Industry Report: How Did Mazda Go from So Cold to So Hot?

Now at 84 years young, 73 of those spent manufacturing vehicles, Mazda is managing to maintain its alternative mystique

Mazda's strength isn't about becoming the number one seller, it's about staying true to the nameplate's core values. (Photo: Mazda Canada)

despite outstanding sales success. At 34 years old (technically 35 but Mazda Canada didn't start selling its RX 100 until 1968), a number that interestingly enough beats Mazda Motors of America to market by two years and only follows Australia for overseas Mazda divisions, Canadians' especial fondness for the brand has made it an integral part of the automaker's global puzzle. Mazda Canada's one millionth vehicle milestone was achieved in 2002, and it won't take anywhere near three and a half decades to repeat the process if current volumes are any indication of the brand's future.

Of course, Mazda's strength isn't about becoming the number one seller. What matters more is staying true to the nameplate's core values, which include selling stylish, sporty, and functional cars, vans, trucks and SUVs, that are also big on value. If Mazda respects its loyal customer base and in so doing never forgets what it is supposed to represent in the marketplace, its success will without doubt continue for years to come.