2024 Mazda CX-30 review
wraparound
This small Mazda is still the first choice for motorists in this field.
merit
- Great style
- Powerful power
- Worth
shortcoming
- The rear seats are narrow
- Less luggage space
- Some features are missing
Choice can be a good thing.
In the world of subcompact crossovers, the options are many, perhaps even too many. This means that whether buyers prefer a car for rugged adventures, hauling items, saving fuel, or just enjoying the fun of commuting and running errands, there is at least a good car to choose from.
Considering the advantages of the 2024 Mazda CX-30, it can help buyers narrow down their options so that they can look for a small car that is stylish and fun to drive.
Styling: 8.5/10
Mazda's entire range of models age gracefully. While competitors in this segment vary in styling from over-the-top off-road vehicles to props from the movie "Cyber World Wars," the CX-30 is stylish, sporty, and well-proportioned. Despite the fact that its paint color is as vibrant and exciting as freshly cured concrete, it has received such accolades – although, undeniably, it is beautifully painted. Oversized black plastic fenders are a bit over-the-top to be picky, but they're trendy these days and can practically withstand real-world wear and tear, so we won't mention it.
The interior is upholstered in some crimson leather, with stitching punctuated in a subtle black space. The center console around the gear lever has a series of commonly used buttons, but they are made of glossy black plastic that quickly picks up fingerprints and dust. But overall, the cockpit design is clean, clean, and durable.
Driving experience: 8.5/10
The CX-30 has a great look and a better driving experience than mainstream crossovers. The feel of the steering and the way the body movement is controlled when cornering can give drivers the illusion that they're driving a sporty small hatchback – think about it, it's all similar to the Mazda 3. The CX-30 can't withstand potholes like the Subaru Crosstrek, but its flexibility makes it a fun option to enjoy winding country roads.
Power: 7/10
While Mazda offered the CX-30 GT an optional turbocharged engine, the heart of our test car was a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter inline-four engine that made 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. These numbers are even competitive with the optional turbocharged engines of the Hyundai Kona and Kia Seltos.
While it sounds a bit rugged, the 2.5L engine matches the CX-30 well, giving it plenty of overtaking power to make it feel energetic while driving around town. Its six-speed automatic transmission is also dynamic, with fairly fast shifts. Despite the fast shifts, the shifts are smooth enough not to attract attention.
While this engine may be enough for most drivers, enthusiasts with high power needs who opt for the CX-30 may be willing to pay an extra $2,400 for a turbocharged version that puts out more than 300 pound-feet of torque and makes it significantly faster.
Fuel economy: 7.5/10
Of course, choosing a turbocharged engine also brings with it a greater demand for fuel, consuming significantly more fuel than the non-turbocharged version. Here, the CX-30 has a city fuel consumption of 9.0 l/100 km, a highway fuel consumption of 7.1 l/100 km, and a combined fuel consumption of 8.2 l/100 km, all of which are competitive in the segment. During the week-long test, which we drove more on the highway than in the city, we saw an average fuel consumption of around 7 seconds – in full line with the official figures, and only regular grade gasoline was required.
The CX-30's tiny 48-liter fuel tank means refueling is less painful in terms of cost, but too often for shorter mileage.
Security: 9.5/10
Safety is a selling point, and Mazda has done the same with a host of advanced safety suites as standard among major competitors. Its system integrates adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive headlights with automatic high beam control. In addition to this, Mazda has received a "Top Safety Choice" rating from the non-profit Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) United States.
Features: 7/10
As a high-end model, the CX-30 GT test car is equipped with the refined features expected of today's high-end models. Dual-zone climate control, 12-speaker stereo, in-car navigation, sunroof, power tailgate and heated front seats. Some competitors also offer heated rear seats and ventilated front seats, both of which are not available here.
User-friendliness: 7/10
Thanks to the all-new 10.25-inch screen, Mazda now includes touchscreen operation when using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Unfortunately, cumbersome knobs are still required to operate most functions. It will also take a little time to get used to the position of the small volume knob next to the driver in the center console, rather than higher on the dashboard. The climate control is very simple, with a dial for adjusting the temperature and physical buttons for other operations.
The driving position is sportier than some other small crossovers, further cementing the model's reputation as a sporty model. The front view is good, but the rear three-quarters view is hampered by a sloping roofline and a shorter side glass profile.
Comfort: 7/10
As an affordable car for everyday driving, the CX-30 performs well in terms of comfort – at least for the front seat passengers. Larger rear passengers may want more legroom and headroom, as this Mazda is inferior to its main competitor in both areas. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, with perforations to keep your back from sweating.
Practicality: 7/10
Like its class, the CX-30 can carry five passengers. However, squeezing three people in the back seat is sure to cause complaints. The small Mazda has also been criticized for its lack of cargo space in its class. The 572-liter volume behind its rear seats may be significantly smaller than that of illustrious models like the Kia Seltos, but on par with competitors like the Toyota Corolla Cross and Subaru Crosstrek. In addition, when the rear seats are folded down, there is 1,280 litres of space to transport more or larger items.
Value: 7.5/10
All CX-30s come with all-wheel drive, making even the entry-level GX model (which starts at $28,150) offer some value for money. Since then, the range has added many features and amenities, but also at a higher price point, but Mazda has done a great job of offering a range of competitive specs that should suit every need and budget.
With a luxurious interior that starts at just under $38,000, the GT is one of the most affordable and high-end models in its class. However, there are many competitors, and some of these models are more cost-effective and have more space.
verdict
Mazda has been known for building driver-oriented cars for years, and the CX-30 continues that tradition. It's a subcompact crossover for buyers who value driving dynamics and style more than absolute space and practicality. For many drivers who use this crossover as their daily commuter car, the 2024 Mazda CX-30 is well worth considering.