Mazda has announced that it will discontinue the Mazda6 midsize sedan and CX-3 subcompact crossover after the 2021 model year. If you want either of these stylish and fun-to-drive but frequently overlooked vehicles, you’d better act fast.
The Mazda CX-3’s departure is not surprising. Based on the global Mazda2 platform, this subcompact model never offered habitable rear-seat room or much in the way of cargo space. Furthermore, when Mazda introduced the more palatable CX-30 crossover, it simultaneously pared down the CX-3 lineup to a single Sport trim level to avoid overlap between the two. Aside from its lower base price, the CX-3 had little to offer aside from its nimble urban driving dynamics and ability to fit into the smallest parking spaces.
As impressive as the Mazda6 sedan continues to be within the midsize car segment, its departure also isn’t surprising. Mazda hasn’t completely redesigned the Mazda6 since the 2014 model year (it got a significant refresh for 2018), and eight years is a long time for any vehicle to go without a complete overhaul. The car has aged remarkably well, though, and remains easy to recommend. However, people aren’t lining up to buy midsize sedans like they once did.
These departures leave Mazda with three crossover SUVs, the compact but roomy Mazda3 hatchback and sedan, and, of course, the MX-5 Miata sports car. Mazda is also dipping its tire treads into the electrification pool (sounds dangerous) with the new MX-30, a vehicle that’s hard to pin down. Styled like an SUV coupe and equipped with freestyle doors like the old Honda Element, the MX-30 will offer a choice between plug-in hybrid and fully electric drive systems.
Rumors claim Mazda is finalizing a new rear-drive vehicle platform and architecture that will spawn next-generation replacements for the Mazda CX-5 and CX-9 and, perhaps, the departing Mazda6. Reportedly, they’ll offer new inline 6-cylinder engines with likely electrification options, and Mazda will price them higher than the vehicles they replace as it continues its transformation into a premium brand.
Mazda and trusted publications are the sources of information for this article. It was accurate on May 21, 2021, but it may have changed since that date.
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