Mazda

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Mazda Buying Guide

Get the best online car shopping experience with expert reviews of Mazda Read more to learn about the most important features and important factors to consider when researching Mazda.

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Mazda Overview

Mazda started building passenger vehicles in 1960. Since then, the Japanese automaker has earned a reputation for creating innovative, fun-to-drive, and affordable models, perhaps best embodied by its popular convertible, the MX-5 Miata. It’s been one of the highest-rated sports cars on the market since its 1989 debut. Today Mazda sells a full range of vehicles, including compact hatchbacks, midsize sedans, and three-row crossovers. Their cars tend to offer a greater focus on driver engagement than similar models from rivals such as Toyota or Nissan. Mazda’s bestseller has long been the CX-5, a compact SUV.

Noteworthy Features

New Features for 2020
The 2019 Mazda 3 boasts a forward-collision warning and mitigation system in the sport models and above, putting it on a level playing field with other brands of its class. The Grand Touring models now feature LED headlights and a standard 2.5-liter engine. Mazda's 2019 midsize model, the 6, now sports G-Vectoring Control Plus on all models and the i-Activesense safety suite as standard equipment. The 2020 MX-5 Miata 30th Anniversary Edition, introduced in 1989, was put out for 2020, but only 3,000 were made in production.

Great All-Around Interior
The new Mazda 3's interior is stylish and designed with comfort in mind. There's plenty of legroom up front, and the driver's seat feels spacious. The 2019 Mazda 6 is the roomier option for drivers who want a midsized sedan, and it features functional equipment that rivals any car in its class.

Driveability
The CX-9 is a step above the CX-5 in size. It has a sporty style that is popular now and an interior that is luxurious. In 2019, Mazda added blind-spot monitors, smartphone integration and a 360-degree camera, better insulation and improved ride quality.

Additional Considerations

Some Models Not Updated
Certain Mazda models, like the 2020 CX-3 and the Mazda 6, have little in the way of updates. Though the 6 is a nice balance of affordability, performance, and safety, the powertrain needs improving. The 2019 Mazda 6 rides somewhat stiffer than its competitors. Some drivers prefer a plush, smooth ride and could be put off by the tight ride the Mazda 6 provides.

Utility Features Lacking
The Mazda 3 has average storage, but the design may be considered poor when compared to other brands that offer more room. While there's plenty of space up front, passengers in the back seat might struggle for legroom. The 2019 Mazda 6 improves on cabin storage, but other brands feature more clever design in that arena.

Touch Screen Issues
The Mazda 3's touch screen only functions when the car is stopped or parked. Though this is an additional safety feature, it may prove to be cumbersome for some buyers who want to be able to use the controls while driving for music or navigating.