2023 Mazda CX-30 review

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The 2023 Mazda CX-30 is one of the most attractive and engaging small SUVs on the market. It combines a sleek design, a premium cabin, and a powerful optional turbocharged engine to deliver a satisfying driving experience. In this blog post, we will review the main features, pros and cons, and pricing of the 2023 Mazda CX-30.

Features

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 comes in four trim levels: 2.5 S, Select, Preferred, and Premium. All models are equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 191 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The Premium trim offers an optional 2.5-liter turbocharged engine that boosts the output to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque.

The base 2.5 S trim comes with standard features such as LED headlights and taillights, 16-inch alloy wheels, an 8.8-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, an eight-speaker sound system, a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.

The Select trim adds 18-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, simulated leather upholstery, and rear privacy glass.

The Preferred trim further adds a power-adjustable driver's seat with memory settings, heated front seats, a 12-speaker Bose sound system, satellite radio, and a sunroof.

The Premium trim tops off the list with leather upholstery, a power liftgate, a head-up display, adaptive headlights, roof rails, paddle shifters, cylinder deactivation technology (for improved fuel economy), and a rearview mirror with an integrated camera display.

Pros and Cons

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 has many strengths that make it stand out from its rivals. Some of the pros are:

- Fun-to-drive nature: The CX-30 handles well on twisty roads, thanks to its precise steering, responsive brakes, and agile chassis. The optional turbocharged engine provides strong acceleration and passing power.

- Upscale interior: The CX-30's cabin is well-built and stylish, with high-quality materials and a minimalist design. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and the controls are easy to use.

- Advanced safety features: The CX-30 comes with a generous array of standard driver assistance features that can help prevent or mitigate collisions. The head-up display and rearview camera mirror are also useful additions.

- Desirable tech features: The CX-30 offers a large infotainment screen with crisp graphics and intuitive menus. The Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration allows seamless smartphone connectivity. The Bose sound system delivers rich and clear sound.

However, the CX-30 also has some drawbacks that may deter some buyers. Some of the cons are:

- Base engine is rather sluggish: The standard 2.5-liter engine is adequate for most driving situations, but it lacks the punch and refinement of some competitors' engines. The transmission can also be slow to downshift when more power is needed.

- Not much more practical than a hatchback: The CX-30's cargo space is limited compared to other small SUVs, with only 20.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 45.2 cubic feet with them folded. The rear seat legroom is also tight for taller passengers.

- Some drivers may not appreciate the firm ride: The CX-30's sporty suspension tuning results in a firm ride quality that may feel harsh on rough roads or over bumps. Some rivals offer more cushioning and comfort.

Pricing

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 starts at $24,325 for the base 2.5 S trim and goes up to $35,400 for the Premium trim with the turbocharged engine option. These prices are competitive with similarly equipped versions of other small SUVs such as the Hyundai Kona ($23,475-$32,275), Volkswagen Taos ($25,450-$34,045), Subaru Crosstrek ($26,290-$37,045), Buick Encore GX ($26,095-$33,495), Audi Q3 ($36,995-$44,945), and BMW X1 ($37,195-$39,195).

Verdict