Mazda's Automotive Legacy and the Symbolic Essence of its Logo

Mazda Motor Corporation, or Mazda, is a Japanese automaker headquartered in Fuchu, Aki District, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. Mazda produced over 1.5 million vehicles in 2015 manufactured in Japan and worldwide. This makes Mazda the 15th biggest automaker by production worldwide.

Mazda Motor Corporation: A Brief Timeline

Toyo Cork Kogyo Company Limited was initially a cork manufacturer in Hiroshima, Japan, founded in 1920, and underwent a name change to Toyo Kogyo Company Limited in 1927. By 1931, it transitioned into producing machine tools and later three-wheeled vehicles, introducing its first model, the Mazda-Go. In 1984, the company was renamed as Mazda. In the early 1960s, Mazda drew inspiration from the German NSU Ro 80 car's rotary engine, pursuing a unique identity within the Japanese automotive market. This led to the development of their Wankel rotary engine, fostering a strategic alliance with NSU. This collaboration resulted in the release of the Mazda Cosmo Sport in 1967. Now, Mazda stands as the sole manufacturer of Wankel rotary engines in the automotive sector.

Mazda's shift towards rotary engines paid off as its exports surged, particularly driven by the popularity of lightweight and powerful rotary models compared to bigger piston alternatives. Notably, the R100 and the RX series (RX-2, RX-3, and RX-4) emerged as top sellers. However, the oil crisis of the 1980s affected the demand for rotary engines due to their lower efficiency. Undeterred, Mazda maintained a dual focus, emphasizing four-cylinder models throughout the 1970s, notably the compact Mazda Familia and the larger Capella series. While prioritizing piston engines, Mazda remained committed to rotary technology, positioning it exclusively for sports enthusiasts. This dedication was evident with the launch of the RX-7 in 1978, followed by the RX-8. Mazda's commitment to sports cars continued with the highly acclaimed MX-5 Miata (Roadster) in 1989, which garnered widespread acclaim worldwide.

What is “MAZDA”?

In 1920, a cork manufacturing enterprise called Toyo Kogyo was established in Hiroshima, Japan. By 1931, Toyo Kogyo Company Limited, shifted from cork production to manufacturing machine tools and rickshaws, introduced its first vehicle, a tricycle, from its factory, named the "Mazda-go." This naming concept was conceived by Jujiro Matsuda, the company's second president and one of its founding members, in collaboration with other pivotal figures within the organization. Under Matsuda’s stewardship, "Mazda-go" seemed competent. However, the choice of "Mazda" over "Matsuda" was rooted in deeper symbolism. In ancient Western Asian civilizations, Ahura Mazda symbolized wisdom, harmony, and intelligence. 

This historical resonance led Toyo Kogyo's key stakeholders to use "Mazda" to mark the beginning of East and West civilizations, particularly within the automotive realm. By invoking "Mazda," Toyo Kogyo aimed to embody automotive culture and civilization's spirit, aspiring to illuminate the industry with their innovation, and later evolved into Mazda Motor Corporation, reflecting their aspiration to be a guiding light in automotive innovation. Moreover, "Mazda" paid homage to Jujiro Matsuda, one of the company's founders, as his surname almost sounds like "Mazda."

Meaning of Mazda Logo

Mazda's logo, features a stylized "M," conveying the image of wings in motion, representing Mazda's journey towards the future. Within the "M," the "V" extends like an unfolding fan, signifying Mazda's attributes of flexibility, vitality, creativity, and passion. This logo embodies Mazda's commitment to innovation and adaptability in its products. The dynamic circle encasing the emblem symbolizes Mazda's willingness to embrace new opportunities and challenges as it enters the 21st century.

Finally

Mazda emerges as an excellent option when you need a car that combines comfort and enjoyment for your driving experience. Renowned for its blend of performance and luxurious interiors. You can now explore our extensive range of Mazda vehicles available on our stocklist.