You might be familiar with the crossovers from Mazda — the CX-3 and CX-5 —as both are popular and fun-to-drive crossovers. But Mazda is banking on a new crossover, the CX-30, that fits between the current tiny and compact offerings.
This new crossover offers some extra space compared with the sub-compact CX-3. Still, it’s small enough to fit in some of those tighter parking spaces that most bigger crossovers have to claim.
While most of the smaller crossovers come with fine if not generic interiors, the Mazda CX-30 raises the bar with a more premium looking place to pass the miles.
The leather covered seats are comfortable, but the light colored materials might be a chore to keep clean, especially if you have young children.
I find the CX-30 an engaging small crossover to drive. It has above average handling prowess when compared to most other smaller crossovers.
It seems to handle most bumps without much hassle, easily soaking up all but the worse area of pavement. The base four-cylinder engine will keep most drivers happy with adequate power in most situations.
Cost: $29,600; as tested $31,670
MPG: 25 mpg city and 32mpg highway; I managed 26.7 mpg in 226 miles of mixed driving.
Safety: Smart brake support; lane departure warning system; lane-keep assist; Mazda radar cruise control with stop and go; high beam control; driver attention alert; blind spot monitoring system with rear cross traffic alert; adaptive front lighting system
Options: $450 Navigation system; $300 Machine Gray Metallic; $275 frameless auto-dim mirror
Things to know: The 2020 Mazda CX-30 slots between the smaller CX-3 and larger CX-5. It impresses with upscale interior and an engaging driving experience
Pros:
- Comes very well equipped with an upscale interior and technology for reasonable price
- New in-between size crossover might be right fit for more buyers
- Comfortable ride; handles well on back roads
Cons:
- Transmission seemed a bit slow to react at times
- Vision out the rear is limited due to the stylish exterior
- Fuel economy could be better
