As the world moves toward EV and zero-emission vehicles, 2022 will see the retirement of two Mazda vehicles. The once-popular models, the CX-3 and the Mazda6, will cease production. The company is moving towards better features, higher-end technology, and an overall move towards EVs. These more advanced features account for the low sales of these once popular models. 

The Mazda CX-3 is saying goodbye

When Mazda entered into the new subcompact crossover sport utility vehicle segment, they had big ideas for the small SUV known as the Mazda CX-3. Unfortunately, it was outshone by some of Mazda’s own vehicles, including the Mazda 3 hatchback and the CX-30 crossover. The company also recently announced it was realigning its SUV lineup, so the CX-3‘s time was up. 

The CX-3 was a car-like SUV, advertised as fun to drive and practical. The four-door compact had a chiseled, modern-looking exterior with a forward-leaning design. A 146 hp 4-cylinder engine provided the power and was equipped with all-wheel drive and responsive suspension. A limited cargo area drove many potential customers to head for the CX-30, which wasn’t much higher in price. 

Inside, the Mazda CX-3 was a high-tech, modern design. The 2021 dash featured an older Mazda infotainment system with rotary dial control. The 7-inch touchscreen offered drivers smartphone and climate control integration. A cramped back seat was one of the top complaints about the CX-3, along with the lack of cargo space. 

Mazda6 had its glory days

Waning sales are the culprit behind Mazda6’s demise. Originally a popular midsize family sedan with performance at its heart, the Mazda6 has dropped in sales. One reason is the booming popularity of small SUVs over sedans. It was also overshadowed by Mazda’s own Mazda3 Sedan with a turbo engine and 250 hp, offering drivers more exciting choices at a similar price point. 

The 2021 Mazda6 sported a powerful, 2.5-liter turbo engine, delivering 250 hp. The Carbon Edition featured Mazda’s Dynamic Pressure Turbo engine and exclusive black metallic details. Technology on all Mazda6 models includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. 

JD Powers reports that the Mazda 6 may still have life. The sedan might make a comeback with a sportier, more upscale EV version soon. This makes sense since Mazda only has one EV in its lineup currently.

Mazda’s EV plans for the future

Like most car companies, Mazda has ambitious plans for its EV future. As part of Mazda’s commitment to planet Earth, it plans to be carbon neutral during the entire life cycle of its vehicles and throughout its entire supply chain by 2050. By looking at the entire lifecycle of their vehicles, it is not just focused on reducing emissions. Manufacturing, shipping, driving, disposal and recycling, and resource collection fall under Mazda’s plan to be part of a greener future. 

Mazda is focused on energy and global warming issues and striving to provide more efficient internal combustion engines, hybrid engines, plug-in hybrids, and all-electric cars that suit the power needs of a new generation. These technologies include wind, hydro, solar, and carbon-neutral fuel. 

One example is the new 2022 Mazda MX-30 EV is designed with the American commuter in mind. Available in California in 2022, it has a 100-mile range on a full battery. The Mazda MX-30 will offer convenient at-home charging options that make an all-electric vehicle simple to own, like an included 120-volt charging cable that can plug into any household outlet.