Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) proudly announced that nearly every Mazda model has earned a spot on the updated list of recommended new and used vehicles for teen drivers, as compiled by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and Consumer Reports (CR). This accolade underscores Mazda’s unwavering commitment to safety, affordability, and cutting-edge technology, positioning their vehicles as top choices for families seeking reliable options for their teen drivers.
Collaborative Safety Initiative by IIHS and CR
Since 2020, the IIHS and CR have partnered to curate this annual list, designed to guide families toward vehicles that prioritize safety without straining their budgets. Teen drivers, due to their inexperience and immaturity, face elevated risks on the road, making the choice of vehicle a critical decision. Jennifer Morrison, Mazda North American Operations’ Director of Vehicle Safety Strategy, noted, “The most dated car in the driveway may not be the best choice for your teen.” She added, “But good news, there are plenty of new and used Mazda vehicles that are both affordable and loaded with safety tech according to this updated list. Mazda is proud to have vehicles in nearly every category to choose from.” 
Stringent Criteria for Inclusion
Vehicles featured on the list undergo rigorous evaluations. Both new and used models must achieve average or better scores (3 out of 5) from CR in braking, emergency handling, and routine handling, alongside usability scores of at least 2 out of 5 for controls and displays—ensuring that overly complex or distracting systems are excluded. Standard electronic stability control is also a prerequisite.
- Used Vehicles: Must earn good ratings in five IIHS crash tests: original moderate overlap front, original side, driver-side small overlap front, roof strength, and head restraints.
- New Vehicles: Must be recipients of the 2025 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK or TOP SAFETY PICK+ awards, excelling in updated, tougher crash tests, and featuring standard good or acceptable headlights, good-rated seat belt reminders, and high-performing automatic emergency braking.
Morrison, a parent to a teen driver herself, emphasized the value of these safety features: “Having a teen driver myself, I find peace of mind knowing they are behind the wheel of a vehicle with top safety ratings and systems like automatic emergency braking and seat belt reminders. These are standard features on new and used Mazda vehicles because they have been proven to reduce crashes and mitigate injuries. A benefit I’m happy to provide to my teen, and yours.”
Recommended Mazda Vehicles for Teens
Mazda’s extensive representation on the list spans multiple categories, offering families a broad range of safe and budget-friendly options.
Best New Mazda Vehicles for Teens (2025 Models)
- Small Cars:
- Mazda 3 Hatchback
- Mazda 3 Sedan
- Small SUVs:
- Mazda CX-30
- Mazda CX-50
- Midsize SUVs:
- Mazda CX-70
- Mazda CX-90
Best Used Mazda Vehicles for Teens
- Small Cars:
- Mazda 3 Sedan (2014-19; built after October 2013) – $5,000
- Mazda 3 Hatchback (2014-19; built after October 2013)
- Mazda 3 Hatchback (2019 or newer) – $12,100
- Mazda 3 Sedan (2020 or newer) – $13,000
- Midsize Cars:
- Mazda 6 (2016-18) – $7,300
- Mazda 6 (2019-21; built after June 2019) – $14,000
- Small SUVs:
- Mazda CX-3 (2016-19) – $6,800
- Mazda CX-3 (2020-21) – $12,900
- Mazda CX-5 (2014-19; built after October 2013) – $7,200
- Mazda CX-5 (2020 or newer) – $15,400
- Mazda CX-30 (2022 or newer) – $18,000
- Midsize SUVs:
- Mazda CX-9 (2017-20; built after November 2016) – $9,800
- Mazda CX-9 (2021 or newer) – $18,500
Mazda’s Commitment to Safety and Affordability
Mazda’s near-sweep of the IIHS and CR recommendations reflects its dedication to equipping vehicles with advanced safety technologies while keeping costs accessible. From small cars starting at $5,000 for used models to feature-rich 2025 SUVs, Mazda ensures that parents can select a vehicle that balances safety and affordability. Whether choosing a new or used Mazda, families can trust that their teens are driving vehicles designed to protect them with the latest in safety innovation.
