Mazda has always been the car maker that does things a bit differently. For example, while rivals were building small, turbocharged engines, Mazda stuck with larger, naturally aspirated units. It is a company that quietly goes about its business, building cars that prioritise driving pleasure, elegant design, and a level of interior quality that punches well above its price tag. From the legendary MX-5 roadster to its growing stable of stylish SUVs, there's a distinctly different flavour to everything that wears the Mazda badge – and that's precisely what makes them so appealing.
Whether you're after an open-top sports car, a family-friendly SUV with genuine driver appeal, or even Mazda's first crack at a fully electric saloon, there's something in the current line-up for just about everyone. We've put together this guide to help you navigate the best Mazda cars and SUVs available right now, highlighting the models that truly stand out in terms of quality, value, and the sheer joy of getting behind the wheel.
About this guide
The cars in this guide have been selected to represent the best options currently available. Our recommendations are the result of a unique three-part scoring system that takes into account real-world tests from our team of expert reviewers, ratings from real-life owners who live with these cars every day, and an analysis of market data from CarGurus UK to identify which models offer the highest percentage of good and great deals. This combined approach ensures our list highlights cars that are not only great to own but also good value to buy.
The Best Mazda Cars and SUVs
- 2026 Mazda MX-5
- 2026 Mazda CX-5
- 2026 Mazda Mazda3
- 2026 Mazda CX-30
- 2026 Mazda CX-60
- 2026 Mazda CX-80
- 2026 Mazda 6e
CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31.1%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Irresistibly fun to drive |
A bit cramped for tall drivers |
| Extremely reliable |
Early cars have less safety kit than later models |
| Affordable to buy and run for a sports car |
The boot is small |
The Mazda MX-5 is the definitive affordable sports car, and this fourth-generation model is arguably the best yet. It's all about the driving experience, with a lightweight body, rear-wheel drive, and a choice of two lively petrol engines. The entry-level 1.5-litre produces 130bhp, which is plenty for spirited B-road blasts, but enthusiasts might prefer the 2.0-litre, especially post-2018 models which saw power boosted to a punchy 181bhp. Whichever you choose, the slick six-speed manual gearbox is a joy to use, and the agile handling makes every journey feel special. It's a car that proves you don't need huge power to have huge fun.
Of course, a laser-focus on driving pleasure means compromises elsewhere. The two-seater cabin is snug, particularly for taller drivers, and the 130-litre boot won't be troubling a family hatchback for practicality. But that's not the point of an MX-5. Instead, you get a car that's incredibly cheap to run for the performance on offer, with many owners reporting over 40mpg in real-world driving. The manually operated soft-top is brilliantly simple, dropping in seconds for instant open-air fun. It's a pure, back-to-basics roadster that delivers smiles-per-mile like few other cars on the road.
The CarGurus Verdict: "This is a sports car that's in tune with modern road conditions where huge horsepower simply leads to driving frustration: the MX-5 mk4 uses a little to do a lot, and is all the more rewarding because for it." - Brett Fraser, contributor
Read our full Mazda MX-5 review
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.9%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Good ride comfort |
No hybrid or plug-in hybrid options |
| Roomy and practical interior |
Engine lacks a bit of power |
| Handles well for an SUV |
Over-reliance on touchscreen for some core controls |
The Mazda CX-5 has long been the company's best-seller in the UK, and this latest version shows why. It leans into what makes a great family SUV by significantly boosting practicality. The interior feels almost limousine-like in the back, and the boot has grown to a very useful 583 litres, making it one of the largest in its class. Mazda has also given the cabin a serious uplift in quality, with soft-touch materials and a premium design that could give some German rivals a run for their money. It's a compelling package for buyers who need space and a touch of class.
True to Mazda's roots, the CX-5 doesn't forget the driver. It's one of the more engaging SUVs to drive, with steering and handling that feel satisfyingly precise. The choice of a non-turbocharged 2.5-litre petrol engine with 138bhp is an interesting one. While it might not have the instant punch of turbocharged rivals, it offers a smooth, natural response that many will find refreshing. This focus on a more traditional, reliable powertrain, combined with its dynamic feel, makes the CX-5 a standout choice in a crowded market.
