Mazda entered the automobile market in 1960, though the Japanese manufacturer had been involved in machine production since 1920. Although the Mazda name was given to its cars from the beginning the company itself did not formally adopt it until 1984 - previously being known as Toyo Kogyo.

Within a year the brand was producing four different models and by 1963 total production exceeded one million. This rapid growth was helped by Mazda’s strong performance in the ‘Keicar’ category of small Japanese vehicles and by the end of its first decade worldwide exports had begun.

Advancements in engine technology allowed Mazda to stay ahead of its competitors in the 1970s as the Wankel rotary engine was introduced to the majority of its lineup. The popular RX-7, along with the later MX-5, would earn the brand a reputation as a serious sports car producer and the MX-5 went on to be named best-selling sports car by the Guinness Book of World Records.

The 1990s saw Mazda struggle worldwide, despite retaining popularity in Europe. An attempt to increase sales by introducing several brands backfired and the company struggled to compete with the likes of Toyota. The Xedos range was launched in Europe in 1993 but lasted just eight years with two models.

Since 1969 Mazda have had a partnership with Ford and this was sealed in 1996 when Ford increased their interest to a 33.4% controlling share. Coming under the American company’s influence has helped Mazda reassert itself and the two manufacturers have benefited from basing their vehicles on some of the other’s designs.

EuroNCAP Safety Ratings for Mazda cars
The European New Car Assessment Programme produces reports on the safety of vehicles based on the results of several crash tests. As well as measuring how the car will hold up in a crash the risk to a pedestrian struck by the car is assessed. The star ratings (maximum 5) of key Mazda models are shown below.