2024 Mazda CX-30
Starting at $26.415
HIGHSSport-tuned chassis, posh interior, a generous number of standard features.
LOWSPoky with the entry-level engine, only just as practical as the less expensive Mazda 3 hatchback, stiff ride.
VERDICTThe CX-30 offers drivers a lot to get excited about, but if you need to maximize space for people and cargo, look elsewhere.
Overview
Driving verve ranks high on our list of priorities and the 2024 Mazda CX-30 is a small SUV that easily satisfies our desire for fun-to-drive transportation. The CX-30 is based on the Mazda 3 compact car, which explains its athleticism and its class-above cabin furnishings-both of which set it apart from rivals such as the Subaru Crosstrek and the Volkswagen Taos. With the entry-level 2.5-liter four-cylinder, the CX-30 can feel a bit sluggish, but if you're so inclined, Mazda offers a more powerful-and more expensive-250-hp turbocharged version. All-wheel drive is standard with either engine; both come with a six-speed automatic transmission. The higher-end trims offer near-luxury accommodations inside, which make the CX-30 a more luxurious option in the subcompact crossover segment. You could even consider it as a cheaper alternative to premium-branded models such as the Audi Q3 or the BMW X1-that kind of value makes it a shoo-in for our 2024 Editors' Choice awards.
What's New for 2024?
A Carbon Turbo trim joins the lineup for 2024 and wears a cool Zircon Sand paint job, black-painted wheels, and Terracotta-colored leather upholstery. As the name suggests, the Carbon Turbo comes only with the optional 250-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. Elsewhere, the Select trim morphs into the Select Sport for 2024 and comes with fancier 18-inch wheels with a black metallic finish, black side-mirror caps, black faux-leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped shifter and steering wheel, and dual-zone automatic climate control. A new Ceramic Metallic color is exclusive to the Select Sport trim. A larger 10.3-inch infotainment display is now available, but you'll have to spring for one of the more expensive Turbo models to get it.
The price of the 2024 Mazda CX-30 starts at $26.415 and goes up to $38.220 depending on the trim and options.
Base $26,415
Select Sport $27,920
Preferred $30,210
2.5 S Carbon Edition $31,210
Premium $33,410
Carbon Turbo $34,210
Turbo Premium $36,410
Turbo Premium Plus $38,220
While that optional 256-hp turbocharged engine is alluring, it unfortunately only comes on the most expensive trims. We think most people will find the standard engine fine, so we'd recommend that those buyers stick with that powertrain and select the Preferred trim. The Preferred trim includes an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat with memory settings, a power sunroof, silver-painted 18-inch wheels, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and keyless entry. All nonturbo trim levels come with the same 191-hp 2.5-liter engine, and all-wheel drive is standard across the lineup.