Yes, Mazdas hold their value exceptionally well, often outperforming brands like Toyota and Honda in five-year depreciation rates.
Models like the Mazda3 and CX-5 are retaining 60-70% of their original value according to Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds data.
Do Mazdas depreciate less than Honda and Toyota?
Mazdas depreciate slower than many competitors, losing only about 30-40% of value over five years versus the industry average of 45-50%.
This strong retention stems from high build quality, engaging driving dynamics, and reliable powertrains that appeal to used car buyers.
In my shop, I’ve seen 2018 Mazda CX-5s still fetching $20,000+ with 80,000 miles, rivaling fresh Hondas.
Real-world resale data from sources like CarGurus and AutoTrader shows Mazda3 sedans holding 65% value after 60 months, beating Subaru by 5-10 points.
Factors like low ownership costs and premium interiors without luxury pricing boost demand.
Dealerships often undervalue them initially, but private sales or auctions reveal true strength.
Five-Year Depreciation Comparison Table
| Model | Brand | Original MSRP | 5-Year Value Retained | Depreciation % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mazda3 | Mazda | $25,000 | $16,250 | 35% |
| Civic | Honda | $24,000 | $15,360 | 36% |
| Corolla | Toyota | $23,000 | $14,690 | 36% |
| CX-5 | Mazda | $30,000 | $19,500 | 35% |
| CR-V | Honda | $29,000 | $18,150 | 37.5% |
This table uses average 2023 data for base trims. Mazda edges out in crossovers due to sportier handling and upscale features.
Track your own vehicle’s value using tools like KBB for personalized insights.
How does the Mazda CX-5 hold its value over time?
The Mazda CX-5 retains 65-70% of its value after five years, making it one of the top compact SUVs for resale.
Buyers love its premium cabin, responsive turbo engine, and AWD system that doesn’t guzzle fuel.
Forums like MazdaCX5.org are full of owners trading up after 100,000 miles with minimal value loss.
Three-year-old CX-5s often sell for 85% of MSRP in private markets.
Low repair frequency—thanks to Skyactiv tech—keeps insurance and maintenance low, boosting appeal.
Independent shops see fewer catastrophic failures compared to Nissan Rogues, which helps resale.
CX-5 Resale by Model Year
- ➤ 2017-2021: Retain 60-68%; strong demand for turbo models.
- ➤ 2022-Present: Hold 75%+ at three years; hybrid rumors drive premiums.
- ➤ High-Mileage (100k+): Still 45-55% value if serviced regularly.
To maximize your CX-5’s value, document all services and avoid aftermarket wheels that scare buyers.
I’ve flipped low-mileage ones at auction for thousands over book value.
Does the Mazda3 hold value well compared to Civic?
Yes, the Mazda3 holds 62-67% value after five years, nearly matching the Honda Civic’s 65% while offering more fun-to-drive character.
Its hatchback variant outperforms sedans by 5 points due to versatility.
Used listings on Facebook Marketplace show 2020 Mazda3s at $18,000-$20,000 versus Civics at similar miles.
Mazda3’s upscale materials and available AWD give it an edge in snowy regions.
Reliability ratings from Consumer Reports place it neck-and-neck with Honda, but lower initial pricing means better absolute dollars retained.
Dealership trade-ins undervalue the handling premium, so sell private.
Mazda3 vs Civic: Key Value Factors
- Reliability: Both score 4/5; Mazda’s G-Vectoring edges cornering confidence.
- Fuel Economy: Mazda3 at 30 MPG combined beats Civic Si.
- Features: Leather and Bose standard on higher Mazda trims add $1,000+ resale.
Clean Carfax reports can add 10% value. In real-world diagnostics, Mazda3 valvetrains last longer than early Civics.
Mazda MX-5 Miata value retention long term
The Mazda MX-5 Miata holds 70-80% value after five years, far exceeding most sports cars due to enthusiast demand and bulletproof engineering.
Soft-top models depreciate slowest, with 2019 examples at $22,000+ today.
Miata.net forums buzz with 20-year-old cars trading at 60% original value.
Roadster purity and low mileage keep values high; ND generation (2016+) is hottest.
Parts commonality reduces ownership costs, unlike pricier Porsches.
Auctions see RF retractables hold 5-10% less but still strong.
