Mazda’s Best Family SUVs – Top 4 Car Models Listed

You spot SUVs wherever you look these days, don’t you? They’re hard to miss with their imposing size, elegant curves, and the raw confidence they radiate on highways and streets. I recall a time when they weren’t all over the place. Yet somehow, over time, they’ve become a dominant force on the road. What changed? Versatility. Big space. Reliable performance. They’re perfect for families. And one brand that’s been getting a lot of buzz in this market is Mazda.

Mazda’s got an entire lineup of SUVs that are making waves. Each one’s got its own thing going on—different perks for different folks. It’s almost like they know families want options. In this guide, I’m gonna walk you through some of the best Mazda SUVs for families. If you’re in the market for one, maybe this will help you figure out which one fits your lifestyle best. Let’s dive in.

HighStuff’s Top Mazda SUVs for Families

1. The Mazda CX-5

Oh, the CX-5. This one’s a classic. Compact, stylish, and built to perform. Since its launch back in 2012, it’s been a favorite. You know, it’s one of those cars where you immediately notice the design. The lines are clean, modern—even a bit sporty. That grille is bold and those headlights are sharp, like it’s looking right at you.

Design

Inside, it feels upscale. They didn’t cheap out on the materials. It’s got room—not minivan-level space—but good enough for a small family. And the cargo area fits groceries, strollers, or whatever kids need. Driving it is the fun part and it handles like a dream. Tight corners are smooth and long highways are steady. City streets feel nimble. And the gas mileage is decent—25 mpg in the city, 31 on the highway.

Performance

It’s got two engine options. There’s the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder. Reliable, efficient, does what you need it to. Then there’s the turbocharged version. That one’s got more kick—if you’re into faster acceleration and more horsepower, this’ll make you smile. Either way, it’s built for smooth rides.

Safety

Mazda’s serious about safety. The CX-5’s proof of that. The safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) are top-notch. It’s packed with features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warnings, and emergency braking. There’s even adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system. All of this gives you peace of mind while driving your loved ones around.

More Info

If you’re curious about this one, there’s a website you should check out: https://www.cardinalemazda.com/2024-mazda-cx-5. They’ve got new and used options, and it’s worth a browse.

2. The Mazda CX-9

Now, the CX-9? That’s the big one. Do you want space? This one’s got it. You need power? It’s got that too. Families who’ve got kids, gear, and maybe a dog or two—this SUV’s built for you. It’s been around since 2006, and it’s gotten better every year.

Design

It’s sleek, almost luxurious. The outside’s got this polished, high-end vibe. You step inside, and you notice the comfort right away. Three rows of seats—plenty of space for up to seven people. Even the cargo area’s generous. There’s also a power liftgate, which makes life easier when you’re juggling groceries, strollers, or diaper bags.

Performance

Under the hood, it’s got a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine. Solid power without guzzling gas. It’s smooth on the road, with handling that’s surprisingly sharp for a bigger SUV. Mileage? 22 mpg in the city, 28 on the highway. Not bad for its size, right?

Safety

Just like the CX-5, the CX-9’s loaded with safety tech. Blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, emergency braking—you name it, it’s probably got it. The safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS are stellar, which tells you Mazda’s doing something right here. Optional extras include a head-up display that projects key info on the windshield and adaptive cruise control for those long drives.

3. The Mazda CX-30

Alright, let’s talk about the CX-30. It’s newer to the Mazda lineup, only launched in 2019, but it’s already a hit. Why? It’s that sweet spot between compact and spacious—stylish and practical.

Design

The word Refined comes to your mind when you see it first. The sleek silhouette, that bold grille up front, and the way the LED lights cut through the dark has got an aura of sophistication. Step inside, and it’s all about indulgence. Premium materials wrap around you, the layout feels intuitive yet modern, and there’s just the right amount of space to ensure every passenger feels at ease.

Performance

There are two engine options here. The standard 2.5-liter engine—efficient, reliable, no complaints. And then the turbocharged version for those who want an extra boost. Driving it feels fun. It’s nimble in cities and steady on highways. Great suspension, too, which makes bumpy roads less annoying.

Safety

Mazda’s safety game doesn’t slack with the CX-30. It’s got features like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic braking. It’s also earned high safety ratings. If you’re looking for a compact family car, this one’s worth a test drive.

4. The Mazda CX-3

Small but mighty. That’s the CX-3. It’s the tiniest in the lineup, but it’s perfect if you’re an urban explorer. Families living in cities or folks who don’t need tons of space will love it.

Design

Mazda’s signature KODO design shines here. It’s compact, but it doesn’t look cheap. The exterior’s sporty, with flowing lines and a bold stance. Inside, it’s got just enough space for a smaller family. Smart storage, comfy seats, and a refined feel make it enjoyable to drive.

Performance

It’s powered by a 2.0-liter engine that’s zippy and efficient. City driving is a breeze. Weekend trips? It holds its own. It’s not going to win drag races, but it’s not meant to. Fuel economy’s a strong suit here. More about it here: https://www.caranddriver.com/mazda/cx-3/specs

Safety

Don’t let its small size fool you. Safety isn’t compromised. It’s packed with features like emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and more. It’s also got high safety scores, so you know Mazda’s keeping you protected.

Exploring the Best Family SUVs from Mazda

So there you have it—Mazda’s lineup of family-friendly SUVs. From the compact CX-5 to the spacious CX-9, there’s something for everyone. The CX-30 and CX-3 are perfect for those who want style and efficiency. It really comes down to what your family needs.

If you’re serious about buying, hit up your local Mazda dealership. Take these for a spin. You’ll get what I mean when you’re behind the wheel. Trust me, Mazda’s doing something special with their SUVs.

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