Mazda is a Japanese car manufacturer that was founded by Jujiro Matsuda. The company became known as Mazda Motors in 1984. It wasn’t until the 1960’s that the company evolved to producing much more respectable cars.
In 1996 the Ford Motor Company took control of 33.4 percent of the company and held the majority of the controlling interest. Mazda enjoyed a good level of success in the 1980’s but saw a decline in sales during the 1990’s.
The company had its share of ups and downs until 2002 when it released several new models. The company has continued to grow and prosper in more recent years. Some of the more popular models include the Mazda 5, the Mazda 2, the Mazda 3, the Mazda 6, The Mazda MX-5, and the Mazda RX-8.
The Mazda 5 is a compact MPV. The Mazda 5 has been produced in two generations. Production of the first generation 5 was from 1999 to 2005 and the second generation was produced from 2006 to the present.
The Mazda 2 is a small minivan The Mazda 2 replaced the Ford Festiva. It was first produced in 1996 and production continues to the present.
The Mazda 3 is a compact that is available as either a five-door hatchback or as a four-door sedan. The Mazda 3 replaced the Protégé and has been produced since 2003. Production continues to date.
The Mazda 6 is a mid-size car that replaced the Mazda 626. The car is available in three forms; a four-door sedan, a five-door station wagon, or as a five-door hatchback. The Mazda 6 was produced from 2002 to the present.
The Mazda MX-5 is a convertible roadster. The MX-5 has been produced in three generations. Production began in 1989 and continues to the present.
The Maxda RX-8 is a sportscar. The two door coupe provides seating for four. The RX-8 replaced the Mazda Cosmo. Production on the car began in 2003 and continues to date.