The 2024 CX-30 is a sophisticated and sporty entry in the extra-small SUV class. It has striking looks and plenty of standard features. Though it's priced higher than much of its competition, it offers a lot for your money. It's comfortable on the road and gives you a decent amount of storage too.Read full review
MSRP excludes taxes, title, license fees and $1,375 destination charge (Alaska $1,420). Vehicle shown may be priced higher. Actual dealer price will vary. See dealer for complete details.
Part of the first CX-30 generation introduced for 2020
Overview
The Mazda CX-30 is a diminutive SUV ideal for city dwellers, those with tight parking conditions, or anyone who needs a fun runabout. It seats five in relatively plush accommodations, and its sporty handling can spice up any drive. There are a few changes to the 2024 lineup, highlighted by the Select Sport (which adds a few eye-catching touches to last year's Select trim) and the Carbon Turbo trims. This model provides a lower-priced entry point to the available turbocharged engine and comes with special sand-colored paint and a tan interior. Stick with the base four-cylinder engine for the best value; the turbo option is zesty but remains pricey.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2024 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $2.99 per gallon for regular unleaded in Florida.
Edmunds' spotlight: The CX-30's sporty performance and classy refinement
The CX-30 distills Mazda's well-established formula of sporty handling paired with a responsive engine to the tiny-SUV level. Responsive, intuitive steering and all-wheel drive make it a joy to drive through curves and corners, with the added benefit of improved wet-weather traction. The base engine is a little sluggish, but no more so than rivals, and at least offers sharp accelerator response for a more engaging experience. The transmission sometimes falls a beat behind when you crave a little extra power, but it's tolerable. Like most Mazdas, the CX-30 offers an interior bordering on European luxury, with a premium look and feel. Also like most Mazdas, the CX-30 suffers a shortage of cargo capacity and it's among the smallest in the class. Be sure to read our Expert Rating below for a closer look at the CX-30.
Competitors to consider
Buyers who need max cargo space might consider the Chevrolet Trailblazer instead. It offers 5 more cubic feet of space, a massive gain in cars of this size. The Volkswagen Taos offers a bit more cargo space than the Trailblazer, with interior quality that measures up to the Mazda. The Hyundai Kona is a little more affordable, even with its optional turbo engine, but like the CX-30 it also comes up short in terms of passenger and cargo space.
What’s it like to live with?
Initial reviews are one thing, but whenever possible we like to live with a car to uncover its quirks and surprises. Edmunds tested a 2020 Mazda CX-30 Premium for a year and more than 17,000 miles. It proved to be a very enjoyable SUV to drive, confirming our initial impressions. Check out the whole story to learn more about the CX-30's real-world fuel economy, maintenance costs and more.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Our Verdict
The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
Good
7.9
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
The 2024 CX-30 is a sophisticated and sporty entry in the extra-small SUV class. It has striking looks and plenty of standard features. Though it's priced higher than much of its competition, it offers a lot for your money. It's comfortable on the road and gives you a decent amount of storage too.
How does the CX-30 drive? The CX-30 is easy and engaging to drive. The base engine provides better-than-average power for this class. Our test CX-30 needed 9 seconds to reach 60 mph, where rivals take more than 10 seconds. Of course, you can always go with the turbocharged engine if you have the need for speed. The 0-60 mph time is just 6.4 seconds, making the CX-30 Turbo the quickest car in its class. (It even beats a Volkswagen Golf GTI.) The steering is sharp and gives you a good feel for the road. It complements the CX-30's excellent handling as it hugs corners and feels composed and at home on twisty roads.
The transmission, left in its default mode, likes to upshift early to help maximize fuel economy. The transmission takes a beat to kick down if you're trying to pass at freeway speeds. Using the Sport mode helps liven up the CX-30's character.
Comfort
8/10
How comfortable is the CX-30? For a sporty SUV, the CX-30 is really quite comfortable. The front seats are supportive and comfortable enough for long drives. The rear seats are nicely padded and offer a good seating position that's not too upright. The suspension has a sporty tautness to it, but it's still adept at absorbing bumps and impacts.
Freeway cruising is especially nice. The CX-30 has one of the quieter cabins in the class, which lends it an upscale feel. The dual-zone climate control is a little weak for those who like it really cold, but the rear vents ensure rear passengers get their share. The heated seats take time to warm up but are nicely toasty once they are.
