This Best-Selling Vehicle Is One Of The Most Reliable Cars, According To Consumer Reports

When it comes to practical, everyday cars, there are myriad reliable options available across brands and models alike, many of which have sold in the tens of millions. The Toyota Corolla, for instance, has sold over 50 million units and remains one of the most reliable nameplates. For trucks, the Ford F-Series has surpassed 40 million sales. But not everyone wants something overly practical; some people just want a reliable, fun car to drive — and this is where the Mazda MX-5, also known as the Miata, shines.

When Mazda developed the MX-5 Miata in the late '80s, one mantra guided everything the company built for it: "Jinba Ittai," meaning "horse and rider as one." It was made to be a small, lightweight, and responsive open-air two seater to rival the reigning British and Italian roadsters, but with Japanese reliability and better daily usability. The car's low price point and enthusiast appeal made it so successful that, in the year 2000, it earned the Guinness World Record for the best-selling two-seat sports car. By 2016, Mazda had produced over 1 million units.

While enthusiasts enjoy this nimble roadster, Consumer Reports (CR) has also given it a stamp of reliability. Generally, Mazda has been doing well on CR's survey-based lists, even ranking as the most reliable brand overall in 2020. The Miata, specifically, ranks on CR's list of 2024's 10 most reliable cars, with a reliability score of 84 out of 100.

The Miata is cheap for a sports car, with the 2025 MX-5 starting around $30,000. But, if you're buying it solely to save costs, you might get more "car" for even less money if you go for a Mazda3, which starts at an MSRP of $24,550 for 2025, making it one of the best cheap and reliable cars according to Consumer Reports. The Mazda3 is a four-door sedan that seats five people, while the Miata is a two-seat roadster with far less interior space but more "sportiness." 

If space is a particularly important factor in your choice of vehicle, you might be better served going with a CX-5. It's a compact crossover SUV that's about the same price as the MX-5, but with more room than the Mazda3 or the Miata. This SUV's price, relatively good performance, and interior space — while smaller than many in its category — make it one of the best cars for retirees. At least, you'll have enough space to run errands and carry a set of golf clubs around.

If none of these Mazda alternatives sound appealing to you, then the Miata is for you. It's best driven as a second car, one that you get into when you don't need to haul anything or run major errands. It's a quick and nimble roadster that can do well on a track, but it could also work as an enthusiast's daily or weekend drive.