Mazda’s entry into the premium compact SUV market is an impressive vehicle with its sophisticated cabin and superior safety ratings that sets it apart from mainstream rivals.
The CX-30 faces off against hatchbacks like the Kia Seltos and Chevy Trailblazer as well as small SUVs such as Nissan Qashqai and Volkswagen Tiguan in its market segment, boasting five seats with accident avoidance technology not typically seen elsewhere.
Safety
Mazda has always put drivers first as an exotic car. From ergonomic seats that optimize posture and combat fatigue to infotainment systems that support voice command features, there are subtle details everywhere that evoke driver-centricity. Mazda has extended this philosophy into its 2023 CX-30 SUV which was built to be driven on any surface imaginable; with an extensive safety suite to keep passengers safe no matter the road conditions you can count on it for safe passage to their destinations.
Every model comes equipped with automatic emergency braking and lane-departure warning, both enhanced with radar sensors to detect and avoid collisions, plus a rearview camera to make backing up safer than ever. You’ll also find rain-sensing windshield wipers, automatic high-beam headlights, rain sensors for windshield wipers, rain-sensing windshield wipers and rain sensing windshield wipers as standard features.
The base engine of the 2019 GMC Terrain SUV is a 2.5-liter turbo four, offering ample acceleration for effortless navigation through traffic. When using Sport Mode to access additional performance capabilities, driving becomes even more responsive and enjoyable; however, more fuel will be consumed during this process.
For those who prefer more of a relaxed drive, Eco drive mode offers an option that optimizes engine output while automatically adjusting transmission shift points to save both money and fuel.
The front seats are very comfortable, while passengers in the rear enjoy ample legroom. To create more cargo space when folding the rear seat down, this vehicle offers 45.2 cubic feet – slightly less than what’s found in its larger sibling Mazda CX-5 but more than enough space for most families.
The 2023 Mazda CX-30 has yet to be tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, but should easily achieve five-star status and Top Safety Pick+ status thanks to an array of cutting-edge safety features like blindspot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and advanced cruise control with stop-and-go capability. If you’re shopping for an attractive yet cost-effective SUV then take a good hard look at what the Mazda CX-30 has to offer!
Technology
The Mazda CX-30 stands out as one of the most enjoyable compact SUVs to drive on the market with its sporty handling and powerful available turbocharged engine, as well as its stylish yet premium-feeling interior that puts rivals from higher price ranges on notice. However, its lack of rear seat space and subpar fuel economy keep it from being an outright leader within its segment.
As the inaugural model of its kind, the Mazda CX-30 offers a distinct experience that sets itself apart from other subcompact SUVs. Its tailored feel can be immediately noticed in its tailored front cabin; high beltline and supportive seats create an inviting space. While cloth upholstery covers are standard on base versions, Preferred and Touring grades feature leather seats heated up front as well as power driver’s seats with tilt/telescope steering wheels – each model also comes standard with power driver’s seat adjustment capability and tilt/telescope steering wheels for improved driving dynamics.
The 8.8-inch infotainment system is easy to use, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration for seamless connectivity. It is responsive and intuitively operated; although lacking full touch functionality seen on other Mazda models. Instead, this screen features a rotary dial controller that makes selecting features quick and effortless.
All Mazda CX-30s come standard with an array of active safety features, such as auto-emergency braking, lane-keep assist and departure warning, automatic high beam control, blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert, traffic sign recognition, adaptive cruise control with stop and go capability as well as traffic jam assist for an easier highway ride. On Touring models these features are further enhanced.
Mazda has made significant strides this year to increase fuel economy across its line-up, including with the CX-30. Now achieving 25 city and 33 highway mpg is slightly better than last year but still falls short of efficient rivals such as Kia Niro and Volkswagen Taos.
The turbocharged engines of the CX-30 have been tuned to offer ample power and torque, giving it a lively acceleration off of the line. Their intelligent transmission recognizes when to downshift for quick acceleration without holding onto revs after corners clumsily.
Interior
The Mazda CX-30 stands out as a sophisticated and sporty entry in the extra-small SUV segment, featuring enjoyable handling and an extensive list of standard features that makes it a fantastic value proposition.
Inside, the interior is an oasis of soothing lines and muted textiles. The infotainment system is simple to use with its color touch-screen display offering intuitive control panel navigation; and an attractive minimalist white-on-black gauge cluster combines beautifully with its analog gauges that adorn either side.
Rearview camera and blind spot monitoring come standard on every Touring SP and Astina model, along with automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist with departure warning. Heated front seats can also be added and all front row passengers have power adjustability for optimal comfort.
Outside, the 2023 Mazda CX-30 exudes sleekness and athleticism with its wide-stance front end that wraps you like a hug. Its expressive grille and LED headlights are flanked by sharp-looking wheels before being finished off by its power sunroof for the finishing touch.
Back at the rear, the taillights feature horizontal swept taillights accentuated by an understated roof spoiler. Inside is comfortable with plenty of headroom and legroom in front. Rear seating space may be tighter for longer trips but still suitable for children or adults alike.
The base engine achieves an EPA-estimated 29 mpg combined fuel economy rating, making it competitive within its segment. Meanwhile, the turbo model delivers slightly reduced efficiency with 25 city and 33 highway mpg ratings respectively.
Mazda’s turbocharged engine is an absolute joy to drive. Packed with torque, acceleration is smooth and quick; steering response is responsive; suspension does a commendable job of handling canyon carving and mild off-roading maneuvers with ease.
The 2023 Mazda CX-30 stands out in its subcompact SUV category due to its sporty appeal and ample standard equipment. It provides an enjoyable driving experience that few competitors can match, including responsive steering and lively, precise throttle responses. Plus, its serene ride comfort cushions any harshness on worn concrete roads.
Performance
Mazda’s 2023 CX-30 subcompact SUV stands out from its subcompact SUV competition by being fun to drive regularly, thanks to agile driving dynamics, an engine well matched to its body style, and an upscale interior design. It makes an excellent everyday companion while looking great – making it a formidable competitor against models such as Nissan Qashqai, VW Tiguan and Ford Kuga in its class.
The CX-30 offers sufficient power with its base 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder, coupled to a six-speed automatic and all-wheel drive in its S trim, as well as its optional turbocharged variants featuring 250hp engines paired with six-speed autos and AWD. Plus, fuel economy surpasses that of its competition: according to the EPA it can get up to 25mpg combined city and highway driving.
The CX-30 stands out in this segment with an outstanding standard driver assistance feature set that makes it an outstanding value, such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, driver attention alert and rain-sensing wipers. Furthermore, you can upgrade its safety offering further with 360-degree camera, traffic sign recognition and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality.
Mazda’s innovative infotainment system, with its intuitive rotary knob controller on the center console instead of touchscreen display, is user-friendly and seamlessly integrated into vehicle controls. Optional equipment like heated front seats and an impressive 12-speaker audio system further add to its allure as a small SUV.
Rear-seat passengers should experience little discomfort on longer journeys thanks to ample legroom in the second row, although taller people may feel cramped as headroom is significantly reduced by the sloping roofline.
The premium design continues inside, where premium leather and wood accents adorn its interior. Furthermore, there are convenient amenities such as dual USB ports, keyless entry and push-button start. Wireless charging would only make things better!
