2024 Mazda CX-30: A Fun-to-Drive Escape in a Stylish Package

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 carves out a niche in the crowded compact SUV market, prioritizing driving dynamics and a touch of luxury over outright cargo space.  While it may not be the most practical choice for expanding families, it shines for those seeking a stylish, engaging, and well-equipped everyday companion.

Punching Above Its Weight in Design

The CX-30 boasts a sleek and upscale design that stands out amongst its boxier competitors. Borrowing design cues from its Mazda3 sibling, the CX-30 features a sculpted exterior with a bold grille and sharp LED headlights. The flowing lines and available two-tone paint options create a sporty and sophisticated look.

Interior: Premium Feel with a Driver Focus

The cabin of the CX-30 punches above its weight in terms of perceived quality. High-quality materials and a minimalist design create a luxurious feel. The driver-centric layout, with easy-to-reach controls and a clear instrument cluster, reinforces the sporty character. The standard 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system offers a user-friendly interface with physical knobs for volume and tuning, a welcome respite from the touch-only interfaces becoming increasingly common. While rear seat legroom is sufficient for most adults, the CX-30 prioritizes driver and front passenger comfort over maximizing space for passengers in the back. Cargo capacity is also on the smaller side compared to some rivals, but it should be adequate for most daily errands and weekend getaways.

Thrilling Performance for a Compact SUV

The CX-30 comes standard with a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 191 horsepower. This engine provides peppy acceleration and a satisfying driving experience. A 250-horsepower turbocharged version of the same engine is available for those seeking even more zip. Both engines pair with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission.  The CX-30's real strength lies in its handling. Mazda is renowned for its driver-focused vehicles, and the CX-30 is no exception. Sharp steering, responsive suspension, and excellent body control make the CX-30 a joy to drive on winding roads. It delivers a level of engagement uncommon in the compact SUV segment.

Safety Features and Technology

The CX-30 comes standard with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.  Higher trims offer additional features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The aforementioned infotainment system, while lacking the fanciest features, is easy to use and integrates seamlessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Fuel Economy on Par for the Class

The naturally-aspirated engine achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 25 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged engine sacrifices a bit of fuel efficiency for more power, with ratings of 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. These figures fall squarely within the average range for compact SUVs.

Where the CX-30 Falls Short

While the CX-30 excels in terms of driving dynamics and interior design, it does have some drawbacks. As mentioned earlier, cargo space and rear seat legroom are a bit on the tight side compared to some competitors. Additionally, the base model lacks some desirable features that are standard on higher trims. Finally, the ride quality can be a bit firm on rough roads, a trade-off for the sharp handling.

Is the 2024 Mazda CX-30 Right for You?

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 is an ideal choice for drivers who prioritize a fun and engaging driving experience without sacrificing comfort and style.  It offers a luxurious interior, a suite of standard safety features, and good fuel economy.  However, if you need maximum cargo space or prioritize comfort for rear-seat passengers, there might be better options in the segment.

Here's a quick recap to help you decide:

Pros:

• Sleek and upscale design

• High-quality interior with a premium feel

• Engaging driving dynamics with sharp handling

• Standard suite of driver-assistance features

• User-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Cons:

• Limited cargo space and rear seat legroom compared to some rivals

• Base model lacks some desirable features

• Ride quality can be firm on rough roads

Overall, the 2024 Mazda CX-30 stands out as a driver-focused option in the compact SUV segment. It offers a compelling blend of style, performance, and technology, making it a great choice for those seeking a premium feel in a practical everyday vehicle.