Searching for the best Mazda? Check out our expert picks for 2024. This guide will help you choose the right Mazda, whether you’re looking for performance, efficiency, luxury, or practicality. Get started and find the best Mazda for your needs.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
The 2024 Mazda CX-5 is praised for its upscale interior and sharp handling, making it a competitive choice in the compact SUV market starting at $29,990.
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV stands out with a powerful hybrid powertrain offering 323 horsepower and an electric range of approximately 25 miles per charge.
The 2024 Mazda CX-9 excels as a family-friendly SUV, accommodating up to 7 passengers with ample cargo space, making it a practical option for larger families.
Best Compact SUV: 2024 Mazda CX-5
The 2024 Mazda CX-5 stands out in the compact SUV segment with its upscale cabin and engaging driving experience. This small SUV offers a blend of luxury and performance that is hard to beat in the market. Priced reasonably starting at $29,990, the CX-5 is a competitive choice for those seeking a quality compact SUV without breaking the bank.
One of the highlights of the CX-5 is its sharp handling, thanks to a well-tuned suspension setup that makes it the best-handling small crossover in its class. The turbocharged engine significantly enhances acceleration, providing a spirited driving experience that Mazda’s vehicles are known for. The AWD version of the CX-5 boasts an estimated fuel economy of around 26 mpg combined, making it an efficient option for everyday driving.
However, it’s worth noting that the CX-5’s cargo space is slightly smaller than many of its rivals, offering 30.9 cubic feet with the seats up and 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down. Despite this, its advanced safety features contribute to its high safety ratings, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.
Top Hybrid Option: 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid Model is a top contender for those seeking a hybrid vehicle. This model features a powerful 323-hp hybrid powertrain that combines a four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering impressive performance and efficiency. With an EPA-estimated electric range of approximately 25 miles per charge, and up to 26 miles in real-world testing, the CX-90 PHEV offers a practical solution for short commutes and city driving.
Charging the CX-90 PHEV is convenient, reaching 80% battery capacity in approximately 90 minutes using a 240-volt outlet. Despite being a three-row SUV, it maintains strong driving dynamics and agility comparable to its gasoline counterpart. In performance tests, the CX-90 PHEV accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.9 seconds, outpacing the gasoline model and showcasing its sporty credentials.
The interior of the CX-90 PHEV is crafted with high-quality materials, featuring a standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster that enhances the driving experience. Performance, efficiency, and luxury make the CX-90 PHEV a standout in the hybrid SUV category.
Best Luxury Vehicle: 2024 Mazda CX-50
The 2024 Mazda CX-50 sets a high bar in terms of luxury. This vehicle features a spacious, upscale interior that rivals many luxury brands. The CX-50’s cabin is adorned with high-quality materials and thoughtful design touches that elevate the driving experience.
Under the hood, the CX-50 offers a turbocharged engine option that delivers up to 256 horsepower when using premium fuel, ensuring robust performance. The firmer suspension setup contributes to its engaging driving dynamics, making it a joy to drive on both city streets and winding roads.
The starting price for the CX-50 ranges from approximately $30,300 to $43,300, depending on the trim level, providing options for various budgets.
Available trims include:
Select
Preferred
Premium
Turbo
Turbo Meridian
Each trim offers distinct features to cater to different preferences. Standard all-wheel drive further enhances the vehicle’s handling and off-road capabilities, making it a versatile choice for luxury SUV enthusiasts.
Sportiest Choice: 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata
The 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata is an excellent choice for those who crave sporty performance. This iconic sports car is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 181 horsepower, delivering exhilarating performance. Thanks to its lightweight design, the MX-5 Miata can sprint from zero to 60 mph in approximately 6 seconds, providing a thrilling driving experience.
The MX-5 Miata’s manual transmission is praised for its short and precise shifts, enhancing the fun driving dynamics this car is known for. Its agile and responsive handling makes it a standout among small sports cars, ensuring every drive is an enjoyable one.
Most Practical Family SUV: 2024 Mazda CX-9
The 2024 Mazda CX-9 excels in practicality for families. This three rows crossover is designed to accommodate up to 6 passengers with captain’s chairs or 7 with a third row bench seating configuration, making it ideal for larger families.
The CX-9 features a sophisticated interior with high-quality materials, ensuring a comfortable ride for all passengers. With the seats folded down, it offers a maximum cargo capacity of 71.2 cubic feet, providing ample space for family outings and trips. Space, comfort, and versatility make the CX-9 a practical choice for family SUV buyers.
