If you’re shopping for a car in 2025, chances are you’re not just looking at the price today. You’re thinking about long-term value, especially when it comes time to sell or trade-in your vehicle.
So here’s the question: Do Mazdas hold their value?
The answer may surprise you. While brands like Toyota and Honda dominate the “reliable and resale-worthy” conversation, Mazda has been climbing the charts quietly but significantly over the last decade. With stunning design, premium interiors, top-tier safety, and growing consumer demand, Mazda vehicles now hold their value better than many of their rivals.
Let’s break down the real data, model by model, and show why buying a Mazda at Marin Mazda could be one of the smartest investments you make this year.
The Data: Mazda’s Rising Resale Value Rankings
According to iSeeCars, Mazda ranks in the top 5 mainstream brands for resale value in 2025, with an average 5-year depreciation rate of 38.3%, compared to the industry average of 47%.
| Brand | Average 5-Year Depreciation |
|---|---|
| Toyota | 36.9% |
| Honda | 37.4% |
| Mazda | 38.3% |
| Subaru | 39.2% |
| Hyundai | 44.1% |
| Ford | 47.3% |
This means if you buy a new Mazda today, you could retain thousands more in value when you go to trade in or sell a few years later.
Top Mazda Models That Hold Their Value
Let’s take a closer look at specific models and how they perform in resale value over time.
1. Mazda CX-5
- MSRP: $29,300 – $40,600 USD
- 5-Year Retained Value: 63%
- One of the top-performing compact SUVs in its segment
2. Mazda 3 (Sedan & Hatchback)
- MSRP: $24,170 – $37,000 USD
- 5-Year Retained Value: 61%
- Praised for premium interior, available AWD, and turbo engine
3. Mazda CX-50
- MSRP: Est. $31,000 – $42,000 USD
- 3-Year Retained Value: 77% (newer model but showing strong trends)
- Designed for adventure and daily comfort
4. Mazda CX-90
- MSRP: $40,970 – $59,950 USD
- 3-Year Retained Value: 74%
- Competes with Lexus RX, Acura MDX
These numbers rival or exceed what you’d find with Toyota, Subaru, or even luxury nameplates in similar categories.
Why Do Mazdas Hold Their Value So Well?
Mazda’s strong resale performance isn’t accidental. Several key factors contribute to its solid residuals:
1. Timeless Design
Mazda’s Kodo design language means your vehicle still looks fresh 5 years from now. Unlike trend-heavy competitors, Mazda models age gracefully.
2. Premium Interiors at a Lower Price Point
Materials and cabin designs often feel luxury-grade, helping vehicles retain appeal on the used market.
3. Strong Reliability Ratings
According to Consumer Reports, Mazda consistently ranks among the top brands for dependability.
4. High Safety Scores
Mazda vehicles routinely earn IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designations, which further boosts resale appeal.
5. Lower Supply, Higher Demand
Mazda keeps inventory and trims streamlined, meaning fewer low-value, stripped-down variants flood the used market—raising demand and resale pricing for well-equipped trims.
Resale Value vs. Initial Cost: Real ROI
Let’s run a quick comparison. If you purchase a Mazda CX-5 Turbo Signature AWD at $40,600 USD and retain 63% value over five years:
- Resale value at year 5: ~$25,578
- Depreciation: $15,022
Compare that to a similar compact SUV from another brand:
- MSRP: $40,000
- 5-Year Retained Value: 50% = $20,000
- Depreciation: $20,000
You save $5,000 just from holding value better. That’s without factoring in lower maintenance costs and fewer repairs.
Total Cost of Ownership: Mazda vs. the Field
| Vehicle | 5-Year Ownership Cost (USD) | Average Annual Maintenance | Insurance (Annual) |
| Mazda CX-5 | $31,800 | $410 | $1,320 |
| Honda CR-V | $33,400 | $430 | $1,350 |
| Toyota RAV4 | $32,900 | $450 | $1,310 |
| Ford Escape | $35,200 | $480 | $1,470 |
Mazdas combine low maintenance costs with above-average fuel economy (up to 35 MPG / 6.7 L/100 km on some models) and outstanding resale—making them a total ownership value winner.
How Marin Mazda Helps Protect Your Investment
At Marin Mazda, we do more than sell cars. We help drivers protect and maximize their investment.
Why Bay Area Buyers Choose Us:
- Transparent pricing and financing options
- Access to exclusive specials on high-value trims
- CPO inventory with extended warranties and 160-point inspections
- Experienced trade-in team that ensures top-dollar offers
Plus, we offer complimentary resale evaluations, so you can know your trade-in or resale value at any time.
Certified Pre-Owned (CPO): Resale Bonus Without the New Car Price
Mazda’s CPO program is among the best in the industry and contributes to resale performance:
- 7-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
- 12-month/12,000-mile limited warranty
- 24-hour roadside assistance
Used Mazdas certified through our program often retain value 5-10% higher than non-certified counterparts.
Real Marin Mazda Customer Insights
“I bought a CX-5 three years ago. Just traded it in and got over 70% of what I paid! Unreal compared to my last SUV.”
— Amanda, Santa Rosa
“I keep my cars a long time, but I looked up my Mazda 3 trade-in value and it shocked me. They really do hold up well.”
— Chris, Berkeley
Lease vs. Finance: Resale Value Still Matters
Even if you plan to lease, residual value affects your monthly payments. Higher resale = lower monthly cost.
Sample Lease Deals at Marin Mazda:
- CX-30 Select AWD: $279/month for 36 months
- Mazda 3 Hatchback Preferred: $289/month, $2,999 down
- CX-50 2.5 S Preferred Plus: $359/month, 36 months
Contact us to customize your lease based on usage, mileage, and projected resale.
Final Verdict: Do Mazdas Hold Their Value?
Yes—and often better than you think.
Mazdas have rapidly gained recognition not just for being fun-to-drive and stylish, but also for being smart investments. Whether you’re buying new or used, the real cost of owning a Mazda is lower than many competitors thanks to strong retained value, low maintenance, and high customer satisfaction.
If you’re ready to shop smart and enjoy the drive, now is the time to act.
Ready to Make a Smart Automotive Investment?
Shop Mazda Inventory | Unlock Limited-Time Offers | Contact Marin Mazda for a Free Trade-In Estimate or Test Drive Appointment.
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