Based on the nimble Mazda 3, the CX-30 is one of the most athletic subcompact SUVS available. Its crisp steering and fluid body movements make it fun to pilot on twisty roads, and its turbo engine offers better-than-average power for this class.
Its upscale cabin also punches above its weight class, with luxury features and details rivalling those of pricier competitors. However, it trails many of its rivals in rear-seat and cargo space.
Safety
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 is a smart-looking subcompact SUV with a premium feel. It boasts upscale interior quality and an engaging driving experience, but its appeal is held back by a small cargo space and modest performance. The standard engine produces only 191 hp, while a turbocharged version with increased power is also available. We’ve tested a turbo-powered model and found it to be quick and agile.
A rotary dial allows you to select from various drive modes, ranging from Sport to Normal to Eco. Using these modes changes the vehicle’s engine settings, transmission, and throttle. You can even adjust the steering wheel responsiveness to match your driving style. A suite of preventive safety features is also standard in the CX-30, including blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning with lane keep assist, and a driver attention alert system.
Euro NCAP crash testing awarded the CX-30 five stars, the highest rating in its class. Its all-around reliability score is high, too. Unlike many rivals, Mazda includes three years of limited warranty coverage with the CX-30.
Comfort
Mazda has long prioritised driver comfort in its vehicles, and the CX-30 is no exception. Its front seats are supportive and comfortable, and pricier trim levels offer adjustable lumbar support. Even tall drivers should fit in the back, and there’s enough headroom. The cockpit also feels upscale, with a wealth of plush materials and elegant chrome trim. Controls on the infotainment display and climate panel click, turn and move with satisfying precision, helping reduce distractions while driving.
The 2.0-litre base engine and six-speed automatic transmission are a joy to drive, offering strong performance with respectable fuel efficiency. A turbo model makes the CX-30 one of the quickest subcompact SUVS in its segment, though it’s a bit less efficient.
Standard features include a pair of USB ports and Bluetooth, as well as a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot. A larger 10.3-inch infotainment display and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration are offered in the higher trims. Alexa integration letallowsu bypto ass the touchscreen by using voice commands to access a range of funfunctionalitiesncluding audio, maps, and more.
The Mazda CX-30 is among the quieter models in its class, which helps give it an upscale feel. The standard dual-zone climate control is a welcome addition, and rear passengers enjoy the benefit of their vents. The Mazda Connect app allows users to lock and unlock their vehicle remotely, as well as monitor its performance, making it a helpful feature for those who frequently leave their car unattended.
Technology
As expected with a Mazda, the CX-3 features a strong suite of preventive safety measures. The standard i-ACTIVSENSE(r) suite includes blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist and rear cross-traffic alert, plus forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. It also features a head-up display that displays speed, speed limit, and navigation information directly in your line of sight.
The standard 8.8-inch infotainment display supports Apple CarPlay(r) and Android Auto integration, along with Bluetooth(r) connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming. A full-colour active driving display and an available Bose(r) 12-speaker premium sound system enhance driver awareness and enjoyment.
A turbo engine boosts the CX-30’s sprightly handling and agility. It accelerated to 60 mph in less than 8 seconds on our test track, outpacing the Kia Niro and Subaru Crosstrek non-turbo models and nearly matching the turbocharged Hyundai Kona.
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 is an appealing choice among small SUVS, combining refined, athletic styling and interior comfort with sporty performance. It’s easy to drive on curvy roads and instils confidence when cruising down highways. But its size limits storage space and cargo flexibility compared to class leaders. The hatchback-like body design, however, makes it easy to get in and out of the cabin. Its sleek, minimalist exterior design embodies the automaker’s Kodo design philosophy.
Value
Mazda’s pint-sized CX-30 SUV is an exceptional value. Even the non-turbo models rank among today’s most fuel-efficient all-wheel drive subcompact SUVS and offer impressive powertrain performance when you upgrade to a turbo model. They also feature a classy, premium interior and an array of driver assistance features that rival those of many competitors’ top trim levels.
A part-digital driver’s display in the dash is easy to read and places key information, such as speed, navigation, and warnings, within your line of sight. A head-up display is also available, which projects the infotainment screen’s information onto the road ahead, allowing you to keep your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.
The CX-30 boasts an elegant silhouette that stands out from the standard-issue plastic-and-metal look of other small SUVS. Its sculpted bodywork and bold lower-body moulding give it a more refined, upscale appearance, while the redesigned grille and slim headlights project a more confident and adventurous aura.
The 2025 CX-30’s distinctive styling and premium feel make it a good choice for drivers who value powerful sophistication. The cabin is well-appointed, with a classy dashboard adorned with plush, expensive-looking materials. And while it’s filled with tech, the CX-30’s designers took care to place physical buttons and knobs near most frequently used functions, which increases functionality and decreases driver distraction.
