Over the past decade, Mazda has quietly transformed from a small Japanese automaker into a serious contender in the highly competitive U.S. car market. Known once mainly for the Miata sports car, Mazda is now making waves with stylish crossovers, innovative technology, and strong reliability ratings. But with so many options for American buyers, the question remains: Mazda’s Rise in the US Market: Are They Really Worth Buying?
Today’s U.S. drivers want vehicles that balance safety, efficiency, affordability, and a little bit of driving excitement. Mazda claims to offer all of these—often at a lower price than rivals like Toyota, Honda, or luxury brands such as Lexus and Acura. But are they really delivering on that promise?
In this article, we’ll explore Mazda’s rise in the American market, digging into reliability, maintenance costs, resale value, and safety. We’ll also compare key models to see if Mazda truly deserves your attention in 2025. By the end, you’ll know if Mazda is the smart choice for your next car purchase.
Quick Overview of Mazda in the U.S. Market
Mazda first entered the U.S. in the 1970s, gaining early recognition with its rotary-engine sports cars. However, its real growth came in the 2000s with the introduction of fuel-efficient sedans like the Mazda3 and SUVs like the CX-5.
In 2023, Mazda sold over 363,000 vehicles in the United States, a significant increase compared to previous years. The CX-5 remains its best-selling model, accounting for nearly half of its U.S. sales. Mazda has also gained praise for its “Kodo” design language, which emphasizes sleek, premium styling that rivals luxury brands at a lower cost.
Unlike Toyota and Honda, Mazda positions itself as a more driver-focused brand, appealing to buyers who want a fun-to-drive car without sacrificing reliability or practicality.
Key Factors to Consider
Reliability & Durability
According to Consumer Reports 2024, Mazda ranked No. 2 overall in brand reliability, just behind Lexus. J.D. Power also scores Mazda above average for long-term dependability, especially in models like the CX-5 and Mazda3. Owners frequently report reaching 200,000+ miles with routine maintenance, making Mazda one of the most reliable mainstream brands in the U.S.
Maintenance & Repair Costs
Mazda is relatively affordable to maintain compared to luxury brands. RepairPal estimates annual maintenance costs at about $462 per year, lower than Toyota ($441) and significantly lower than German brands like BMW ($968). Over five years, the average Mazda owner spends around $2,300–$2,600 on upkeep, making it one of the best value brands in its class.
