Makes / Mazda

Mazda was founded in 1920 under the name "Toyo Kogyo", producing primarily machine tools. In 1931, it started producing 3-wheel trucks, but production of cars came as late as 1960, when it launched a mini-coupe called R360. Two years later, it produced its first 4-door saloon, Carol 360. Meanwhile, Toyo Kogyo began branding its cars as "Mazda". Export to the USA market started in 1970 with RX-2, followed by RX-3 and RX-4. In the early 2000s, Mazda started a campagn to promote a sporty image. This began with RX-8, which succeeded the late RX-7, and followed by the sporty-tuned Mazda 3 and 6. It changed the company image successfully and lured many keen drivers from its Japanese rivals.