Mazda’s Best-Sellers: A Comprehensive Guide to Fuel Economy and Performance
Discover the top 10 best-selling Mazda models, renowned for their stylish designs and impressive fuel efficiency. This comprehensive guide covers fuel tank capacities, efficiency ratings, and electric performance for hybrid and electric variants. From the popular Mazda CX-5 to the sporty Mazda MX-5 Miata, learn how Mazda’s innovative Skyactiv technology enhances driving dynamics while maximizing fuel economy. Explore the evolution of each model and see how Mazda is embracing electrification with new offerings like the CX-90 PHEV. Perfect for car enthusiasts and eco-conscious drivers alike!
1. Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 compact crossover SUV has been the brand’s best-selling model globally since its introduction in 2012. Now in its second generation, the CX-5 continues to impress with its upscale interior, engaging driving dynamics, and efficient powertrains.
Fuel Tank Capacity
The 2024 Mazda CX-5 has a fuel tank capacity of 14.8 gallons (56 liters) across all trim levels.
Fuel Efficiency
2024 Mazda CX-5 fuel economy ratings:
- 2.5L 4-cylinder engine (FWD): 26 mpg city / 32 mpg highway / 28 mpg combined
- 2.5L 4-cylinder engine (AWD): 24 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 26 mpg combined
- 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine (AWD): 22 mpg city / 27 mpg highway / 24 mpg combined
Efficiency Across Generations
First generation (2013-2016):
- 2.0L 4-cylinder: Up to 26 mpg city / 35 mpg highway
- 2.5L 4-cylinder: Up to 25 mpg city / 32 mpg highway
Second generation (2017-present):
- 2.5L 4-cylinder: Up to 25 mpg city / 31 mpg highway (improved to 26/32 mpg in later model years)
- 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder: Up to 23 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
The CX-5 has seen incremental improvements in fuel efficiency over its lifespan, with the introduction of Mazda’s Skyactiv technology playing a significant role in boosting mpg ratings.
2. Mazda3
The Mazda3 compact car has long been a cornerstone of the Mazda lineup, known for its sporty handling and premium feel. Available in both sedan and hatchback body styles, the Mazda3 offers a range of efficient powertrain options.
Fuel Tank Capacity
The 2024 Mazda3 has a fuel tank capacity of 13.2 gallons (50 liters) for both sedan and hatchback models.
Fuel Efficiency
2024 Mazda3 fuel economy ratings:
- 2.0L 4-cylinder engine (FWD): 28 mpg city / 36 mpg highway / 31 mpg combined
- 2.5L 4-cylinder engine (FWD): 26 mpg city / 35 mpg highway / 30 mpg combined
- 2.5L 4-cylinder engine (AWD): 25 mpg city / 33 mpg highway / 28 mpg combined
- 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine (AWD): 23 mpg city / 32 mpg highway / 26 mpg combined
Efficiency Across Generations
Third generation (2014-2018):
- 2.0L 4-cylinder: Up to 30 mpg city / 41 mpg highway
- 2.5L 4-cylinder: Up to 28 mpg city / 39 mpg highway
Fourth generation (2019-present):
- 2.0L 4-cylinder: Up to 28 mpg city / 36 mpg highway
- 2.5L 4-cylinder: Up to 26 mpg city / 35 mpg highway
- 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder: Up to 23 mpg city / 32 mpg highway
The Mazda3 has maintained competitive fuel efficiency throughout its generations, with the introduction of more powerful engine options slightly impacting overall mpg in recent years.
3. Mazda CX-30
Introduced in 2020, the Mazda CX-30 is a subcompact crossover SUV that slots between the CX-3 and CX-5 in size. It has quickly become one of Mazda’s most popular models, offering a blend of style, practicality, and efficiency.
Fuel Tank Capacity
The 2024 Mazda CX-30 has a fuel tank capacity of 13.5 gallons (51 liters).
Fuel Efficiency
2024 Mazda CX-30 fuel economy ratings:
- 2.5L 4-cylinder engine (FWD): 26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway / 29 mpg combined
- 2.5L 4-cylinder engine (AWD): 24 mpg city / 31 mpg highway / 26 mpg combined
- 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine (AWD): 22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 25 mpg combined
Efficiency Across Model Years
2020-2021:
- 2.5L 4-cylinder (FWD): 25 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
- 2.5L 4-cylinder (AWD): 24 mpg city / 31 mpg highway
2022-2024:
- 2.5L 4-cylinder (FWD): 26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
- 2.5L 4-cylinder (AWD): 24 mpg city / 31 mpg highway
- 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder (AWD): 22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
The CX-30 has maintained consistent fuel efficiency since its introduction, with a slight improvement in city mpg for FWD models in recent years.