Discontinued Models Worth Considering
While new models often grab the spotlight, several discontinued Mazda vehicles remain popular in the used car market due to their unique features and reliability. These models offer great value and performance, making them worthy of consideration for savvy buyers.
Their lasting appeal comes from a combination of unique features and proven reliability, which continues to attract buyers even after years off the production line. Let’s explore three notable discontinued models: the 2012 Mazda CX-7, the 2014 Mazda Mazda 2, and the 2015 Mazda Mazda 5.
2012 Mazda CX-7
The 2012 Mazda CX-7 is a stylish crossover SUV designed for small families. Known for its attractive exterior and excellent street handling, the CX-7 remains a favored choice among used car buyers looking for a reliable and stylish vehicle.
2014 Mazda Mazda 2
The 2014 Mazda Mazda 2 offers a sporty and lightweight feel, making it appealing to drivers who prioritize agility and responsiveness. Compared to competitors like the Honda Fit, the Mazda 2 stands out for its fun driving experience, despite its limited space.
2015 Mazda Mazda 5
The 2015 Mazda Mazda 5 is known for its versatile seating arrangement, accommodating up to six passengers in a compact footprint. This model is particularly appealing to families seeking a smaller alternative to traditional minivans.
Best Towing Capacity: 2024 Mazda CX-90
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 is an excellent choice for strong towing capabilities. This SUV is designed to tow up to 5,000 pounds, making it highly competitive in its class. Its towing capacity is comparable to many other SUVs in the segment, providing versatility for various towing needs.
The CX-90 offers a generous cargo area that enhances its utility for hauling. With both rows of seating folded down, it provides 75.2 cubic feet of cargo space, offering ample room for transporting goods. The powerful engine choices, including a 3.3L inline six-cylinder turbo and a plug-in hybrid, further bolster its performance capabilities.
Best Subcompact SUV: 2022 Mazda CX-30
The 2022 Mazda CX-30 is a standout in the subcompact SUV category, boasting a stylish design and high-quality interior that rivals some luxury models. Its interior features an 8.8-inch infotainment screen and a range of driver-assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control and automated emergency braking, enhancing both convenience and safety.
Mazda standardized all-wheel drive across the CX-30 mazda lineup for 2022, improving its utility and stability. The CX-30 is powered by a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 186 horsepower, with an optional turbocharged version generating 250 horsepower, providing robust performance options for different driving preferences.
With a fuel economy rating of up to 31 mpg on the highway, the CX-30 offers an efficient option for those in the subcompact SUV segment. Its practical cargo space accommodates six carry-on suitcases behind the rear seats and a total of 16 with the seats folded down, making it a versatile choice for everyday use.
Summary
In summary, Mazda continues to impress with its diverse lineup of vehicles in 2024. From the best compact SUVs like the Mazda CX-5 to luxurious options like the Mazda CX-50, and practical family cars like the Mazda CX-9, there is something for everyone. The Mazda CX-90 PHEV offers a top hybrid option, while the Mazda MX-5 Miata remains a favorite for sporty performance.
For those looking at the used car market, discontinued models such as the 2012 Mazda CX-7, 2014 Mazda Mazda 2, and 2015 Mazda Mazda 5 still offer great value and reliability. The 2024 Mazda CX-90 stands out for its towing capacity, and the 2022 Mazda CX-30 shines in the subcompact SUV category. No matter your needs, Mazda has a vehicle that fits the bill, blending performance, luxury, and practicality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best compact SUV in Mazda’s lineup for 2024?**?
The 2024 Mazda CX-5 stands out as the best compact SUV in Mazda’s lineup due to its upscale interior, engaging driving dynamics, and competitive pricing.
Which Mazda vehicle offers the best hybrid option for 2024?**?
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV is the best hybrid option, boasting a powerful hybrid powertrain and a noteworthy electric range.
What makes the 2024 Mazda CX-50 a great luxury vehicle choice?**?
The 2024 Mazda CX-50 stands out as a luxury vehicle due to its spacious and upscale interior, coupled with a powerful turbocharged engine and engaging driving dynamics. This combination ensures a premium driving experience that consistently impresses.
Which Mazda car is the sportiest for 2024?**?
The 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata stands out as the sportiest option, celebrated for its exhilarating driving experience and lightweight construction.
What is the best Mazda vehicle for towing in 2024?**?
The best Mazda vehicle for towing in 2024 is the Mazda CX-90, which has a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. This makes it an excellent choice for those needing robust towing capabilities.
