Mazda is one of the largest and oldest Japanese automotive manufacturers still active today. The brand has always done things its own way rather than following trends and doing what others do. That is something I greatly appreciate about the manufacturer.
Numerous models have made history for the manufacturer due to their unique style or unusual features. Others have simply earned a strong reputation among car enthusiasts. However, before discussing the vehicles that interest us today, let's talk about the brand.
Before being called Mazda, the company founded by Jujiro Matsuda in 1920 was known as Toyo Cork Kogyo Co. Thus, even before manufacturing cars, the brand produced cork caps. The company changed its name in 1934 to the one we know today. However, it was not until 1960 that Mazda produced its first car.
The models I have chosen to talk about are not necessarily old, and I would even say that most of them belong to Mazda's modern era.
1 - Mazda RX-8 2003 - 2012
All cars in the RX series were revolutionary in their own way. They are particularly known for their unique rotary engine. The RX-8 was an innovative car on multiple levels. It featured a rotary engine, as well as suicide doors at the rear, making it as practical as a 4-door car while giving it the appearance of a sports coupe.
2 - Mazda5 2004 - 2018
The Mazda 5 was one of the most popular models of its time thanks to its innovative concept. It had sliding side doors, although it was not a minivan. This type of configuration already existed in Europe at the time, but in Canada, it was an exclusive feature that other brands envied Mazda for.
3 - Mazda3 2004 - present
Despite a career filled with obstacles, the Mazda3 came close to outselling the Civic and Corolla when it debuted in Canada, and it deserves to be mentioned in this compilation just for that achievement. The Mazda3 is still very popular today, even though SUVs dominate the market. The Japanese manufacturer's compact car is enjoyable to drive and is also one of the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid cars in its category.
4 - Mazda CX-90 2023 - present
I know the Mazda CX-90 has just arrived on the market, but the model is so innovative and modern that it will certainly make its mark in the brand's history. The CX-90 literally offers the same driving experience as a luxury and prestige model at the price of a mainstream SUV. It is an impressive vehicle on all levels, and I would not be surprised if it wins the SUV of the Year title from numerous media outlets.
5 - Mazda MX-5/Miata 1989 - present
I have had the chance to drive at least one example from each of the 4 generations of this model, and I can tell you that the Mazda MX-5 is still the benchmark for small convertible cars today. It offers an ideal weight-to-power balance. As a very lightweight model, this Japanese sports car is agile and fun to drive. It may not be as exotic and impressive as the majority of its rivals, but there is a reason why the Mazda MX-5 is considered one of the best sports cars in the world. It is a model that every car enthusiast should drive at least once in their life. To date, Mazda has sold over a million units, which speaks volumes about the model.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
