Which is the Smallest Mazda Car Type for you? | 02 October 2023

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on Mazda small cars! Whether you're a Mazda lover, a potential buyer, or simply curious about what sets small Mazda cars apart in the automotive world, you're in the right place.

Dive deep as we explore the distinguishing features that encapsulate Mazda's dedication to driving pleasure and engineering excellence

However, firstly when it comes to choosing a small car, these are some of the things you should consider.

Table of Contents

• Carrying Capacity Needs
• Budget
• Fuel Efficiency
• Things to note
• 1. Mazda MX-5 Miata
• 2. Mazda2 (also known as Demio in some markets)
• 3. Mazda CX-3
• Mazda3
• 5. Mazda CX-30
• 6. Mazda6
• History of Small Mazda Cars
• The Smallest Mazda Cars Final Thoughts

Carrying Capacity Needs

Though small, these cars can come with a huge carrying capacity. For instance, the CX-3 offers more carrying space than some of the other smallest Mazdas due to its SUV design. The Mazda2 provides a decent amount of room for a subcompact car. At the same time, the Miata has limited trunk space due to its convertible nature.

So make sure you get the correct smallest model for your individual needs.

Budget

Smaller vehicles tend to be more affordable; however, the features and trim levels can significantly influence the price. Consequently, it's always a good idea to check what features you want with your car to ensure you get the right one for your budget.

Fuel Efficiency

Smaller vehicles like the Mazda2 and Miata tend to be more fuel-efficient than larger SUVs - especially in city driving conditions.

Things to note

It's worth noting that vehicle models and their specifications can change annually. As a result, it is always a good idea to check with the dealership about the Mazda you are most interested in and the current information on their lineup.

1. Mazda MX-5 Miata

The MX-5 Miata, often referred to as the Miata is a compact, two-seater roadster known for its fun-to-drive nature. Its small size and lightweight construction have made it a favourite among driving enthusiasts for years.

Mazda MX-5's Miata Key Features

This car's key features include:

• 2 Seating Capacity
• Convertible / Roadster Body Style
• Lightweight construction
• Manual or automatic gearbox options
• Rear-wheel drive
• Retractable soft-top or hardtop options

Mazda MX-5's Miata Key Dimensions and Metrics

This car's key metrics include the following:

2. Mazda2 (also known as Demio in some markets)

The Mazda2 is a subcompact car and is one of Mazda's smallest offerings in terms of overall footprint.

Mazda2's Key Features

This car's key features include:

• 5 Seating Capacity
• Available in both manual and automatic gearboxes
• Efficient four-cylinder engines
• Front-wheel drive
• Primarily a Hatchback body style

Mazda2's Key Dimensions and Metrics

This car's key metrics include the following:

3. Mazda CX-3

Though an SUV, the Mazda CX-3 is compact and fits within the subcompact crossover segment. It's slightly larger than the Mazda2 but offers more cargo space and a higher driving position.

The Miata is hard to beat if you're an enthusiast looking for a spirited drive. If you need something practical for city commuting, the Mazda2 or CX-3 may be more suitable options here for you.

Mazda CX-3's Key Features

This car's key features include:

• Available all-wheel drive
• Subcompact SUV Body Style
• Efficient SKYACTIV engine technology
• Modern infotainment system with touchscreen controls
• Seating Capacity for 5 people

Mazda CX-3's Key Dimensions and Metrics

This car's key metrics include the following:

4. Mazda3

The Mazda3 is a compact car available in both Saloon and Hatchback body styles. It's a step above the Mazda2 in terms of size and amenities.

Mazda3's Key Features

This car's key features include:

• Available all-wheel drive (in some versions)
• Advanced SKYACTIV engine technology
• Modern infotainment system with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto® compatibility
• Premium interior materials in higher trims
• Saloon or Hatchback Body Styles
• Seating Capacity for up to 5 people

Mazda3's Key Dimensions and Metrics

This car's key metrics include the following:

5. Mazda CX-30

Slotting between the Mazda CX-3 and the larger Mazda CX-5, the Mazda CX-30 is a compact crossover that offers a blend of the two in terms of size and capabilities.

Mazda CX-30's Key Features

This car's key features include:

• Available all-wheel drive
• Compact SUV Body Style
• SKYACTIV engine options
• Seating Capacity for 5 people
• Standard advanced safety features
• Upscale interior design and materials

Mazda CX-30's Key Dimensions and Metrics

This car's key metrics include the following:

6. Mazda6

The Mazda6 is a midsize Saloon that offers more space and luxury compared to the Mazda3. It's larger than most small cars on this list but still maintains the brand's signature driving dynamics.

Mazda6 Key Features

This car's key features include:

• Advanced driver-assist features
• Premium interior with available Nappa leather and wood trim
• Saloon Body Style
• Seating Capacity for 5 people
• Signature LED lighting
• SKYACTIV engine options, including a turbocharged variant

Mazda6 Key Dimensions and Metrics

This car's key metrics include the following:

History of Small Mazda Cars

Mazda has a long history of building good reliable small Mazda cars. This goes back to:

1960's - The Birth of Small Mazdas

Mazda R360 was built in 1960 and was Mazda's first foray into the passenger car market. This was a Kei car (a Japanese for small vehicle) and had a distinctive coupe-style body.

With a mere 356CC engine, it was designed primarily for the Japanese domestic market.

Mazda Carol - 1962

Following the R360, Mazda introduced the Carol, another Kei car, but slightly larger and more practical.

Over the years, the Carol underwent several changes and saw multiple iterations to its design and features.

1970's to 1980's - Growth & Global Expansion

Mazda 323 in 1977, was known as the Familia in Japan and 323 in many export markets - this compact car became a significant global success for Mazda.

It was available in various body styles over the years, including Saloons, Hatchbacks, and even Estate variations.

Mazda MX-5 Miata - 1989

Launched at the end of the 1980s, the Miata was a tribute to the classic roadsters of the past, offering a pure and joyful driving experience. It quickly became the best-selling two-seat convertible sports car in Mazda's history.

1990's - 2000's - Innovation & Diversity

Mazda Demio / Mazda2 was first built in 1996. The Demio, later rebranded to the Mazda2 for many markets, was introduced as a mini MPV and later evolved into the subcompact car we know of it today.

It was well-received for its efficiency, practicality, and zippy handling.

Mazda MX-3 was built between 1991 - 1998. This small sports car coupe was known for its unique V6 engine - one of the smallest production V6 engines ever made.

While not as popular as the Miata, it still garnered a loyal following.

2010's - Present - Modernisation & Refinement

Mazda CX-3 was built from 2015. Mazda introduced the CX-3, a subcompact crossover SUV, as the SUV market grew. This car is famous for combining Mazda's traditional driving dynamics with an SUV's practicality and higher driving position.

Mazda CX-30 was then built from 2019. This model was then slotted in between the CX-3 and CX-5. Whereas the CX-30 offered a more premium experience in the compact SUV segment with its upscale interior and advanced tech features.

History overall

Throughout its history, Mazda has maintained a commitment to the "Jinba Ittai" design philosophy - which translates to "Horse and rider as one.".

This approach emphasises the connection between the car and its driver, which is evident in even the smallest cars they produce - even today.

Whether it's a tiny Kei car for city streets in Japan or a global compact car, Mazda's commitment to driving pleasure has always remained unwavering.

The Smallest Mazda Cars Final Thoughts

So are you ready to experience the Mazda small car difference firsthand?
Visit our Swansea Mazda dealership today and take your favourite model for a spin.

With unparalleled quality and state-of-the-art features, let Mazda redefine your driving journey. Our expert team is here to help.