketing; it was a mission statement. Mazda is the smallest of the major Japanese manufacturers, which gives them the freedom to take risks that Toyota or Nissan wouldn't dare.
Mazda builds cars for people who actually like to drive. They are one of the few manufacturers that steadfastly refused to put CVT transmissions in their cars, sticking to crisp-shifting traditional automatics because they feel better. Whether it is a family crossover like the CX-5 or a sports car, a Mazda always has heavier steering and a firmer suspension than the competition. It connects you to the road rather than isolating you from it.
The Answer Is Always Miata
There is an acronym in the car world: M.I.A.T.A. (Miata Is Always The Answer).
Launched in 1989 as the MX-5, the Miata saved the roadster. The British had invented the small convertible (think MG, Triumph), but they couldn't make them reliable. Mazda took the concept, fixed the oil leaks and the electrics, and created the best-selling two-seater sports car in history. It is not fast, but it is perfect. It is the most raced car in the world, dominating grassroots motorsports across the USA every weekend.
The Rotary Rebels: RX-7 and RX-8
Mazda is the only car company to successfully mass-produce the Wankel Rotary Engine. Instead of pistons going up and down, it uses a triangular rotor spinning inside an oval housing.
The RX-7 (especially the twin-turbo FD generation of the 90s) is a masterpiece of design and engineering. It revs to the moon and sounds like a buzzsaw. However, the rotary engine consumes oil by design and has a reputation for blowing "apex seals" if not maintained religiously. It is a high-maintenance relationship, but the driving experience is unlike anything else.
SkyActiv and the Push Upmarket
In recent years, Mazda has tried to leave the "economy car" segment and move into "premium" territory to fight Acura and Volvo. Their interiors are now widely considered the best in their class, featuring high-quality leather and minimalist design.
Their engine technology, branded as SkyActiv, focuses on high-compression naturally aspirated engines rather than tiny turbos. They believe in linear power delivery. They recently launched the CX-90, featuring a new inline-6 engineâa layout usually reserved for BMWs.
Buying Advice: Rust and Premix
- The Miata: If you are buying an older Miata (NA or NB generation), check the rocker panels (the metal below the doors). They rust from the inside out because the rain drains get clogged.
- The Rotary: buying an RX-7 or RX-8 is not for beginners. You need to check compression ratios. Many owners "premix" (add 2-stroke oil to the gas tank) to help lubricate the engine. It is a lifestyle, not just a car.
Mazda proves that you don't need 500 horsepower to have fun. You just need a chassis that talks to you.