The 2024 Mazda CX-30 stands out in the crowded subcompact SUV segment by offering something many rivals lack — premium design, engaging driving dynamics, and upscale interior quality without the luxury-brand price tag. Positioned between the Mazda3 hatchback and the larger CX-5, the CX-30 is designed for drivers who want comfort, technology, and performance in a compact yet stylish package.
Exterior Design: Elegant and Athletic
Mazda’s signature Kodo design philosophy gives the 2024 CX-30 a sleek and modern appearance. Smooth body lines, sculpted curves, and a confident stance make it look more expensive than most competitors in its class.
Key exterior highlights include:
-
LED headlights and taillights (standard)
-
Bold front grille with chrome accents
-
18-inch alloy wheels on higher trims
-
Optional Black and Carbon Edition styling elements
-
Available power moonroof
The CX-30’s compact size makes it ideal for city driving while still offering SUV-like presence and road visibility.
Engine Options & Performance
Mazda offers two powerful engine choices for the 2024 CX-30, both paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and standard i-Activ all-wheel drive.
2.5-Liter Naturally Aspirated Engine
-
Power: 191 horsepower
-
Torque: 186 lb-ft
-
Smooth, responsive, and fuel-efficient
-
Ideal for daily commuting and long drives
2.5-Liter Turbocharged Engine
-
Power: Up to 250 horsepower
-
Torque: Up to 320 lb-ft
-
Quick acceleration and strong passing power
-
One of the most powerful engines in its segment
The turbo models offer sports-car-like performance, making the CX-30 one of the fastest subcompact SUVs available.
Fuel Economy of CX-30
Despite standard AWD, the CX-30 delivers competitive fuel efficiency:
-
Non-Turbo:
26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway / 29 mpg combined -
Turbo:
22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 25 mpg combined
This balance of performance and efficiency is one of the CX-30’s strongest selling points.
Interior: Upscale and Driver-Focused
The interior of the 2024 Mazda CX-30 feels closer to a luxury vehicle than a mainstream SUV. Mazda uses high-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and a minimalist design that prioritizes the driver.
Interior features include:
-
8.8-inch infotainment display (10.25-inch on turbo trims)
-
Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
-
Leather or leatherette upholstery on higher trims
-
Heated front seats and power-adjustable driver seat
-
Dual-zone automatic climate control
-
Available Bose 12-speaker premium audio system
-
Head-Up Display on top trims
Front seats are exceptionally comfortable, while rear seating is best suited for children or occasional adult passengers.
Cargo Space & Practicality
While the CX-30 focuses more on style and performance, it still offers practical cargo capacity:
-
20.2 cubic feet behind rear seats
-
45.2 cubic feet with seats folded
The cargo area is well-designed and functional for daily errands, small luggage, and weekend trips.
Technology & Safety Features
Mazda equips the 2024 CX-30 with an impressive list of standard safety technologies, even on base trims.
Standard & available safety features:
-
Adaptive cruise control
-
Automatic emergency braking
-
Lane-keeping assist
-
Blind-spot monitoring
-
Rear cross-traffic alert
-
Driver attention alert
-
360-degree camera (higher trims)
The CX-30 has earned excellent crash-test ratings, making it one of the safest vehicles in its class.
Driving Experience
The CX-30 is widely praised for its precise steering and confident handling. Unlike many competitors that feel soft or dull, the CX-30 drives more like a sporty hatchback.
-
Steering is sharp and responsive
-
Minimal body roll in corners
-
Firm but controlled suspension
-
Turbo trims offer thrilling acceleration
This makes the CX-30 an excellent choice for drivers who actually enjoy being behind the wheel.
Trim Levels of CX-30
The 2024 Mazda CX-30 is offered in multiple trims, including:
-
2.5 S
-
2.5 S Select Sport
-
2.5 S Preferred
-
Carbon Edition
-
2.5 S Premium
-
Turbo
-
Turbo Premium
-
Turbo Premium Plus
Best Picks:
-
Best Value: 2.5 S Preferred
-
Best Style: Carbon Edition
-
Best Performance: Turbo Premium Plus
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Premium interior quality
- Powerful turbo engine option
- Standard all-wheel drive
- Excellent safety features
- Fun-to-drive handling
Cons
- Limited rear seat space
- Cargo space smaller than rivals
- Infotainment is not a touchscreen while driving
Final Verdict
The 2024 Mazda CX-30 is an excellent choice for buyers who want a stylish, sporty, and refined subcompact SUV. It prioritizes driving enjoyment and interior quality over maximum space, making it perfect for urban drivers, small families, or anyone upgrading from a sedan.
If you value performance, premium design, and reliability, the CX-30 easily ranks among the best subcompact SUVs of 2024.