Mazda for a first car… is it a good idea?

Hi everyone,

I’m planning to buy my first car here in Canada. I’m in my early 30s and leaning toward a crossover.

Can anyone give me some advice? Which Mazda model is a good option for me? Should I go for a new one or get a pre-owned?

If I go pre-owned, what are the things I need to watch out for? I’m new to cars and don’t know much about them. Thanks in advance!

Honestly, Mazdas are right up there with Toyotas and maybe even better than newer Hondas.

I bought a 2016 Mazda 3 Hatchback with automatic transmission at 65,000 km back in 2020. Now I’m at 190,000 km and have only done regular maintenance.

It drives great in the snow, even though it’s not AWD. It’s fun to drive and looks sharp, in my opinion.

I’d definitely buy another. In fact, we’re currently considering a CX-5.

You really can’t go wrong with a CX-5. It’s my second Mazda, and I’m loving it!

Once you get a Mazda, you’ll probably stick with them!

If you’re single, go for a Mazda 3 hatchback turbo. Pre-owned ones are great too. I bought a 2021 used CX-9 Carbon Edition and couldn’t be happier.

Make sure to get a certified pre-owned model though. I didn’t, and it came with less warranty coverage. Still, I’m not worried because Mazdas are super reliable.

@Dru
I’m married but don’t have kids yet. The Mazda 3 looks great, but the backseat seems pretty tight.

Nate said:
@Dru
I’m married but don’t have kids yet. The Mazda 3 looks great, but the backseat seems pretty tight.

You might want to check out the CX-5. The design feels a bit dated to me, but it’s incredibly reliable.

@Dru
I’d recommend the Mazda 3 too! It’s an awesome car overall. If backseat space isn’t a dealbreaker, it could still work well for you.

The CX-30 is a solid option if you don’t need much space. I’ve owned one of those and a Mazda 3. Let me know if you have questions about either—I’d be happy to share my experience.

Sky said:
The CX-30 is a solid option if you don’t need much space. I’ve owned one of those and a Mazda 3. Let me know if you have questions about either—I’d be happy to share my experience.

I like the CX-30, but I’m a bit unsure about the rear seat space.

@Nate
Yeah, but it’s such a cool-looking car!

I just got a new CX-5 and absolutely love it. Going pre-owned is a great idea too—plenty of space for a small family.

I recently upgraded from my 2010 Mazda 3 to a CX-50 turbo, and I’m loving it! I’m in my early 30s, married with no kids, and have two corgis.

My Mazda 3 was getting too small for trips with all of us, and I preferred the CX-50’s look and feel over the CX-5. My Mazda 3 lasted me 15 years with just routine maintenance, so I’d say they’re pretty reliable.

Test drive a few models and see which one fits you best. No matter what, you can’t go wrong with a Mazda!

Mazda has been my first, second, third, and fourth car. Not my fifth though.

Zeph said:
Mazda has been my first, second, third, and fourth car. Not my fifth though.

What are you switching to?

Channing said:

Zeph said:
Mazda has been my first, second, third, and fourth car. Not my fifth though.

What are you switching to?

A RAV4.

Zeph said:

Channing said:
Zeph said:
Mazda has been my first, second, third, and fourth car. Not my fifth though.

What are you switching to?

A RAV4.

Boo… just kidding. Nice car!

@Channing
I loved my Mazdas, but the newer ones just aren’t as practical. My last one had a bunch of warranty repairs—engine, shocks, brakes, electronics, even two infotainment screens. Still, it drove like a dream.

Zeph said:
Mazda has been my first, second, third, and fourth car. Not my fifth though.

Careful with the RAV4. My brother had an accident because of a stuck accelerator, and it didn’t end well. Another friend’s mom had to crash into trees to stop hers. Be cautious!

Mazda’s petrol engines are very reliable, but I’d avoid the diesels—they can be problematic.

Zen said:
Mazda’s petrol engines are very reliable, but I’d avoid the diesels—they can be problematic.

I haven’t had any issues with my CX-70 diesel, though.