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.

    • Wolfie1531@alien.topBEnglish
      1·
      10 months ago

      I’m with you!

      I’m actually hoping to find one in a couple years when I can afford it. Gonna be very hard to find one that isn’t rusted to shit around the parts though unfortunately.

  • OO_Ben@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    10 months ago

    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!

  • PoundKitchen@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    10 months ago

    > 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.

    Oddly, my dealer couldn’t get Mazda 5 in quick enough, demand what that high here in northern VA. Though they did have three white sport M/T models for a long time.

    • chun7256@alien.topBEnglish
      1·
      10 months ago

      Was going to say this. My dad has one of the last 5’s sold in Canada and it’s honestly an amazing package.

  • No_Wear295@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    10 months ago

    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.

      • Dylanc431@alien.topBEnglish
        1·
        10 months ago

        I had the chance to buy an mx3 for 1k a few years ago, I had to turn it down because of financial troubles at the time. I love those little goofy things

  • Breconlikescars@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    10 months ago

    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

    • BuddyBear17@alien.topBEnglish
      1·
      10 months ago

      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.

    • tubaguy99@alien.topBEnglish
      1·
      10 months ago

      I mean, I don’t know if it’s underappreciated by fans. I’d say underappreciated by manufacturer.

  • yumiguelulu@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    10 months ago

    just me but I dont like the feel of Mazda 2. short snouts just don’t have that appeal to me

    • PercMastaFTW@alien.topBEnglish
      1·
      10 months ago

      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.

  • captainkirkw@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    10 months ago

    I agree with both of those. We got our sister in law a used Mazda5 awhile back because they were so affordable compared to something like an Odyssey. I know they are very different but it has worked out just fine for their family of four.

    The CX3 is fun to drive and I have been tempted over the past few years but I think I’m just going with a new Mazda3 turbo hatch

    The MX-3 was really neat and fun to drive, especially with the 1.8 V6 and manual transmission.

    Even a basic Protege was more fun to zip around in than a Corolla or Civic back in the day.