Built To Impress—Or Distress

Mazda has earned love for its fun-to-drive rides and eye-catching design. But let’s be honest—some trims just miss the mark. Maybe it's weak styling, cramped cabins, or tech that already feels outdated. Ultimately, you'll need to dig deeper to find models that are both safe and stylish on the road, while providing all the comforts on the inside. Before you hit the showroom, read this list, where we’ve cut through the hype to help you make a smarter choice. First up: 10 Mazdas you'll Regret Buying.

1. Mazda CX-30

The 2024 CX-30 earned just 2 out of 5 stars from Consumer Reports, citing low owner satisfaction and weak value perception. Limited cargo space—only 20.2 cubic feet—trails rivals like the HR-V. Tech issues persist, including laggy Mazda Connect software.

2. Mazda5 (2015–2017)

Despite a minivan silhouette, the Mazda5 lacks sliding doors and modern family features. It hasn’t seen a proper update since 2012, which makes even newer units feel outdated. With just 157 hp, it strains under a full passenger load.

3. Mazda CX-9

The CX-9 lacks modern touches like a digital gauge cluster or wireless Apple CarPlay. Its 2.5L turbo engine falls behind V6 rivals in towing power. Adults won’t enjoy the third row’s cramped 29.7-inch legroom.

4. Mazda MX-30 EV

With a range of just 100 miles, the 2023 MX-30 falls short of nearly all electric competitors. It's only sold in California, and this limits access to services and incentives. It offers less than cheaper, more capable EVs.

5. Mazda CX-50 2.5 S

The base CX-50 engine outputs 187 hp, which is too underwhelming for a midsize SUV. No true off-road trim exists despite rugged marketing. Its infotainment screen disables touch controls while driving. The whole cabin is louder than segment leaders like the Honda CR-V.

6. Mazda6 (2021 And Later)

Though production stopped in 2021, new Mazda6 units lingered into 2023, missing out on recent tech like adaptive cruise control with lane centering. For many, the trunk space and rear headroom are insufficient. Compared to modern sedans, it feels behind the curve.

7. Mazda3 Hatchback (Premium Plus)

Rear visibility is severely restricted in this model due to the hatch’s sloped roofline. Even with a backup camera, parking remains tricky. Furthermore, CarBuzz noted that its 18-inch wheels increase ride harshness—definitely not worth it.

8. Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select

This trim skips key conveniences like a power liftgate and rear air vents—features standard now in many of its class. As per U.S. News, the car’s 187-hp engine struggles at highway speeds. Off-road use is also limited despite AWD.

9. Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

The RF’s retractable hardtop cuts trunk space to just 4.5 cubic feet—barely enough for daily use. Moreover, Road & Track noted increased wind noise compared to the soft top. Poor winter traction also makes it impractical for colder regions, even with snow tires.

10. Mazda CX-90 PHEV

New for 2024, the CX-90 plug-in hybrid shows early hiccups—Car and Driver called the power mode transitions sluggish. At over $50K, it enters luxury pricing but misses on ride refinement. On top of that, long-term PHEV reliability is still untested.

Next up are 10 well-rounded Mazdas that deliver standout value.

1. Mazda CX-5 Turbo Signature

Under $40,000, the CX-5 Turbo Signature delivers 256 hp and upscale touches like Nappa leather and wood trim. IIHS named it a 2024 Top Safety Pick for strong crash prevention and lighting performance. This one’s a hidden luxury gem.

2. Mazda MX-5 Miata (Soft Top)

Weighing less than 2,400 pounds, the 2024 Miata (Soft Top) remains one of the most agile sports cars on the market. Car and Driver included it in its “10Best” under-$35K list. A 6-speed manual and 34 mpg highway fuel economy make it a rare blend of driving joy and efficiency.

3. Mazda3 Hatchback (Base Or Select Trim)

Standard safety tech like forward collision warning and lane assist comes even on base models. The 191-hp engine enables peppy performance versus rivals’ sluggish base trims. U.S. News lauded its upscale interior and intuitive controls. This makes it one of 2024’s top compact picks.

4. Mazda CX-50 Turbo Premium Plus

With 256 hp and a standard AWD, the CX-50 balances road manners with weekend trail capability. It has a surprisingly athletic handling. Interior perks like a head-up display and panoramic moonroof round out its premium feel at a reasonable price point.

5. Mazda CX-30 Turbo Premium

Standard AWD and 250 hp give the CX-30 Turbo serious power for a subcompact SUV. Kelley Blue Book compared its stylish interior to luxury brands. Priced under $36,000 fully loaded, it undercuts small BMW and Audi crossovers while offering more torque and better winter grip.

6. Mazda3 Sedan 2.5 S Carbon Edition

The Carbon Edition brings red leather seats and Polymetal Gray paint for standout curb appeal. Premium touches like a moonroof, and Bose audio system come standard. Edmunds praised its refined ride and quiet cabin, which gives it an edge in a crowded midsize segment.

7. Mazda CX-90 Inline-6 Turbo

This three-row SUV features Mazda’s new 3.3L turbo inline-six, producing 340 hp and using a rear-biased AWD setup. Its handling is impressive for a vehicle under $60K. Interior accents like maple wood and suede complete its upscale, driver-first experience.

8. Mazda CX-5 2.5 Carbon Turbo

Turbocharged power and blacked-out details give the Carbon Turbo real visual and performance appeal. NHTSA awarded it a 5-star overall safety rating for 2024. Dual-zone climate and heated front and rear seats add comfort that’s usually missing at its price level.

9. Mazda3 2.5 Turbo AWD Premium Plus

This trim blends sharp acceleration—0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds—with all-wheel traction for confident year-round driving. Inside, you’ll find premium touches like a Bose audio system and head-up display. It topped Consumer Reports’ 2023 small car satisfaction survey.

10. Mazda MX-5 Miata Club

The Club trim amps up handling with Bilstein shocks and a front shock brace—perfect for weekend autocross. Car and Driver ranked it the best affordable performance convertible for 2024. It’s SCCA track-ready out of the box, making it a go-to for driving purists on a budget.