2.5 S Carbon Edition 4dr i-ACTIV All-Wheel Drive Sport Utility
2022 Mazda CX-30

The gap between subcompact and compact SUVs originally didn't seem like one that needed filling. Yet, whattya know? The growing number of midcompact SUVs, as we've started calling them, are actually some of the most interesting, diverse and appealing small SUVs on the market. The 2022 Mazda CX-30 is one of the best and plays the role of the handsome, well-dressed athlete in the segment. It's the best to drive and has the most stylish, high-quality interior; two attributes that actually make the CX-30 an alternative for various subcompact luxury models like the BMW X2 and Audi Q3. Seriously, it's that good. Of course, there are tradeoffs that might make one of its midcompact competitors more appealing. Yes, it's taller than the mechanically related Mazda3 Hatchback and has some unsightly quasi-rugged fender flares, but if you're likely to venture off the beaten path, the Ford Bronco Sport and Subaru Crosstrek are better bets. Also, that slinky styling does mean it doesn't offer as much passenger or cargo space – a Kia Seltos or VW Taos would be better bets there. But that's the beauty of this growing segment: there's a little something for every taste rather than a collection of blah cookie-cutter choices. Interior & Technology   |   Passenger & Cargo Space   |   Performance & Fuel Economy What it's like to drive   |   Pricing & Features   |   Crash Ratings & Safety Features What's new for 2022? Every CX-30 now comes standard with all-wheel drive. A new Carbon Edition also debuts.  Only available with the base engine, it is effectively a Preferred trim level that's only available in Polymetal Gray paint and exclusive red leather interior. As the name implies, it has black wheels and gloss-black mirrors.  What are the CX-30 interior and in-car technology like? Like the Mazda3 with which it shares so much, the CX-30's cabin makes you go "wow" considering its price and the vehicles with which it competes. Whatever trim level you're considering, the key to this wow factor is how Mazda's current interior design scheme removes visual clutter by reducing switchgear and effectively hiding air vents and door handles. It's then augmented by standard multi-tone color schemes – cars with cloth or leatherette vinyl upholstery are accented with black and blue dash/door trim, while those with leather get black and brown. The new Carbon Edition is red and black. For a car in the $20,000-$35,000 range, it looks and feels special. It's also of a high quality and quite functional. The steering wheel, which looks sensational, is an absolute treat to hold and has intelligently designed buttons/switches for the infotainment and cruise controls. There's considerable center console space, including a configurable under-armrest bin, and a decently sized forward bin for a smartphone. Mazda's tech interface, which had been a liability in Mazdas, is substantially more advanced in the CX-30. The dashtop screen is large and easy to see. The knob that controls it is big, ergonomically placed on the center console, and like BMW's iDrive controller, can rotate through …
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