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.
Resale Value in the USA
Kelley Blue Book shows Mazda holding resale value well, though not as strongly as Toyota. After 5 years, most Mazda vehicles retain about 50–55% of their original value, compared to Toyota’s 60% or Honda’s 58%. However, SUVs like the CX-5 and CX-50 perform better than sedans, thanks to the ongoing demand for crossovers in the U.S.
Safety & Technology Features
Mazda has invested heavily in safety and consistently earns IIHS Top Safety Pick+ awards for models like the CX-5, CX-50, and Mazda3. Key features include:
- i-Activsense Safety Suite: Adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking.
- Airbag coverage across all rows.
- Infotainment upgrades: Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and premium Bose audio options.
Mazda’s interiors are also gaining attention for their luxury-like feel, rivaling brands that cost thousands more.
Comparison Table: Popular Mazda Models (2025)
| Model | Starting Price (2025) | MPG (City/Hwy) | Seating Capacity | Annual Maint. | Safety Rating (NHTSA) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mazda3 Sedan | $25,000 | 28/37 | 5 | ~$450 | 5 Stars |
| Mazda CX-5 | $30,000 | 26/33 | 5 | ~$470 | 5 Stars |
| Mazda CX-50 | $32,500 | 25/31 | 5 | ~$480 | 5 Stars |
| Mazda CX-90 | $40,000 | 24/29 | 7–8 | ~$520 | 5 Stars |
Pros and Cons of Mazda CX-5
Pros:
- Stylish design with premium feel.
- Excellent safety ratings.
- Fun-to-drive handling compared to rivals.
- Affordable maintenance.
Cons:
- Smaller cargo space than some competitors.
- Resale value slightly below Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V.
Pros and Cons of Mazda CX-90
Pros:
- Newest flagship SUV with three-row seating.
- Available plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version.
- Upscale interior close to luxury brands.
- Strong safety and tech features.
Cons:
- Higher starting price compared to other Mazda models.
- Fuel economy average for its size.
Who Should Choose Mazda CX-5 vs Mazda CX-90?
- College Students & Young Professionals: Mazda3 or CX-30 for affordability, efficiency, and sporty driving.
- Small Families: The CX-5 is the sweet spot with its balance of comfort, style, and safety.
- Large Families: The CX-90 offers three rows and hybrid options, making it ideal for households with kids and long trips.
- Adventure Enthusiasts: The CX-50 provides extra ground clearance and rugged styling for outdoor lifestyles.
Expert Opinions & Customer Reviews
- Consumer Reports: Ranked Mazda CX-5 among the most reliable compact SUVs for 2024.
- Edmunds: Praises Mazda interiors as “luxury-level at non-luxury prices.”
- Owner Testimonial (Mazda3 driver, California): “I’ve had my Mazda3 for 7 years and it still feels fun to drive every day. Maintenance has been very affordable.”
- Owner Testimonial (CX-5 owner, New York): “The AWD is perfect for snowy winters, and the car feels much more premium than its price tag.”
Final Verdict: Is Mazda Worth It in 2025?
So, Mazda’s rise in the U.S. market: are they really worth buying? The answer is yes—especially if you’re looking for a balance of affordability, reliability, and driving enjoyment.
Mazda may not hold resale value as strongly as Toyota or Honda, but it makes up for it with premium styling, fun-to-drive dynamics, and safety features that rival luxury brands. In 2025, Mazda is one of the smartest choices for American families, commuters, and young professionals who want more than just a basic car.
