Safety and Technology
The CX-30 is equipped with an extensive suite of safety features. Driver’s and front passenger’s knee airbags are standard. Both dual front airbags and front side-impact airbags are included, along with side-impact air curtains. The vehicle has smart brake support that aids in pedestrian detection. A driver attention alert system is in place. The vehicle also uses radar cruise control with a stop-and-go feature. There’s a lane departure warning system as well as lane-keep assist. The vehicle has a high-beam control system. Dynamic stability control and a traction control system enhance vehicle safety. An auto-hold function is included. A rear-view monitor aids in reversing. The vehicle is fitted with a tire pressure monitoring system. The CX-30 also provides LATCH rear child-seat anchors and upper tethers for child safety.
Generous Tech Features
On the tech front, the CX-30 offers a comprehensive suite of infotainment features for an immersive audio and tech experience. The vehicle comes with an 8-speaker audio system and provides Bluetooth functionality for hands-free phone and audio streaming. It’s equipped with an infotainment system that includes an 8.8-inch full-color display, voice command capabilities, HD radio, SMS text message integration, and automatic emergency notification. The car supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration. For added convenience, there are dual USB audio input ports and steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls. A trial of Mazda Connected Services is also included. Navigation, satellite radio, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system are available.
On the Road
Mazda lent us a well-equipped model outfitted with a turbocharged engine. From the onset, we knew that over-the-top performance was waiting. And we were not disappointed.
This version offers excellent acceleration and strong passing power. Peak torque kicks in early – at just 2,000 RPM. We prefer operating this SUV in normal mode as sport mode slows down gear shifts appreciably. The ideal, though, with this vehicle would be a stick shift, but in the absence of one the automatic shifts clean.
Mazda offers one of the best steering and handling combinations of any maker of small vehicles. Indeed, precise inputs and wonderful handling set this model apart from the pack. Braking is good with a soft touch initially, then tightening as speed progresses.
If you marvel that a crossover can perform so well, keep this in mind: the CX-30 is nearly identical to the Mazda3 in all its attributes. Indeed, the duo share a common platform. Thus, consider the CX-30 more akin to a raised hatchback than an SUV.
Mazda CX-30: Final Thoughts
We enjoyed our week with the CX-30, finding it perhaps the sportiest of all utility vehicles in its class. With all-wheel drive standard, the base model is very competitive. We think, though, that paying a few thousand dollars more for the Select trim is a great place to start. On the other hand, opting for the turbo pushes this model well above $30,000, a hard-to-swallow price point for not a few consumers.
Addendum: Competitive Set
The following are the primary competitors for the Mazda CX-30: Volkswagen Taos, Subaru Crosstrek, Chevrolet Trax, and Kia Seltos. Also, the Dodge Hornet, Hyundai Tucson, Toyota Corolla Cross, Nissan Kicks, and the Honda HR-V compete.