Interior
7.5/10
How’s the interior? The CX-30's interior is simple but classy. The controls are easy to see and understand. The infotainment system is laid out well, and navigating with the rotary knob is mostly easy. Thankfully, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto can be operated via touchscreen control as of the 2024 model year. (Previously, you had to use the infotainment system's dial controller.)
For an extra-small SUV, the CX-30's cabin is pretty roomy. In front, individuals 6 feet tall and under should have ample space in all directions. Though the CX-30 will accommodate five total, rear seat comfort is really optimized for two average-size adults.
The CX-30's swoopier shape involves some trade-offs. It isn't as easy to climb in and out of as its boxier rivals, and rear visibility is a bit compromised by a thick rear pillar and relatively small window.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Save as much as $4,262 with Edmunds Click on the trim you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal. Savings vary by trim; $4,262 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus trim.
MSRP excludes taxes, title, license fees and $1,375 destination charge (Alaska $1,420). Vehicle shown may be priced higher. Actual dealer price will vary. See dealer for complete details.
How’s the tech? The CX-30 comes standard with a good amount of tech. The advanced safety and driver aids are among the best in class in the way they operate. You even get a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot, though you'll have to pay for service after the trial ends. Our test CX-30 had two USBs and two 12-volt power ports up front.
The upgraded Bose audio system delivers a nice, clear sound with good bass. The navigation system is easy to use, and the base 8.8-inch infotainment display is a really bright and sharp screen. A larger 10.25-inch screen is available on certain models, which also brings touchscreen functionality for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Using the rotary dial is easy enough if you have the smaller screen or when you're in the Mazda menus.
Storage
7.5/10
How’s the storage? The CX-30 is middling in terms of storage compared to the class leaders. Cargo room behind the rear seats is decent, but the depth of the space from the hatch to the back of the rear seats seems shallow. A wide and tall hatch opening provides good access for loading. But because the rear seatbacks don't lie flush with the cargo floor when folded, it won't be as easy as it could be to slide in long, heavy items.
Storage for small items is a bit better. The sizable cubby in front of the gearshift, center armrest bin and glove compartment are mostly usable. The door pockets and cupholders are small but that's because it's a small vehicle. If you have young kids, installation access for car seats is great, but actual space for a larger rear-facing seat will be tight.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Fuel Economy
7.5/10
How’s the fuel economy? The CX-30 gets an EPA-estimated 29 mpg combined with the base engine, which is similar to what rival SUVs with all-wheel drive achieve. Mazda also offers a turbocharged engine that gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg. That's underwhelming but perhaps understandable given the boost in power. In general, our testing of the CX-30 has shown that the EPA's estimates are achievable in real-world driving.
Value
7.5/10
Is the CX-30 a good value? Mazda's pricing for the CX-30's base engine trims is competitive for the class and you get a pleasing amount of tech and convenience features for your money. There's less value to be had from the 2.5 Turbo trims as they are considerably more expensive. A CX-30 Turbo is hard to justify unless you've got a true need for speed.
On the upside, the CX-30's interior is roomy, and build quality is excellent with the interior adorned with soft-touch surfaces, leather and nicely placed chrome trim. The piano-black door handles creak a little at times and can leave smudges, but no one's going to notice there. Warranty and ownership costs are standard for the class.
Wildcard
8.5/10
The Mazda CX-30 is sophisticated, athletic and attractive inside and out. Just like the smaller Mazda CX-3, it handles curvy roads with precision and instills confidence as you continue to drive it, but it has the benefit of more interior space and comfort. All in all, it's a well-rounded vehicle.
Which CX-30 does Edmunds recommend?
We recommend the Select Sport trim. The price is right and it builds on the 2.5 S base trim with features such as synthetic leather upholstery, keyless entry and dual-zone climate control. The optional turbo engine adds significant cost but for buyers committed to the CX-30 who want extra power, it could be worth it.
2023 Mazda CX-30 Select 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
I got this over the Mazda 3 sedan/hatchback because it has better ground clearance, more rear headroom, and standard AWD. I've had it for about two weeks. Here's my pros and cons, coming from a 2019 Kia Optima.
Pros: the handling is amazing. It's so sharp in turns, with very little body roll. I have no problem going a higher speed in a turn. I enjoy driving it, it feels almost … therapeutic. Although, thanks to the great handling and 18' wheel size, you will feel more of the road.
Decent power: while it's no Porsche, the 191 hp engine has plenty of oomph to get you up to speed. Especially if you put it in sport mode. I have no problems with accelerating or maintaining higher speeds.
Interior quality: is top notch. Many soft touch services and comfy leatherette seats. The interior looks very classy and polished.
