2023 Mazda CX-30

History/Overview

In 2020, Mazda introduced the CX-30 subcompact crossover model, which later replaced the tiny CX-3 as the brand’s entry-grade utility vehicle. Based on the same platform as the Mazda3 compact car, the CX-30 rides a little higher to create more ground clearance.

What’s New/Key Changes From Last Year

For 2023, Mazda has tweaked the CX-30’s mid-grade 2.5L engine for a few more horsepower and a slight improvement in fuel economy that makes it more efficient than the car’s base 2.0L engine. Also new are standard rear side airbags and rear seatbelt tensioners.

Available Trims

Mazda offers the CX-30 in GX, GS and GT trim levels. Rare for the subcompact crossover segment, the CX-30 can be had with three different engines: GX uses a 2.0L four-cylinder, GS upgrades to a 2.5L, and GT can be optioned with a turbocharged 2.5L. All-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission are standard.

Standard Features

GX trim comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, auto on/off LED headlights/taillights, and rain-sensing wipers. Inside, there’s an 8.8-inch touchscreen, eight-speaker audio, manual A/C, and heated front seats. The standard safety package is limited to blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

GS gains 18-inch wheels, automatic high beams, heated side mirrors, automatic dual-zone A/C, heated steering wheel, and a digital gauge display. GS’s safety additions are forward collision mitigation, radar cruise control, pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, and driver attention alert.

GT sticks with 18-inch wheels but paints them gunmetal coloured. It also adds a sunroof, adaptive/auto-levelling headlights, an auto-dimming driver’s side mirror, a front wiper de-icer, a power tailgate, navigation, and passive keyless entry. Inside, GT gains a head-up display, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with integrated garage remote, leather upholstery, and a power driver’s seat. GT’s safety extras are front/rear parking sensors, rear automatic braking, traffic sign recognition, surround-view cameras, and traffic jam assist.

Key Options

GS trim can be optioned with a luxury package of reverse-tilt-down side mirrors, an auto-dimming interior mirror, a sunroof, leatherette upholstery, and a power driver’s seat with memory.

Fuel Economy

Mazda’s fuel consumption estimates are 9.4/7.7 L/100 km (city/highway) with the 2.0L engine; 9.0/7.1 L/100 km with the 2.5L; and 10.5/7.9 L/100 km for turbo 2.5L engines.

Competition

With the CX-30, Mazda competes with the Honda HR-V, Kia Seltos, Chevrolet Trailblazer, Buick Encore GX, Hyundai Kona, Volkswagen Taos, Toyota Corolla Cross, Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, Subaru Crosstrek, and Nissan Qashqai.