Mazda has kicked off the New Year in strong fashion with two vehicles earning 10 Best Awards from Car and Driver magazine. The 2016 Mazda3 and Mazda MX-5 Miata are both recipients of the respected magazine’s 10 Best Award. In fact, Mazda is the only automaker to have two vehicle earn 10 Best Awards in each of the last three years.

Whereas some annual awards limit entries to only all-new or significantly redesigned vehicles, Car and Driver allows all eligible vehicles to participate in its 10 Best awards. This in turn makes the pool of candidates larger and much more competitive.

Despite the increased competition, the Mazda3 sedan and five-door hatchback have once again secured their spot on the list for the third time in as many years. Both models boast fun-to-drive handling dynamics, striking KODO—Soul of Motion design and efficient, yet powerful SKYACTIV engines.

“Car and Driver’s 10Best awards are a celebration of cars that not only meet the needs of discerning enthusiasts but also their wants, including the class-leading performance and sophisticated design and feel only Mazda vehicles can deliver,” said Robert Davis, senior VP of US operations, Mazda North American Operations in a press release.

Not to be left out, the all-new 2016 Mazda MX-5 roadster returned to the 10 Best list, too, having been reborn lighter, more efficient, and with better performance for the 2016 model year. The all-new Mazda MX-5 also benefits from a sleek exterior redesign as well as a greater number of amenities, in-demand technologies, and safety features.

The Mazda MX-5 is no stranger to Car and Driver’s 10 Best Award. The world’s most popular roadster has garnered a total of 14 Car and Driver 10 Best honors since its introduction as a 1990 model.

Of course, we at Cutter Automotive Galleries believe the best way to experience either of these award-winning vehicles is behind the wheel, so be sure to contact or visit us at today for a test drive.

Image: Mazda