Features: great amount of features. Standard LED lights, apple/Android compatibility, and many active safety features. (I recommend getting the select, the one above the base, for blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert, you also get the leatherette seats, roof rails, and rear privacy window tint, and smart key)
Fuel economy: I get about 27 mpg with some highway but mostly city driving. That isn't bad for an AWD crossover.
Neutral: the safety features. The safety features are much more "hands off" compared to my 2019 Kia Optima. I don't ever hear my Mazda beeping at me for taking my hands off the steering wheel for a moment. The Kia Optima was definitely more of a "nanny" car.
Cons:
Infotainment and climate system is finicky to use at first. It is a little bit of a learning curve.
Cramped rear seats. This is not a vehicle if you're regularly going to be hauling around 4 or especially 5 full grown adults around all the time. It's just too small, especially the rear leg room. I'm about 5'6 and usually only have one passenger. So this is no problem for me.
The fuel capacity is only 12.7 gallons. So you will be filling up more often if you're coming from a bigger vehicle.
All-in-all a fantastic SUV for your money. As long as you view this as more of a lifted hatchback (due to its small size) than an actual SUV, and you like that idea, then this is the vehicle for you. Definitely give it a test drive, and test out the space, like folding the seats back.
Highly recommend and hope this review helped!
Best bang for the buck
5 out of 5 stars
Beezer73, 03/15/2023
2023 Mazda CX-30 Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
Comes standard with AWD, competitors charge $1500 more or don't offer it at all. They don't mention AWD in performance, value, wildcard, pro's/con's, how does it drive, or fuel economy. It should have been mentioned in all those because it affects all those. Despite me even writing them and telling them this, they refuse to change their review.
It also has more horsepower than most in … it's class. The Subaru Crosstek has 158hp and a CVT. This has 191 and a 6 speed.
On looks and handling alone, this is top of the class by FAR. Top tier crash numbers too.
I'm getting WAY over the rated mpg. On my morning 12 minute drive to the dog park and back, I get 34-37mpg average on that trip every morning. That's with 5 stops signs and 4 lights on that trip.
I bought a 2023 CX 30 a month or so ago. I went to purchase the 2023 CX 5, but when my wife saw the CX 30 I was overruled. I cannot believe this little S.U.V. It's so much fun to drive and I feel like I'm in a high-end vehicle. The interior is nothing short of awesome. It's engine is more then capable for any driver. Those who have stated it could use a little more power should have … bought a Dodge Charger. I could go on all day about this vehicle, but I will end this with. Great Vehicle!!!!!
Good value for money, looks good, few flaws
5 out of 5 stars
Leon B, 01/17/2022
2023 Mazda CX-30 Select 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)
Bought the car in Sept. 2021, have 5,200 miles at the time of posting of this to replace a 2014 Focus with the cursed DCT. Had considered a Mazda 3 sedan but this was not much more in price and better equipped. It is good value for the money. Inside and out much like a premium brand like Volvo, BMW, Audi and a step above a Honda, Toyota, Hyundai/Kia. Has a real transmission, not a DCT or … CVT. Has safety goodies like the cross-traffic backup warning, blind spot, lane warning systems I like and need. I am only 5'4" but sit in it well, easy to get in/out of. With back seat down, can put in a lot of stuff, more than in a sedan. Getting about 28 MPG in mixed suburban driving.
My only complaints are: The small cargo area with the back seats up, especially with the sharp angle of the upper part of the hatch gate. A few of the safety goodies a bit too nagging although some can be adjusted to be less annoying. The auto headlights don't go on when wipers are on (as required by law in NJ) in overcast daytime conditions, have to turn on manually. Get warnings to turn on and run car due to 'low battery' condition. Service warnings go on way too far before due (perhaps the dealer set it up that way ?). Has some blind spots even with warning systems.
Update 2/10/23 : Has about 24,000 miles on it. Took this on a 10,000 mile cross country trip from NJ to LA in Sept. 2022. Never missed a beat. Rode firm and comfortable on interstates to twisties in the Ozarks. A/C kept up with 100F + heat. Operated from sea level to 12,300 feet but only got a little weak at the highest altitudes. Fuel mileage up to 33 MPG highway, Slight hunting for gear in transmission at times. Small fuel tank, should be 1.5 to 2 gallons more. Sometime the lane departure warning sees tar crack filling instead of lane markers. Visibility poor to back/sides, the blind spot monitor and warning very important. Cargo area a bit small with back seats up. Mine is in silver and when cleaned and shined up, just glows beautifully. Had to transport a friend who has a partially missing lower right leg and is over 6 feet tall, very difficult for him to get in/out of the front passengers seat.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2024 Mazda CX-30, so we've included reviews for other years of the CX-30 since its last redesign.