4. Mazda CX-9
The Mazda CX-9 is the brand’s largest SUV offering, providing three-row seating and a premium feel. Despite its size, the CX-9 manages to deliver respectable fuel efficiency for its class.
Fuel Tank Capacity
The 2024 Mazda CX-9 has a fuel tank capacity of 19.0 gallons (72 liters).
Fuel Efficiency
2024 Mazda CX-9 fuel economy ratings:
- 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine (AWD): 20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway / 23 mpg combined
Efficiency Across Generations
First generation (2007-2015):
- 3.7L V6 engine: Up to 17 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
Second generation (2016-present):
- 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine: Up to 20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
The switch from a V6 to a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine in the second generation CX-9 resulted in a significant improvement in fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance.
5. Mazda6
The Mazda6 midsize sedan has long been praised for its sporty handling and upscale interior. While it was discontinued in the North American market after the 2021 model year, it remains an important part of Mazda’s lineup in other global markets.
Fuel Tank Capacity
The 2021 Mazda6 (last model year for North America) had a fuel tank capacity of 16.4 gallons (62 liters).
Fuel Efficiency
2021 Mazda6 fuel economy ratings:
- 2.5L 4-cylinder engine: 26 mpg city / 35 mpg highway / 29 mpg combined
- 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine: 23 mpg city / 31 mpg highway / 26 mpg combined
Efficiency Across Generations
Third generation (2014-2021):
- 2.5L 4-cylinder: Up to 26 mpg city / 38 mpg highway (2014-2017)
- 2.5L 4-cylinder: Up to 26 mpg city / 35 mpg highway (2018-2021)
- 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder: Up to 23 mpg city / 31 mpg highway (2018-2021)
The Mazda6 maintained competitive fuel efficiency throughout its third generation, with the introduction of the turbocharged engine option providing a performance boost at a slight cost to mpg.
6. Mazda CX-3
The Mazda CX-3 subcompact crossover SUV was introduced in 2016 and discontinued in the North American market after the 2021 model year. It continues to be sold in other global markets and remains popular for its nimble handling and efficient powertrain.
Fuel Tank Capacity
The 2021 Mazda CX-3 (last model year for North America) had a fuel tank capacity of 12.7 gallons (48 liters).
Fuel Efficiency
2021 Mazda CX-3 fuel economy ratings:
- 2.0L 4-cylinder engine (FWD): 29 mpg city / 34 mpg highway / 31 mpg combined
- 2.0L 4-cylinder engine (AWD): 27 mpg city / 32 mpg highway / 29 mpg combined
Efficiency Across Model Years
2016-2018:
- 2.0L 4-cylinder (FWD): 29 mpg city / 34 mpg highway
- 2.0L 4-cylinder (AWD): 27 mpg city / 32 mpg highway
2019-2021:
- 2.0L 4-cylinder (FWD): 29 mpg city / 34 mpg highway
- 2.0L 4-cylinder (AWD): 27 mpg city / 32 mpg highway
The CX-3 maintained consistent fuel efficiency throughout its production run, offering competitive mpg ratings for its class.
7. Mazda MX-5 Miata
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is an iconic sports car known for its lightweight design and engaging driving experience. While not a volume seller like some of Mazda’s other models, it remains an important part of the brand’s lineup and offers surprisingly good fuel efficiency for a sports car.
Fuel Tank Capacity
The 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata has a fuel tank capacity of 11.9 gallons (45 liters).
Fuel Efficiency
2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata fuel economy ratings:
- 2.0L 4-cylinder engine (manual transmission): 26 mpg city / 34 mpg highway / 29 mpg combined
- 2.0L 4-cylinder engine (automatic transmission): 26 mpg city / 35 mpg highway / 30 mpg combined
Efficiency Across Generations
Third generation (NC, 2006-2015):
- 2.0L 4-cylinder: Up to 22 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
Fourth generation (ND, 2016-present):
- 2.0L 4-cylinder (2016-2018): Up to 26 mpg city / 35 mpg highway
- 2.0L 4-cylinder (2019-present): Up to 26 mpg city / 35 mpg highway
The current generation MX-5 Miata saw a significant improvement in fuel efficiency compared to its predecessor, thanks to its lighter weight and more efficient engine.
