[AUTO] 2025 Mazda CX-30

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Mazda is aiming to become an entry-level luxury brand, and the 2025 CX-30 has shown that goal is within reach. Among subcompact crossovers, its upscale styling and interior quality are hard to beat. Thankfully, this luxury-adjacent direction doesn't come at the expense of one of Mazda's best attributes: sporty driving dynamics. The CX-30 is easily one of the most entertaining choices in its class, though for the full performance potential you'll want to upgrade to the more powerful turbocharged engine. It is held back by a comparably small cargo capacity, so for utility-minded shoppers, the Volkswagen Taos and Chevrolet Trailblazer provide more space. In the top trim, the CX-30 is a more affordable alternative to the BMW X1, Audi Q3, or Mercedes-Benz GLA. As one of our favorites in its segment, the Mazda CX-30 has also earned a spot on our Editors' Choice list for 2025.

While that optional 250-hp turbocharged engine is alluring, it unfortunately only comes on the most expensive trims. We think most people will find the standard engine fine, so we'd recommend that those buyers stick with that powertrain and select the Preferred trim. The Preferred trim includes an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat with memory settings, a power sunroof, silver-painted 18-inch wheels, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and keyless entry. All nonturbo trim levels come with the same 191-hp 2.5-liter engine, and all-wheel drive is standard across the lineup.

The CX-30's standard engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 191 horsepower. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic which chooses gears wisely based on driving conditions. A turbocharged 2.5-liter engine is optional and provides 250 horsepower. If you're a fan of the Mazda 3 hatchback, which we are, you'll find the CX-30 just as nimble, athletic, and fun to drive. Its crisp steering and fluid body movements make it a pleasure to pilot on a twisty road and provide a sense of stability when cruising.

Link: https://www.caranddriver.com/mazda/cx-30