The CarGurus Verdict: "For Mazda CX-5 loyalists, the latest model is a fine evolution. The new button-free infotainment will take some getting used to, but the extra functionality of Google built-in makes it a welcome trade." - Richard Aucock, contributor
Read our full Mazda CX-5 review
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 30.5%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Stunning styling for a family hatchback |
Far from the most spacious car in its class |
| High-quality fit and finish |
Naturally aspirated petrol engines need lots of revs |
| Satisfying to drive, with nimble handling and a comfortable ride |
Relatively high emissions |
The Mazda3 is easily one of the most stylish family hatchbacks on the market, with a sleek, minimalist design that sets it apart from rivals like the Volkswagen Golf. That premium feel continues inside, where you'll find a beautifully crafted cabin that feels more expensive than it is. While it's comfortable and well-equipped up front, space in the back is a bit tight, and the small windows can make it feel a little dark for passengers. The hatchback's boot offers 334 litres of space, which is usable but smaller than what you'll find in some key competitors.
On the road, the Mazda3 is a joy to drive, with precise steering and a comfortable, composed ride that makes it a great all-rounder. It's as engaging as a Ford Focus, yet it feels mature and refined on long motorway journeys. Mazda has taken a unique approach with its engines, opting for larger, naturally-aspirated petrol units instead of the small, turbocharged engines common elsewhere. The result is smooth power delivery, but you'll need to work the gears and rev the engine to get the best from it. The 184bhp Skyactiv-X engine is the pick of the bunch, offering a good blend of performance and economy.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Mazda3 is a thoroughly likeable car that offers distinct design, a finely tuned driving experience, and just about enough space to suit a modest family." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
Read our full Mazda3 review
CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 29.6%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.1 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Head-turning looks, inside and out |
Skyactiv-X engine is sophisticated, but sluggish in the mid-range |
| Good to drive |
Rear legroom is in short supply |
| Choice of front- and four-wheel drive |
Boot is small and lacks clever features |
The Mazda CX-30 slips into the range between the Mazda3 hatchback and the larger CX-5, offering the style of a coupe with the raised ride height of an SUV. It's a real head-turner, but the premium feel continues inside. The cabin is a masterclass in minimalist design, with a quality that could give some BMWs a run for their money. All models get a head-up display, and the infotainment system is controlled by a rotary dial, which Mazda argues is less distracting than a touchscreen. It's a stylish and sophisticated package that feels a cut above many of its rivals.
Under the bonnet, you'll find a choice of two petrol engines, including the entry-level 138bhp Skyactiv-G and the more advanced 184bhp Skyactiv-X, which promises diesel-like economy. While neither engine feels particularly punchy, the CX-30 is a joy to drive, borrowing the slick manual gearshift from the MX-5 sports car and combining it with responsive steering and a smooth ride. In terms of practicality, the 430-litre boot is a decent size, though rivals like the Skoda Karoq offer more space, and rear legroom is a little tight for taller passengers.
The CarGurus Verdict: "Leaving aside the issue of whether it really qualifies as an SUV, the Mazda CX-30 is an eye-catching car that's good to drive, generally refined, and has a well-made, stylish interior. There's all-wheel drive if you really need it, and the option of a six-speed automatic gearbox, but the manual is so much better." - Brett Fraser, contributor
Read our full Mazda CX-30 review
CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: Insufficient user reviews
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 30.4%
Overall CarGurus rating: 3.9 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| High quality interior |
Slightly firm ride |
| Large boot |
Plug-in hybrid tech could be more polished |
| Enjoyable to drive |
Reliability concerns |
The CX-60 represents Mazda's push into the premium SUV market, designed to compete with established German rivals. It stands out with Mazda's unique engine philosophy, favouring larger, more efficient engines over smaller, harder-working units. This is seen in its 2.5-litre plug-in hybrid and 3.3-litre mild-hybrid diesel options. Practicality is a strong suit, with the powered tailgate opening to reveal a generous 570-litre boot, which is more space than most plug-in hybrid competitors offer. The practicality extends further with 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats that fold completely flat, creating a huge 1,726-litre load area without an annoying step in the floor.