Top Subcompact SUVs for 2021-2022 | Extra-Small & Easy to Drive – What's Not to Like?
NOTE: This video is about the 2021 Mazda CX-30, but since the 2024 Mazda CX-30 is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.
Subcompact SUVs have been gaining in popularity over the last few years. For people who don't need or want the space of a midsize SUV or for those who just want to save a few bucks, a subcompact SUV is a smart and economical choice. These extra-small SUVs maintain that elevated ride height and utility of their larger counterparts, but their smaller size means easier… parking and better gas mileage. What's not to like? In this video, Mark Takahashi runs down our choices for the best subcompact SUVs for 2021-2022. From the Subaru Crosstrek, the new Chevy Trailblazer and Hyundai Kona to the more luxurious BMW X1, Audi Q3 and Volvo XC40, Mark gives a breakdown of each pint-sized SUV. What do we like and dislike about each? What should you know about them? How do they rank in each category? Mark explains all. So whether you're a first-time driver, you have a small family or you're just looking for something fun to drive, we've got you covered in this video of the 2021 Top Subcompact SUVs.
MSRP excludes taxes, title, license fees and $1,375 destination charge (Alaska $1,420). Vehicle shown may be priced higher. Actual dealer price will vary. See dealer for complete details.
Safety
Our experts’ favorite CX-30 safety features:
Smart Brake Support
Warns you if you are rapidly approaching a vehicle, pedestrian or bicyclist. Can apply the brakes automatically to stop the vehicle to avoid or minimize a collision.
Mazda Radar Cruise Control
Maintains a driver-selected distance between the Mazda CX-30 and the car in front.
Lane Departure Warning System
Alerts the driver if the Mazda CX-30 begins wandering outside of its lane.
NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Driver
5 / 5
Passenger
5 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Driver
5 / 5
Passenger
5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Rating
Front Seat
5 / 5
Back Seat
5 / 5
Rollover
Rating
Rollover
4 / 5
Dynamic Test Result
No Tip
Risk Of Rollover
14.7%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
The Mazda CX-30 is one of the most complete small crossovers you can buy. Its upscale interior is one of the best in its class and nearly rivals more premium brands like Volvo and Infiniti. It also drives with a whiff of the old Mazda Zoom-Zoom character thanks to a gutsy optional turbocharged engine and lithe handling. In short, there's little we don't like about the CX-30, and it well outclasses competition from the Chevrolet Trailblazer and even the value-packed Kia Seltos.
As a result, we don't foresee Mazda changing the formula for 2024. If it ain't broke, why fix it? Mazda may shift options around between trim levels or add few new optional extras, but by and large, we expect the CX-30 to carry on the same as it ever was for at least one more model year.
Edmunds says
The CX-30 sits near the top of our rankings, and though the small crossover segment is a hot one, we don't expect Mazda to lose its edge over the competition.
FAQ
Is the Mazda CX-30 a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2024 CX-30 both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.9 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2024 CX-30 gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 58 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the CX-30 has 20.2 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Mazda CX-30. Learn more
What's new in the 2024 Mazda CX-30?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2024 Mazda CX-30:
New Carbon Turbo special edition joins lineup
New Select Sport replaces Sport model
Minor additions and changes to trim equipment
Part of the first CX-30 generation introduced for 2020
To determine whether the Mazda CX-30 is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the CX-30. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the CX-30's 4-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2024 Mazda CX-30 a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2024 Mazda CX-30 is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2024 CX-30 and gave it a 7.9 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2024 CX-30 gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 58 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2024 CX-30 is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2024 Mazda CX-30?
The least-expensive 2024 Mazda CX-30 is the 2024 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $24,995.
Other versions include:
2.5 S 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $24,995
2.5 S Select Sport 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $26,500
2.5 S Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $28,790
2.5 S Carbon Edition 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $29,790
2.5 S Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $31,990
2.5 Carbon Turbo 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $32,790
2.5 Turbo Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $34,990
2.5 Turbo Premium Plus 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $36,800
If you're interested in the Mazda CX-30, the next question is, which CX-30 model is right for you? CX-30 variants include 2.5 S 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A), 2.5 S Select Sport 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A), 2.5 S Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A), and 2.5 S Carbon Edition 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A). For a full list of CX-30 models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more
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