2025 Mazda CX-30 review
The CX-30 is Mazda’s entry into the subcompact SUV market, and this small SUV is worthy of Mazda’s reputation as a driving enthusiast brand. The CX-30 offers responsive acceleration, precise steering and handling, solid comfort and interior space, and functional utility, all in an attractive, sporty package.
The CX-30 is powered by a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter gas engine rated at 186 or 191 horsepower or a turbocharged version of this engine rated at 250 hp. Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Buyers can choose from available front-wheel drive or the standard all-wheel drive.
Explore the evolution of the Mazda CX-30
Get our expert take on used Mazda CX-30 models, or view year-by-year changes.
First generation Mazda CX-30
The CX-30 shows the practical design that sets Mazda vehicles apart. The seats are comfortable, with seating for up to five passengers. However, the CX-30 is small enough that four adults is a more reasonable limit. The front seats will easily accommodate drivers and passengers up to six feet tall.
Starting in 2021, Mazda offered a CX-30 Turbo rated at 250 horsepower, further enhancing the compact SUV’s performance-oriented demeanor.
The CX-30 provides functional cargo space, up to 20.2 cubic feet with the rear seats in use and more than twice that volume with the rear seats folded down. This makes the CX-30 a very versatile SUV. Buyers who choose the all-wheel-drive option will find that the CX-30 is more than capable on a trail or slippery surface, but the front-wheel-drive CX-30 is also nimble and will return a bit better fuel economy.
Model highlights
2.5-liter gasoline engine
Available turbocharged engine starting in 2021
Six-speed automatic transmission
Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive
Seating for up to five passengers
Up to 45 cubic feet of cargo capacity
Changes by year
Latest generation from 2020 - present
2025 Mazda CX-30
2024 Mazda CX-30
2023 Mazda CX-30
2022 Mazda CX-30
2021 Mazda CX-30
Highlights
CX-30 Turbo performance model added to the lineup
Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ added
Learn more
2020 Mazda CX-30
Jeff Zurschmeide has been an automotive journalist for more than 20 years, covering the new car business as well as motorsports and industry news. He lives in Tillamook, Oregon, at the confluence of great roads, nice weather, and plenty of space for a collection of strange old automobiles.
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