Handling, Upscale Interiors and Safety Give Mazda an Edge for 2026

The choice of new or newly redesigned models introduced each year is, well, pretty mind-boggling. That’s why there are experts like Car and Driver and Consumer Reports to provide some guidance. We’re very proud that Mazda figures substantially in their suggestions for 2026.

Car and Driver

Four Mazda models are among the vehicles cited by Car and Driver. This review publication – now online – has been reviewing and ranking vehicles since 1955! In the “2026 Editors’ Choice: The Best Cars, Trucks, SUVs, and Minivans,” the editors cite four Mazda models:

• 2026 Mazda CX-30 (Best Subcompact SUV) was an editor’s favorite for the CX-30’s “Lithe and sporty chassis, class-above interior, standard features aplenty.” The 2026 CX-30 is “one of the few in its class to offer a genuinely premium cabin and enough driving verve to keep you entertained while zipping down winding backroads.” Sounds ideal for Colorado.
• The 2026 Mazda CX-50 (Compact SUV) excited for some of the same reasons. “Playful handling, luxury-adjacent interior, available with a lively turbo four.” The editors called the Mazda CX-50 out for being “a premium model in a mainstream class, the CX-50 is a compact crossover for those in the know.” 
• There’s still a market for passenger cars – particularly if you’re not hauling a lot of gear or a pet. Car and Driver editors highlighted the 2026 Mazda 3 (Compact Car). They particularly liked the Mazda 3’s “Posh interior, engaging to drive, manual transmission and all-wheel-drive options.”
• The Mazda MX-5 Miata has been a fan favorite since the Miata was introduced. The editors continue to lavish the 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata with praise: “A joy to drive, accessible pricing, open-top freedom comes standard.” They called it “purpose-built for driving enthusiasts.” Our translation: it’s tons of fun!

These Mazda models were singled out by Car and Driver experts after driving and evaluating about 450 models across 47 different segments. Tough competition, but Mazda stood out, as we never doubted it would!

Consumer Reports

The venerable nonprofit, independent testing organization has a new metric consumers can use to make educated choices on vehicle purchases. Recently CR added a new safety standard for vehicles, and named Mazda the carmaker that “makes the safest new cars on the road.” 

The “Safety Verdict” rating system that is based on “proven features, track performance, and crash test results.” It’s just one more tool in consumers’ toolbox to aid in making a vehicle purchase … one that leads to Mazda.