2024 Mazda CX-30

Pros: Best-in-class to drive; best-in-class interior quality; best-in-class turbo power; standard all-wheel drive; strong safety ratings Cons: Worst-in-class passenger space; cargo space isn't much better; average fuel economy from base engine; expensive relative to mainstream competitors; compromised infotainment system Not everybody needs a big, family-ready SUV. That could be why the subcompact SUV class gained popularity, as they combine the sensible size of a sedan with the added utility and height of an SUV. Among these pint-sized utes, the 2024 Mazda CX-30 remains a favorite, if not one we'd recommend to everyone. As is the case with other Mazda vehicles, the CX-30 distinguishes itself from the rest with sleek styling, an interior that can easily be mistaken for an entry-level luxury car and more lively performance than rivals. In fact, those attributes make it a genuine alternative to luxury models like the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA, especially the Turbo trim levels. The trouble is, the non-luxury subcompact segment has expanded and evolved substantially since the CX-30 was first introduced. Choices like the Chevrolet Trax, Buick Envista, Kia Seltos and Volkswagen Taos are similarly well-suited to those with less substantial space needs than the "compact" size above provides, but they also provide a lot more space and versatility than the rather cramped CX-30. Even if they aren't family oriented, they could be a viable family vehicle, opening the door to a lot more buyers. The CX-30? No way. There's also the matter of subpar fuel economy from its base engine, the drawback for its better-than-average performance. The interior is also a bit behind the times, with unimpressive storage and some missing features. At least Mazda finally (sort of) allows the infotainment system to be controlled via touchscreen when using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but then only those functions, and only with the range-topping Turbo trim levels. That exclusivity is quite frankly nonsensical. We don't hate controlling everything else with the old-school knob-and-screen setup as it keeps your eyes on the road, but we're probably in the minority there, and even we recognize that Apple/Android control is best done with a touchscreen. In the end, we still really like the CX-30 as we're in the niche of people who'd happily prioritize getting a small SUV that looks great and drives even better. That's admittedly a small niche, though. For the average shopper, there are more rounded choices available.   Interior & Technology   |   Passenger & Cargo Space   |   Performance & Fuel Economy What it's like to drive   |   Pricing & Trim Levels   |   Crash Ratings & Safety Features What's new for 2024? A new Carbon Turbo trim has been added, making it the least expensive model to have the more powerful engine. These turbo models come with a larger 10.25-inch infotainment display that now has touchscreen functionality, but only when using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. USB-C ports have also been swapped in to replace the old USB-As. Last year's blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert are now standard …
Hide Full Review