On the road, the CX-60 lives up to Mazda's reputation for creating engaging cars. The suspension is set up to be on the firmer side, which gives the driver a great sense of connection to the road and keeps body roll in check through corners. The plug-in hybrid is the most powerful option, with a combined 323bhp that delivers a brisk 0-62mph time of 5.8 seconds. Inside, the premium feel continues with a high-quality cabin that's generously equipped even on the entry-level Exclusive-Line trim. All models get a large 12.3-inch central screen, a digital driver's display, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel, making it a comfortable and tech-filled place to be.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The CX-60 is a typical Mazda in that it delivers an engaging driving experience and lots of creature comforts in a package that looks stylish and feels well made." - Gavin Braithwaite-Smith, contributor
Read our full Mazda CX-60 review
CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: Insufficient user reviews
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.3%
Overall CarGurus rating: 3.7 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Big diesel is great for high-mileage drivers |
Ride comfort could be better |
| Cabin quality is impressive |
Refined driving experience |
| Excellent crash safety rating |
Looks expensive next to rivals from Kia and Hyundai |
Mazda is expanding its SUV line-up, and the new CX-80 is its biggest and boldest offering yet. As a seven-seat family SUV, it sits above the popular CX-60 and takes on rivals like the Skoda Kodiaq and Hyundai Santa Fe. True to form, Mazda isn't just following the crowd. It's offering a brand-new 3.3-litre six-cylinder diesel engine, a brave move when others are ditching diesel, which promises impressive efficiency of almost 50mpg. For those looking to lower their emissions, there's also a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version, combining a 2.5-litre petrol engine with a battery for a useful all-electric range of up to 38 miles.
Practicality is where a big SUV needs to shine, and the CX-80 delivers. With the third row of seats folded down, you get a generous 687 litres of boot space. Even with all seven seats in use, there's a usable 258 litres left for a buggy or a few shopping bags. Mazda has also included thoughtful touches, like a spot under the boot floor to store the parcel shelf. The cabin feels spacious and classy, especially in the higher-spec Takumi trims with their plush leather and wood finishes, giving it a feel that nips at the heels of more premium German rivals. Plus, with a towing capacity of 2,500kg for both engine types, it's a truly versatile workhorse.
The CarGurus Verdict: "The Mazda CX-80 is a good, honest and likeable big SUV. For those who like the slightly different character and appeal of the Mazda, it'll be a charming and versatile family car." - Vicky Parrott, contributing editor
Read our full Mazda CX-80 review
CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: Insufficient user reviews
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 0%
Overall CarGurus rating: 3.5 out of 5
| Pros |
Cons |
| Decent to drive |
Touchscreen infotainment system |
| Roomy interior |
Appalling rear visibility |
| Strong on cabin quality |
Not clear on price |
In a world increasingly dominated by SUVs, Mazda is doing what it does best: going its own way. The 6e is the all-electric successor to the much-loved Mazda 6 family car, and it steadfastly remains a sleek saloon rather than a high-riding crossover. At nearly five metres long, it's a spacious machine designed to take on rivals like the Volkswagen ID.7 and Hyundai Ioniq 6. It's a bold move, but one that could pay off for buyers who still appreciate the style and driving dynamics of a traditional family car.
Under the skin, buyers will have a choice of two rear-wheel-drive powertrains. The Standard Range model offers 254bhp and a claimed 298 miles of range, while the Long Range version has a slightly lower 242bhp output but boosts range to 348 miles. On the road, the 6e is quiet, comfortable, and responsive, with the eagerness you'd expect from a Mazda. Inside, there's plenty of legroom for passengers and a usefully large 72-litre 'frunk' under the bonnet for extra storage, though the official boot space figure of 337 litres seems surprisingly small for such a large car.