8. Mazda CX-50
Introduced for the 2023 model year, the Mazda CX-50 is a compact crossover SUV that emphasizes ruggedness and off-road capability while maintaining Mazda’s signature driving dynamics and efficiency.
Fuel Tank Capacity
The 2024 Mazda CX-50 has a fuel tank capacity of 15.8 gallons (60 liters).
Fuel Efficiency
2024 Mazda CX-50 fuel economy ratings:
- 2.5L 4-cylinder engine: 24 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 27 mpg combined
2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine: 23 mpg city / 29 mpg highway / 26 mpg combined. The turbocharged engine option sees a slight decrease in efficiency, rated at 23 mpg city / 29 mpg highway / 25 mpg combined.
Efficiency Across Model Years
As a relatively new model, the CX-50 has maintained consistent fuel economy ratings since its introduction for the 2023 model year:
- 2023-2024 (2.5L non-turbo): 24 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 27 mpg combined
- 2023-2024 (2.5L turbo): 23 mpg city / 29 mpg highway / 25 mpg combined
In real-world testing, Car and Driver achieved 29 mpg on their 75-mph highway fuel economy test route with the turbocharged CX-50. This aligns closely with the EPA highway rating for this engine option.
9. Mazda CX-90
The Mazda CX-90 is a new three-row midsize SUV introduced for the 2024 model year, replacing the CX-9 in Mazda’s lineup. It offers more space and power than its predecessor, along with new powertrain options including a plug-in hybrid variant.
Fuel Tank Capacity
The 2024 Mazda CX-90 has a fuel tank capacity of 19.5 gallons (74 liters) for non-PHEV models.
Fuel Efficiency
2024 Mazda CX-90 fuel economy ratings:
- 3.3L turbocharged inline-6 engine: 24 mpg city / 28 mpg highway / 25 mpg combined
- 2.5L plug-in hybrid: 56 MPGe combined, 25 mpg combined (gas only)
Electric Range and Efficiency (PHEV model)
- Full Charge Capacity: 17.8 kWh
- All-Electric Range: 26 miles
- Efficiency: 68 MPGe combined
As a new model, the CX-90 doesn’t have historical efficiency data to compare. However, it offers improved fuel economy compared to the outgoing CX-9, particularly with its new plug-in hybrid powertrain option.
10. Mazda2
While no longer sold in North America, the Mazda2 subcompact hatchback remains an important global model for Mazda, known for its nimble handling and excellent fuel efficiency.
Fuel Tank Capacity
The current generation Mazda2 has a fuel tank capacity of 11.9 gallons (45 liters).
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy ratings for the Mazda2 vary by market and powertrain. In markets where it’s still sold, the Mazda2 typically achieves:
- 1.5L Skyactiv-G petrol engine: Up to 50 mpg combined (based on European WLTP cycle)
- 1.5L Skyactiv-D diesel engine: Up to 60 mpg combined (based on European WLTP cycle)
Efficiency Across Generations
Second generation (2007-2014):
- 1.5L petrol: Up to 35 mpg combined (EPA ratings for US market)
Third generation (2014-present):
- 1.5L Skyactiv-G petrol: Up to 50 mpg combined (European WLTP)
- 1.5L Skyactiv-D diesel: Up to 60 mpg combined (European WLTP)
The current generation Mazda2 has seen significant improvements in fuel efficiency thanks to Mazda’s Skyactiv technology.
Conclusion
Mazda has made significant strides in improving fuel efficiency across its lineup over the past decade. The introduction of Skyactiv technology has played a crucial role in boosting mpg ratings while maintaining the brand’s reputation for engaging driving dynamics. Here are some key takeaways:
- Mazda’s compact and subcompact models like the Mazda3 and CX-30 offer the best fuel economy in the lineup, with highway ratings often exceeding 30 mpg.
- Even larger vehicles like the CX-5 and CX-50 manage respectable fuel efficiency, with most variants achieving combined ratings of 25 mpg or higher.
- The introduction of turbocharged engines has provided a performance boost with only a minor impact on fuel economy in most cases.
- Mazda is beginning to embrace electrification, as evidenced by the new CX-90 PHEV, which offers significant efficiency gains over traditional gas-powered models.
- While not all models have seen dramatic year-over-year improvements, Mazda has consistently refined its powertrains to maintain competitive fuel economy ratings.
As Mazda continues to evolve its lineup with new models and powertrain technologies, we can expect to see further improvements in fuel efficiency across the brand. The company’s commitment to both driving enjoyment and efficiency ensures that future Mazda vehicles will continue to offer a compelling blend of performance and economy.