My Week with 2023 Mazda CX-30 on Everyman Driver

The Mazda CX-30 is the brand's smallest SUV. It's also one of its most popular models. In the very crowded and very popular subcompact SUV class, the CX-30 stands out because it's so pleasing to the eyes and from behind the wheel. Basically, the CX-30 looks great, and it's one of the best drives in its segment, with good power and fun handling. It's engaging to drive yet comfortable, and Turbo models are particularly quick. Fuel economy is average for the class. Another reason the Mazda is so popular is its upscale cabin. The Mazda is comfortable, with well-designed front seats that are firm and supportive. In the back, you'll find plenty of head- and legroom for adults of average height. The CX-30's interior isn't as roomy as some others, including the Buick Encore GX and Kia Seltos, but it competes well against some luxury SUVs, such as the Audi Q3, with high-quality materials and modern design.

For the 2023 model year, Mazda increases the CX-30's power and fuel economy. The horsepower of the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine in the S, Select, Preferred, Carbon Edition, and Premium trims bumps from 186 to 191. Official fuel economy ratings increase from 24 mpg for city driving and 31 mpg on the highway to 26/33 mpg city/highway. The power and fuel economy of the Mazda's available turbocharged 2.5-liter engine remain unchanged. The 2023 Mazda CX-30 is available in seven trim levels: S, Select, Preferred, Carbon Edition, Premium, Turbo Premium, and Turbo Premium Plus.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30's standard engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 191 horsepower (5 more than last year) and 186 pound-feet of torque. The CX-30's 2.5-liter turbo is good for 227 hp and 310 lb-ft (250 hp and 320 lb-ft when running on premium fuel). That hearty output is more than you'll find in the turbocharged engines in the Hyundai Kona or Kia Seltos. All CX-30 SUVs have all-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission.

While the turbo produces good horsepower, the excess torque is the bigger story. It delivers a quick shove at low engine revs, and there's no discernable wait for the turbo to kick in. The CX-30's six-speed automatic feels more responsive than the continuously variable automatic transmissions seen in pint-sized SUVs such as the Nissan Rogue Sport and the Subaru Crosstrek.

The CX-30 shares its platform with the nimble Mazda 3 sedan and hatchback. And, like them, it shows more than the usual enthusiasm for curves. The steering also is pleasantly weighted. The ride is somewhat firm but not uncomfortably so.

The CX-30's adaptive cruise control is standard but does not include lane-centering. The standard lane-keeping assist subtly nudges the wheel with no annoying beeping, so drivers are less likely to turn it off.

[bclamore]

Research shows that dial control is safer than the touchscreen, and everyone I know prefers the dial to the touchscreen. The dial is more expensive to implement too, so kudos to Mazda for bucking the touchscreen trend, listening to marketing, and doing what's safer.

[AmmaLove]

Just bought one a few days ago...IN LOVE. It's so easy and fun to drive, beautiful, comfortable seats, intuitive settings. I don't have the turbo but it's still enough for me, no problem in that department. My favorite car I've ever had. It feels good and looks good. Not too big, not too small. Love love love. I test drove the CX-5 and that's a great car too, but drives more like an SUV, not nearly as fun to drive.

[hamerplayer]

The wife has a 2022 Turbo Premium plus and loves it. 15k miles and trouble free. I love to drive it also it is fast, fun and very comfortable. I am 6 ft and can easily get a very comfortable driving position (better than my daughters 22 Rav4). The steering wheel and steering feel are also excellent.

[mattpranger]

Video is well done and good to see some of the room in this vehicle.

[majood]

This excellent vehicle for my daily driver. Thanks buddy ❤

[TommyG]

I have a new CX5 non turbo and it is amazing, averaging 30.7 everyday driving I'm 6.3 and did not fit well in the 30 but the CX5 is terrific.

[cmcd]

Thanks so much for your information, between this and another review you have me totally talked into buying one, but I’m gonna wait until fall and get a 2024 model, can’t wait!

[franciscoacosta]

Waiting for my CX-30 turbo 🥳. Great video

[andreatuckman]

I have the 2021 version and I love it. The only one who sits in the back seat is my dog however. It’s extremely comfortable, quiet and fun to drive.

[kiransharma]

I'll go for this one whenever it's the right time . Thanks!....👍

[bdifferentb]

We got the sport model and it's great. A tiny bit smaller than competitors but drives much better IMO. We also got that Quartz color. It's awesome.

[ryan]

Hilarious. I was just talking to the salesman . I went to YouTube and there you were with a new video on it. Lol

[edhcb]

Bought my daughter one of these for college and it’s been great!

[robertdesautels]

Just wondering how much you liked the CX30. Would have been surprised if you didn't but was curious. I don't have the turbo but very happy with mine. My next one will be turbo, have to keep moving up. My first one was a CX3 and so glad we moved up to a 2021 CX30. Seems very dependable and fun to drive. Enjoy.

[rozlincoln]

Purchased a 2021 turbo and love it. So smooth. Engine sounds great. It’s a fun little cruiser. Had a Ram 1500 and wanted something that was good on gas. Wasn’t expecting it being so fun to drive.

[vivianaleman]

Great video ready to buy one. Thanks for the info!

[jayteesgear]

Looked at the 23 CX5- beautiful interior but DATED chassis and the standard 2.5 had Zero power. I was very drawn to these - i need to go back and check it out

[kamrismcdole]

Purchased this car a month ago and I absolutely love it !!

[jeepinspence]

Dude that still photo of this video makes it look like you're doing a JAck Nicholson face! lol Nice. Thanks for the videos I enjoy them.

[matthewgarcia]

my only few minor complaints on mine are the terrible visibility with the small windows and the wind noise when on the highway. also the 12.7 gallon tank