Mazda Shines with Four Models on Car and Driver’s 2026 Editors’ List
Key Takeaways
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Four Mazda models—the Mazda3, CX-30, CX-50, and MX-5 Miata—earned spots on the 2026 Car and Driver Editors’ Choice list.
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The awards highlight vehicles that offer a superior combination of driving engagement, design, and value.
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Each winner represents the "best-in-class" for its respective segment based on rigorous instrumented testing.
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Wellesley Mazda, a Shaker Auto Group dealership, carries the full lineup of these award-winning vehicles for New England drivers.
Recognition from leading automotive authorities confirms what our team sees every day: Mazda is dedicated to creating an elevated driving experience. On February 3, 2026, Mazda North American Operations announced that four models were named to the Car and Driver Editors’ Choice list. This prestigious list serves as a definitive guide for consumers looking for vehicles that excel in their categories. At Wellesley Mazda, part of the Shaker Auto Group, we are proud to offer these top-tier vehicles to our community in Wellesley, MA, and throughout New England. These models aren't just winners on paper; they are engineered to make every local commute or coastal drive more enjoyable.
Which Mazda models earned the 2026 Editors’ Choice award?
The four Mazda models recognized by Car and Driver for 2026 are the Mazda3, the CX-30, the CX-50, and the MX-5 Miata. Each of these vehicles was selected for its ability to deliver a premium experience that often surpasses more expensive competitors in their segments.
For drivers in Wellesley, this lineup offers something for every lifestyle. The Mazda3 provides a sophisticated option for those who want a "posh" interior and agile handling for city commuting. The CX-30 and CX-50 offer the ruggedness and standard i-ACTIV AWD needed for New England winters. Finally, the MX-5 Miata continues its legacy as the benchmark for affordable, open-air performance, perfect for summer days on the backroads of Norfolk County.
How does Car and Driver select its Editors’ Choice winners?
Car and Driver selects its Editors’ Choice winners through a rigorous process that includes instrumented testing and subjective evaluations against every other vehicle in a segment. The editors look for vehicles that fulfill their intended mission better than any other while providing a unique and engaging personality.
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Instrumented Testing: Every vehicle undergoes objective performance measurements, including acceleration, braking, and road-holding.
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Driving Engagement: Editors prioritize "the joy of driving," ensuring that winners offer a connected and responsive feel.
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Interior Quality: Vehicles are judged on the craftsmanship of the cabin and the intuitiveness of the technology.
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Overall Value: The list highlights vehicles that offer a premium feel and high-end features at a price point that makes sense for the buyer.
Why did the Mazda3 and CX-30 stand out in their categories?
The Mazda3 and CX-30 stood out because they offer a level of refinement and "posh" interior quality that is typically reserved for luxury brands. Car and Driver editors praised these models for their engaging driving dynamics and the availability of sophisticated all-wheel-drive systems.
In Wellesley, the Mazda3 is often chosen by those who want a compact car that feels like a premium sedan. Its sleek design and high-quality materials make it a standout in any parking lot. The CX-30 provides that same level of luxury in a subcompact SUV footprint, offering the elevated seating position and cargo versatility that New England drivers demand. As part of the Shaker Auto Group, Wellesley Mazda ensures our clients can experience this level of craftsmanship across our entire inventory.
What makes the Mazda CX-50 a top choice for New England SUV buyers?
The Mazda CX-50 is a top choice because it combines "playful handling" with a rugged, "luxury-adjacent" interior that is built for adventure. It was recognized for its zesty performance, particularly when equipped with the available turbocharged engine, which provides the power needed for merging onto high-speed New England highways.
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Refined Performance: The CX-50 offers a smooth yet powerful ride that remains composed even on winding Massachusetts roads.
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Outdoor Capability: Designed with a wider stance, it is built to handle weekend trips to the mountains or the coast.
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Premium Tech: Features like a 12-speaker Bose audio system and intuitive infotainment keep you connected on long drives.
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AWD Confidence: Standard all-wheel drive across all models ensures you are prepared for whatever New England weather throws your way.
Where can I test drive these 2026 Editors’ Choice winners?
You can test drive the Mazda3, CX-30, CX-50, and MX-5 Miata at Wellesley Mazda, located in Wellesley, MA. Our team is eager to demonstrate the specific attributes that earned these vehicles their spots on the Car and Driver 2026 Editors’ Choice list.
As a Shaker Auto Group dealership, we pride ourselves on providing a transparent and informative shopping experience. We can explain the engineering behind the "Jinba Ittai" philosophy and show you how it translates to the award-winning performance noted by the editors. We invite you to visit us and see firsthand why these four models are considered the best in the business for 2026. Check out our inventory here, and drop by for a test drive or two.
*Penned by AI, polished by humans
