Car and Driver Mazda Editors Choice 2026 Thomaston
Car and Driver Mazda Editors Choice 2026 Thomaston
Key Takeaways
- Car and Driver has named four specific Mazda models to its prestigious 2026 Editor’s Choice list.
- The winning models include the Mazda3, Mazda CX-5, Mazda CX-50, and the Mazda CX-90.
- Recognition is based on a combination of driving dynamics, interior quality, and overall value.
- Modern Mazda offers these award-winning vehicles to drivers throughout the Thomaston and New England region.
Which Mazda models earned the 2026 Car and Driver Editor’s Choice award?
The four Mazda models that earned the 2026 Car and Driver Editor’s Choice award are the Mazda3, the Mazda CX-5, the Mazda CX-50, and the flagship Mazda CX-90. These vehicles were selected because they consistently outperform their respective class competitors in terms of engagement, refinement, and design. Each model represents Mazda’s ability to blend premium luxury with an accessible price point for Connecticut buyers.
This recent accolade from one of the world’s most respected automotive publications reinforces Mazda’s position as a leader in vehicle dynamics. At Modern Mazda, an esteemed member of the Shaker Auto Group, we are thrilled to showcase these recognized models to our local community. Driving through the scenic Litchfield Hills or commuting to Waterbury requires a vehicle that is both reliable and enjoyable, and these Editor’s Choice winners are engineered specifically to meet those high expectations.
Why does the Mazda3 continue to win Car and Driver awards?
The Mazda3 continues to win awards because it offers a level of interior sophistication and steering precision typically reserved for much more expensive European sport sedans. Available in both sedan and hatchback forms, it provides a tactile driving experience that makes daily trips through Thomaston more engaging. Its balance of power, especially with the available turbocharged engine, makes it a standout in the compact segment.
In New England, where road conditions can change in an instant, the Mazda3 with available i-Activ AWD provides the confidence needed for year-round driving. Car and Driver testers often praise the vehicle’s “Jinba Ittai” philosophy—the feeling of oneness between horse and rider—which translates to a car that responds intuitively to every driver input. This connection is particularly noticeable when navigating the winding turns of Route 254 or the diverse terrain of the Connecticut River Valley.
What makes the Mazda CX-5 a perennial favorite for editors?
The Mazda CX-5 remains a favorite because it refuses to compromise on quality, even as newer competitors enter the market. Its classic design, premium cabin materials, and standard all-wheel drive make it an ideal choice for the Connecticut lifestyle. It manages to feel like a luxury vehicle while maintaining the practical utility that New England families require for their daily routines.
Car and Driver editors have long appreciated the CX-5 for its ride and handling balance, which soaks up the bumps on frost-heaved Connecticut roads without feeling disconnected. The 2026 model continues this legacy, offering a quiet cabin that rivals many luxury SUVs. When you visit Modern Mazda to explore this model, you’ll see why it has been a staple on “Best Of” lists for over a decade.
How does the Mazda CX-50 differ from the CX-5 for local drivers?
The Mazda CX-50 differs from the CX-5 by offering a more rugged, outdoor-oriented design and a wider stance that is perfect for Northfield or Black Rock State Park adventures. While the CX-5 is refined for the city, the CX-50 is built to handle unpaved paths and carry heavier gear like kayaks or mountain bikes. Its reinforced roof rails and specialized drive modes make it a versatile tool for the New England explorer.
The CX-50’s inclusion in the 2026 Editor’s Choice list highlights Mazda’s successful expansion into the rugged crossover segment without losing its signature driving soul. It features a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds on turbo models, allowing Thomaston residents to haul small trailers or campers with ease. This combination of utility and performance is exactly what Car and Driver editors look for when evaluating the best vehicles on the market today.
Why is the Mazda CX-90 considered a top choice for large families?
The Mazda CX-90 is considered a top choice because it reimagines the three-row SUV as a high-performance luxury vehicle. Built on a rear-wheel-drive biased platform with an available inline-six turbocharged engine, it offers a level of mechanical sophistication that is rare in its class. For large families in Connecticut, it provides the space they need without sacrificing the fun-to-drive nature Mazda is known for.
The CX-90 represents the pinnacle of Mazda’s “Large Product Group,” and its presence on the Editor’s Choice list confirms that the brand can compete with the world’s best luxury manufacturers. Whether you are taking the family for a day trip to the Connecticut coast or hauling gear for a local sports team, the CX-90 does so with grace and power. Its premium interior, featuring Nappa leather and real wood trim on higher grades, makes every mile feel special.
Where can I test drive these Editor’s Choice winners in Connecticut?
You can test drive all four of these award-winning models at Modern Mazda in Thomaston, where our team can help you compare the unique strengths of each vehicle. From the nimble Mazda3 to the spacious CX-90, seeing these cars in person allows you to appreciate the craftsmanship that earned them a spot on the 2026 Car and Driver list. Our experts are ready to explain the technical details and performance features that set these models apart.
The 2026 Editor’s Choice awards are a testament to Mazda’s unwavering commitment to building cars for people who love to drive. Each of these four models has been vetted by the most demanding critics in the industry and has come out on top. We invite you to experience this excellence for yourself and find out which award-winning Mazda fits your specific lifestyle and driving needs in New England.
Finding the right vehicle means choosing one that has been recognized for its quality, performance, and value by the experts. We encourage you to visit Modern Mazda, a proud part of the Shaker Auto Group, to explore the 2026 Car and Driver Editor’s Choice winners in our current inventory. Our team is dedicated to providing a premium experience as you discover why Mazda continues to dominate the automotive industry’s most prestigious lists. Stop by our Thomaston showroom today to take a test drive and find your next favorite vehicle.
*Penned by AI, polished by humans
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