Is Mazda as reliable as Toyota?

Answered by Stephen Mosley

Mazda has emerged as a top contender in the realm of reliability, surpassing traditional champions Toyota and Lexus in the latest Consumer Reports’ 2020 Auto Reliability Surveys. This survey is known for its extensive data collection, drawing from the experiences of over 300,000 vehicle owners who are members of the organization.

The fact that Mazda has claimed the title of the most reliable car brand in the USA is indeed a significant achievement. For years, Toyota and Lexus have held a reputation for exceptional reliability, with their vehicles often topping reliability rankings. So, the rise of Mazda to the top spot is quite noteworthy and suggests that the brand has made significant strides in improving the dependability of their vehicles.

Now, to address the question of whether Mazda is as reliable as Toyota, it’s important to consider a few key factors. First and foremost, reliability is not an absolute measure, and it can vary across different models and model years within a brand. While Mazda as a whole may be ranked as the most reliable brand, specific Mazda models might still have variations in their reliability compared to certain Toyota models.

That being said, it’s worth noting that Mazda has been consistently improving its reliability scores in recent years. This is evident in the Consumer Reports’ survey, where Mazda has shown a steady upward trajectory in reliability rankings. This suggests that Mazda is making significant strides in developing reliable vehicles that can compete with the likes of Toyota.

Another point to consider is that reliability rankings can also be influenced by the age of the vehicles being surveyed. Older models tend to have more data available, and their reliability can be more accurately assessed. As Mazda has been making improvements in recent years, its newer models may have contributed to its rise in reliability rankings. On the other hand, Toyota has a long-standing reputation for reliability, and its older models may have established a strong foundation for its overall brand reliability.

It’s important to remember that reliability is just one aspect of a car’s overall performance and ownership experience. Other factors such as driving dynamics, safety features, comfort, and technology should also be taken into account when evaluating the overall appeal of a vehicle. Different individuals may have varying priorities and preferences, so it’s essential to consider these factors alongside reliability.

While Mazda has made remarkable progress in terms of reliability and has even surpassed Toyota and Lexus in the latest Consumer Reports’ survey, it is crucial to consider the individual models and model years when comparing the reliability of Mazda and Toyota vehicles. Ultimately, personal experiences and preferences, as well as specific vehicle models, should guide one’s decision when evaluating the reliability of these brands.