Miata Resale Tips
- ✔ Keep under 10,000 miles/year for premium pricing.
- ✔ Original wheels and no mods preserve value.
- ✔ Club racing history can boost or tank value—disclose fully.
Why do Mazdas have good resale value?
Mazdas excel in resale due to Skyactiv efficiency, premium perceived quality, and driving enjoyment that creates loyal fans.
Low rust issues in modern models and strong warranties build trust.
J.D. Power dependability scores rival Toyota, driving used demand.
Unlike Hyundais, Mazdas avoid heavy discounting that tanks resale.
Turbo options and AWD without complexity appeal broadly.
Shop experience shows well-maintained ones outlast expectations, fetching top dollar.
Top 5 Mazda Value Boosters
- Build Quality: Tight panels, real leather outshine Kia.
- Performance: 250+ HP turbos without thirst.
- Reliability: 200,000-mile engines common.
- Low Ownership Costs: $500/year maintenance average.
- Brand Momentum: CX-90 luxury push lifts all boats.
Factors that hurt Mazda resale value
Poor maintenance, accident history, and high miles drop Mazda value by 20-30%, but less than average.
Rust in salt-belt states hits older 6s hardest. Mod-heavy cars scare buyers; stock examples sell fastest.
Flood titles or airbag deployments kill value instantly.
Turbo models need oil change proof. Dealers lowball AWD variants, but markets correct it.
Avoid These Value Killers
- ✘ Skipped timing belt on early Skyactiv-G (pre-2019).
- ✘ Aftermarket exhausts altering sound/ emissions.
- ✘ Undocumented repairs hiding issues.
Mazda CX-90 vs CX-5 resale comparison
Newer CX-90 holds 80% at two years, slightly better than CX-5’s 82% due to PHEV options, but long-term data is emerging.
CX-5’s proven track record gives it edge now. Inline-6 power draws luxury buyers.
CX-90 three-row space competes with Highlander, potentially stronger retention.
Early adopters report solid trade-ins. Watch for transmission teething issues in first years.
How to maximize your Mazda’s resale value
Follow factory service schedules religiously and keep records for 20% value uplift.
Clean interior/exterior and stock appearance add thousands.
Sell private via Craigslist or FB Marketplace for 10-15% over trade-in.
Step-by-Step Value Maximization
- Service History: Dealer stamps or digital logs from MyMazda app.
- Detail Pro: $200 steam clean inside/out; fix chips.
- Photos: 50+ high-res with odometer/engine bay.
- Price Right: KBB private party minus 5% negotiation room.
- Timing: Spring sales peak for SUVs.
Tire condition matters—replace if under 4/32″. Full tank at handover seals deals.
Mazda6 resale value trends 2023-2024
Mazda6 retains 55-62% after five years, solid for midsize sedans amid SUV shift.
Turbo variants hold best at 65%. Discontinuation boosts collector interest.
Low production keeps supply tight. AWD models premium in winter states. Trade before 100k miles.
Do Mazda CX-30 and CX-50 hold value?
CX-30 retains 70% at three years, CX-50 slightly less at 68% due to off-road focus.
Both outperform Subaru Crosstrek. Premium pricing reflects value.
CX-30’s subcompact efficiency wins urban buyers. CX-50 turbo scarcity drives prices up 5%.
FAQ
Is Mazda better than Toyota for resale?
Mazda matches or beats Toyota in percentage retained but trails in absolute dollars due to lower MSRP. CX-5 vs RAV4 is nearly identical at five years.
What Mazda model holds value best?
MX-5 Miata tops at 75%+, followed by CX-5 at 68%. Avoid discontinued sedans long-term.
How many miles is too many for used Mazda?
Under 100,000 is ideal; 150,000+ viable with records. Skyactiv engines shrug off high miles.
Does AWD boost Mazda resale?
Yes, 10-15% premium in snowy areas; negligible in Sunbelt.
Are Mazdas expensive to maintain affecting value?
No, averages $450/year, lower than German rivals, supporting strong resale.
In conclusion, Mazdas deliver outstanding value retention through quality engineering and buyer enthusiasm. Choose based on needs, maintain diligently, and enjoy equity that rivals the best. Smart ownership turns depreciation into an asset.
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