Toyota vs Mazda Reliability: It's Closer Than We Expected
Mazda and Toyota are two of the most recognizable auto brands globally, but while their approach to vehicle design has some similarities, they still offer very distinct and unique models from each other. Toyota has historically been the default choice for solid dependability and hybrid efficiency, allied with a strong value proposition, while Mazda has generally offered a bit more driving excitement, allied with a premium feel without the premium pricing.
They compete across several segments, and while Mazda has certainly seen an increase in sales over the past five years, it has a long way to go before challenging Toyota's dominance in the US market. But even though it can't compete in total units shifted figures, Mazda has been getting closer to Toyota in terms of reliability, a key factor in convincing buyers to part with their hard-earned cash.
To see just how these two stack up, we sourced the latest reliability data from Consumer Reports (CR), which remains the most trusted name in automotive research because of its independence. Unlike other outlets, CR buys the cars it tests and bases its reliability ratings on hundreds of thousands of member surveys, providing a true reflection of real-world ownership. The data used here covers the 2023, 2024, and 2025 model years, looking at 20 different potential trouble areas to predict how a new model will perform. The results make for some interesting reading.
Compact SUV: Mazda CX-5 vs. Toyota RAV4
- Toyota Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 80/100
- 2026 Toyota RAV4 base MSRP:$31,900
- Mazda Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 72/100
- 2026 Mazda CX-5base MSRP:$29,900
While both models put in a strong showing here, the RAV4 edges out the CX-5 primarily due to Toyota's dominance in powertrain reliability. It 2.5-liter engine has proven to be tough and durable both, even in hybrid form. The CX-5 remains highly reliable but loses a few points to the RAV4 due to some owner complaints about infotainment glitches, power liftgate issues and transmission problems.
It is worth noting that both models were replaced with newer versions recently, and the reliability data will have changed for the next matchup. The CX-5, for example, has dropped the optional turbo engine, and its infotainment has been completely revamped. The images above are for the latest 2026 models.
Subcompact Crossover: Mazda CX-30 vs. Toyota Corolla Cross
- Toyota Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 71/100
- 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross base MSRP:$25,035
- Mazda Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 66/100
- 2026 Mazda CX-30 base MSRP:$25,975
The Toyota Corolla Cross narrowly takes this category as well, and part of its continued success is that it benefits from using the same TNGA-C platform and engine components as the legendary Corolla sedan. This gives it a high baseline in terms of dependability.
The CX-30 is a top-tier performer in its own right, but some owners have reported minor electronic glitches in the infotainment system and early-wear issues with interior trim pieces, which slightly pulled its score below its Toyota rival. While there is still some room for improvement here, both of these subcompact crossovers are closely matched.
Compact Cars: Mazda3 vs. Toyota Corolla
- Toyota Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 78/100
- Toyota base MSRP:$23,125
- Mazda Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 74/100
- Mazda base MSRP:$24,550
The margin for victory keeps getting narrow for Toyota, and the Corolla wins by just 4 points against the Mazda3. Sharing several of its components with other Toyota models, the Corolla benefits from a rugged CVT transmission and unstressed non-turbocharged engine. The Mazda3 scores impressively well, and its success also stems from well-proven mechanical components like a traditional 6-speed automatic transmission.
It is also available with an optional turbocharged engine which makes it far more fun to drive, but may not be the best choice for long-term reliability. The Corolla is also available with two engine options, but in this case the second choice is a hybrid, and it has proven to be exceptionally durable in several Toyota models, and this helps lift the brand's overall average in this category.
Midsize SUV: Mazda CX-90 vs. Toyota Highlander
- Toyota Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 75/100
- 2026 Toyota Highlander base MSRP:$45,870
- Mazda Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 25/100
- 2026 Mazda CX-90 base MSRP:$38,800
If Toyota fans were worrying that the next category would result in a Mazda victory, they can breathe a sigh of relief, the Highlander wins the Midsize SUV segment with ease. But. And this is a big but, the data is based on the 2023-2025 model years, and the Mazda CX-90 was released in 2024 using a new platform with newly developed engines. As is common with all-new models, the CX-90 has suffered from some issues, in this case the most common have been software bugs and powertrain hiccups.
The Highlander has been around since 2020, allowing it to mature into a more reliable offering, but the larger and newer Grand Highlander has been encroaching on its territory, and for 2027 the Highlander will be replaced by an all-electric version. While the Grand Highlander will remain, its reliability score is a less impressive 45/100, which is also partly due to its newness.
Sports Cars: Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. Toyota GR86
- Mazda Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 70/100
- Mazda MX-5 base MSRP:$30,430
- Toyota Consumer Reports Reliability Score: 61/100
- Toyota GR86 base MSRP:$31,400
It took a while, but Mazda has managed to take a win thanks to the solid performance of its long-running MX-5 sports car. While it has undergone several updates, the fourth-generation MX-5 has been around since 2016, and thanks to years of refinement it handily beats the Toyota GR86 in reliability terms.
The Toyota GR86 isn't a direct rival for the MX-5 as it is a hardtop with a set of (small) rear seats, but the philosophies behind both are the same. Both use a high-revving non-turbocharged engine, have manual transmissions as standard and power is sent solely to the rear wheels. Where the Toyota falls short is in the reliability of its 2.4-liter Boxer engine. Built in partnership with Subaru, this motor has had some oil and gasket-related issues, while Mazda's 2.0-liter inline-four has proven to be as solid as the rest of the package.
In summary, aside from the dismal showing of the Mazda CX-90, the reliability scores between these two brands are a lot closer than most might have expected. And with the move to newer, untested technologies in the coming years, the accepted hierarchy may be upended when we next make this comparison.
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This story was originally published May 2, 2026 at 7:30 AM.