2024 Mazda CX-30 SUV

　　

2024 Mazda CX-30 Review

byDan FrioReviews Editor

　　Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to zzdcar, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.

　　, rating written byDan FrioAssociate Manager, Vehicle Testing and Operations

　　Rex Tokeshi-Torres has worked in the automotive industry for over 17 years. Rex is a vehicle testing technician and photographer at zzdcar and is responsible for coordinating vehicle testing and logistics, organizing data, and capturing photos for the site and social media. He has written over 100 vehicle-related articles and has rated, tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. He has also contributed content to Autobytel, Autotrader, Automobile, the Associated Press and DSport along with various motorsport teams. His affinity with cars started because of Hot Wheels and his love of modifying cars. He occasionally drives Subarus.

　　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. So far, the only changes announced for 2024 include a vaguely desert/safari-inspired Carbon Turbo edition with sand metallic paint, a tan interior and a turbo engine, so there's no compelling reason to wait for the new model. Stick with the base four-cylinder engine for the best value. The turbo option is zesty but 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 $3.06 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$131/mo  for CX-30 2.5 S

　　CX-30 2.5 S

　　2.5 S 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) - $24,995 MSRP2.5 S Select Sport 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) (Most Popular) - $26,500 MSRP2.5 S Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) - $28,790 MSRP2.5 S Carbon Edition 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) - $29,790 MSRP2.5 S Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A) - $31,990 MSRP2.5 Carbon Turbo 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) - $32,790 MSRP2.5 Turbo Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) - $34,990 MSRP2.5 Turbo Premium Plus 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) - $36,800 MSRP

　　vs

　　$167/mo

　　Avg. Compact SUV

　　

zzdcar spotlight: The CX-30's performance and 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. zzdcar 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.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Please note that this rating is based on a prior year and may change slightly once complete information about the 2024 CX-30 becomes available.

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar 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

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

8.0/10

　　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

8.0/10

　　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.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below