Category Archives: Mazda

[gallery link="file" ids="3220,3221,3222,3223,3224"] Overview: This week we’re looking at the 2008 Mazda 5 Grand Touring AT. And for those of you who have driven Mazda’s you likely have an interest in what Mazda is doing. There isn’t a cult following per se, but it is certain that people do come back to...

[gallery link="file" ids="3227,3228,3229,3230"] Overview: This week we’re looking at the 2008 Mazda CX-7 and although I like this vehicle I was a little surprised at the engine noise. It reminded me of Tim Allen in the Santa Clause movie and the line “there rose such a clatter”. Secondly, with all my preaching over...

[gallery link="file" ids="3233,3234,3235,3236"] Overview: This week we’re looking at the 2008 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring front wheel drive SUV. This is ‘hot’ but unfortunately not ‘green’. We keep getting pushed and pulled by the acknowledgment that we must do something to cut our travel budget but we like all the comfort and...

[gallery link="file" ids="3240,3243,3241,3242"] Overview: This week we’re looking at the 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata that has grown up nicely over the past several years. It has always been one of my favorite little affordable sport cars. I always felt it to be a “chick” car and demographics tell us half of all...

[gallery link="file" ids="3246,3249,3247,3248"] Overview: This week we’re looking at the 2008 Mazda Tribute HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) 2-Wheel Drive SUV. I guess if you have to own a Sport Utility Vehicle it is at least responsible to make it a Hybrid like this Mazda. I’ve always liked to drive the little Miata MX-5...

[gallery link="file" ids="3252,3253,3254,3255,3256"] Overview: This week we’re looking at the 2008 Mazda Speed 3. By any measure or opinion you can’t argue with the fact that this is a high performance car. You need only test drive the car to be instantly impressed. It is truly a rocket and no matter what...

[gallery link="file" ids="3312,3313,3314,3315"] Overview: This week we're looking at the 2006 Mazda 6 S Grand Sport Wagon. Even this utility wagon comes with 18-inch wheels. Remember when 14” and 15” were the standard? This wagon is where practical comes home and although Corvette and other flashy cars are fun they just don't...

[gallery link="file" ids="3306,3307,3308,3309"] Overview: This week we're looking at the 2006 Mazda MPV 2-WD (SUV / Mini Van?) Mazda says: Body of a Minivan, soul of a sports car. I have a friend that fits that description. If you've read my column for very long you'll know that for a very long time...

[gallery link="file" ids="3300,3301,3302,3303"] Overview: This week I tested the “pea popper” Mazda Miata MX-5 and as that description came to mind I considered that it really communicates something less than a serious sport car driving experience. That is not entirely true and Merkel is quick to tell me how much better and capable...

[gallery link="file" ids="3295,3296,3297"] Overview: Here we are again with yet another of hundreds of models to choose from. The 2005 Mazda 3 4-Door Sedan made the week to the Pacific Northwest a cost comfortable trip. I put on about 700 miles and that translates to about 2 tanks of gas and I...