The CarGurus Verdict: "We'll make no bones about it, we think that Mazda's use of complicated touchscreen technology in the 6e is a serious retrograde step. However, to judge the car solely on these factors would be grossly unfair, and the fact remains that there's a lot to like otherwise." - Ivan Aistrop, senior editor
Read our full Mazda 6e review
FAQ
Are Mazda cars reliable?
For the most part, Mazda has built a strong reputation for reliability over the years, consistently performing well in owner satisfaction surveys and industry studies. The brand's commitment to simpler, naturally aspirated engines and well-proven technology means fewer things tend to go wrong. Models like the MX-5 and CX-5 are particularly well regarded for their long-term dependability, making Mazda a solid choice for buyers who want peace of mind.
Which Mazda SUV is the best for families?
For most families, the Mazda CX-5 hits the sweet spot, offering a spacious interior, a generous 583-litre boot, and an engaging driving experience. However, if you need seven seats, the CX-80 is the one to look at, with three rows of seating and a towing capacity of 2,500kg. For smaller families or those who prioritise style, the CX-30 is a compact and attractive alternative, though its rear legroom and boot space are more limited.
Is the Mazda MX-5 a practical daily driver?
The MX-5 can absolutely be used as a daily driver, and many owners do exactly that. It's cheap to run, with real-world fuel economy often exceeding 40mpg, and it's small enough to make city driving and parking straightforward. That said, you'll need to accept its limitations: the cabin is snug, especially for taller drivers, and the 130-litre boot is tiny. If you don't regularly need to carry passengers or large loads, it's one of the most enjoyable cars you can commute in.
What is the Mazda 6e, and how far can it go on a single charge?
The Mazda 6e is Mazda's first fully electric car, reviving the Mazda 6 nameplate as a sleek, nearly five-metre-long saloon. It comes in two variants: the Standard Range model offers a claimed 298 miles of range, while the Long Range version extends that to 348 miles. Both are rear-wheel drive and promise the kind of responsive, engaging driving experience Mazda is known for.
Do Mazda cars hold their value well?
Mazda models tend to hold their value reasonably well, particularly popular choices like the CX-5 and MX-5. Mazda's reputation for reliability and build quality also works in its favour, as buyers are willing to pay more for a used car they know they can trust.
Which Mazda has the best fuel economy?
Among Mazda's petrol and diesel models, the CX-80 with its 3.3-litre six-cylinder diesel engine is the most efficient, with claimed figures of around 50mpg – impressive for such a large seven-seat SUV. The CX-60 plug-in hybrid offers the lowest official emissions thanks to its electric-only driving capability, though real-world economy depends heavily on how often you charge it. For a pure petrol option, the MX-5's lightweight design means many owners comfortably achieve over 40mpg in everyday driving.
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Most car buying websites publish lists of the best cars across a variety of categories, with recommendations generally driven by editorial expertise. Here's what makes our best cars guides different: we combine the insights and verdicts of our team of car-testing experts with other factors that we know matter to buyers - real owner experiences and current market value.
To that end, our expert reviewers come from some of the UK's most trusted automotive publications including What Car?, The Telegraph, Auto Trader, Electrifying.com, and Carbuyer. They put each car through real-world testing, and create detailed reviews noting performance in a range of categories, from practicality and driving manners, to running costs and reliability.
But we don't stop there when it comes to creating our best cars guides; we also analyse hundreds of thousands of used car listings on CarGurus UK to track which models consistently offer the highest percentage of best deals relative to how many are listed for sale. Then we factor in user reviews and ratings gathered on CarGurus to get feedback from people who actually live with these cars every day. Our best cars algorithm then creates a final Overall CarGurus rating that combines expert ratings, user reviews, and the percentage of listings on CarGurus UK rated as good or great deals. This three-way approach reveals not just which cars excel on paper, but which ones deliver satisfaction and value when you're ready to buy.
The CarGurus UK market data in this guide was last updated in April 2026. Values were accurate at time of publication and should be used as a guide only.
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