We all know the most revered models like the RX-7 and Miata. As well as the best selling models, like the CX-5. But there are so many Mazda models that simply do not get the love and attention. Some of these models are great! Do you have a favorite that is less noticed?
Personally I love the CX-3. It’s a compact, lightweight, AWD, unique vehicle that I find hilarious to drive.
There’s also the Mazda5, which has fully independent suspension front and rear, light for a van, and has fantastic utility. I think it’s a shame that these models are gone, but few people bought them, so they we discontinued.
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Protege5
CX-3 ain’t completely dead yet, it’s still available in Japan and Australia/NZ
Personally i don’t see the point, the 2 and 3 hatches are better vehicles all around
I loved my 2004 Mazda 6 Wagon.
Mine had the 3.0L double overhead cam V6 with plenty of power. (Originally developed by Porsche, before Ford bought the tech and used it in Jaguars and Mazdas.) Great suspension setup all around and a comfortable ride. With the rear seats folded I was able to transport a Ton of stuff for my new house, including a large garbage can, a pressure washer, multiple lawn tools, etc… Overall it was a pretty sweet car. The downsides were the faulty PCV valve that failed causing the engine to consume most of its oil and spin a cam bearing, and the fact that getting to the rear spark plugs required removing the intake manifold, which wasn’t really all that difficult.
Mine had also been owned by a smoker, so it got a LOT of cleaning and a new headliner to get the smell out.
I love my cx3 and I’ve seen a surprising number of them on the road.
Easily the Mazda Lantis type R I’ve had 2 now, one was my first car so that’s probably why I like them so much
Used to love the look of the mx6 mysteir
The 1st gen (80’s ?) MPV was a beast. Basically a small SUV before it’s time. Especially with the AWD. A 1st gen 5 with an AWD system would have been nice too.
Mazdaspeed 3
I mean, I don’t know if it’s underappreciated by fans. I’d say underappreciated by manufacturer.
Right answer. Lost in the world of GTI’s and WRX’s. Loved my 2013 and learned all about modifying turbo 4’s.
I’ll see your Speed3 and raise you a MazdaSPEED6.
What? That car had a huge number of fanboys in its heyday, was in Forza, Need for Speed, had the forums (Mazdaspeedforums and NATOR), and an entire cult around it. Probably one of the most beloved Mazdas of the last 20 years.
just me but I dont like the feel of Mazda 2. short snouts just don’t have that appeal to me
I had a light blue Mazda Demio in Japan. I loved it. Fit in super super well with the rest of the boxy cars, making it actually one if the sleeker cars on the road hahaha.
The 626. I loved mine so much I bought a 2nd one. Great cars except for the Ford cd4e tranny.
rx-3
Mazda5 cheap and practical
Half the price of my Camry off the lot… and I can’t wait to get rid of that Camry.
I love the Rx-8 as a kid, way before I watched initial D and discovered the rx-7s. Now I can finally afford them but they’re just a little too old and impractical.
The rx8 is a rough and tough raw sportscar experience. I love it i used to daily mine but now i have a mazda3 so its just a weekend car
Same boat but with an 04 Mazda 6. Sadly it is also horribly fuel hungry with that V6, even though I drive er’ light.
I don’t think I’ve ever seen the 1993 Mazda 929 and that body style mentioned. I don’t think it’s due to being unloved, it’s just relatively unknown. That was my first car and man I loved it!
Now that’s a forgotten ride
Haha I came here to say this. I’d take a first gen 929 personally though. I love those pop up headlights.