Mazda CX 30
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a small SUV that perfectly balances style and substance? The Mazda CX-30 might be exactly what you need. This compact crossover sits neatly between Mazda’s smaller CX-3 and larger CX-5, offering a sweet spot of practicality and premium appeal. It’s designed for drivers who want something more commanding than a hatchback but don’t need the bulk of a full-size SUV.

The CX-30 immediately catches your eye with Mazda’s striking KODO design language. Its sleek proportions and bold stance make it stand out in the crowded small SUV market, easily rivalling competitors like the Nissan Qashqai and Skoda Kamiq. Step inside and you’ll discover one of the most upscale interiors in its class, featuring premium materials and intuitive technology that feels borrowed from a much more expensive vehicle.

Behind the wheel, the CX-30 delivers a surprisingly engaging driving experience. The naturally aspirated engines provide smooth, linear power delivery, while the well-tuned chassis offers excellent handling without compromising comfort. It’s a crossover that doesn’t forget the importance of driver enjoyment. While it commands a slight premium over some rivals, the CX-30’s combination of style, quality, and driving dynamics makes every journey feel special.

What's the Mazda CX-30 Like to Drive?

The Mazda CX-30 takes a refreshingly honest approach to performance. The range kicks off with a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine producing 122 horsepower, which feels perfectly adequate for daily driving. It delivers smooth, predictable power that makes city commuting and country lane cruising equally enjoyable. For those wanting more punch, the 180 horsepower 2.5-litre engine provides stronger acceleration, reaching 60mph in around 8.5 seconds.

What really sets the CX-30 apart is its exceptional driving dynamics. This compact crossover feels more like a well-sorted hatchback than a typical SUV. The steering is precise and well-weighted, offering genuine feedback through corners. The suspension strikes an excellent balance, soaking up everyday bumps while maintaining composure when you’re enjoying a spirited drive. Road and wind noise are well-controlled, creating a refined cabin environment that makes longer journeys genuinely pleasant.

Inside the Mazda CX-30: Comfort & Features

Open the door and you’re greeted by one of the finest interiors in the small SUV class. The dashboard design is clean and elegant, featuring high-quality materials that rival those found in premium German competitors. Soft-touch surfaces dominate the cabin, while the rotary controller for the infotainment system operates with satisfying precision. The 8.8-inch display screen is crisp and responsive, though it lacks the touchscreen functionality some rivals offer.

The front seats are supportive and comfortable, with excellent adjustment range to suit drivers of all sizes. Even the rear seats offer reasonable space for adults, though taller passengers might find headroom slightly restricted due to the sloping roofline. The cabin ambience is genuinely premium, with excellent build quality throughout. Standard equipment includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while higher trim levels add luxuries like heated leather seats and a premium Bose sound system that transforms your daily commute.

The Mazda CX-30 succeeds brilliantly at being a premium small SUV that doesn’t compromise on driving enjoyment. Its combination of striking looks, exceptional interior quality, and engaging dynamics makes it stand out in a crowded market. The naturally aspirated engines provide smooth, reliable power, while the chassis delivers genuine driver satisfaction.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Mazda CX-30?

As a premium small SUV, the CX-30’s running costs reflect its upmarket positioning. Fuel economy is respectable, with real-world figures typically falling between 38-42 MPG depending on your driving style and engine choice. The naturally aspirated engines are generally reliable and don’t require premium fuel, helping to keep filling station visits affordable. Insurance groups are moderate for the class, ranging from groups 15-20.

The main consideration is the initial purchase price, which sits at the higher end of the small SUV segment. You’re paying for Mazda’s renowned build quality, premium interior materials, and excellent driving dynamics. Servicing costs are reasonable, and Mazda’s reputation for reliability means major repairs should be rare. The CX-30 holds its value well, making it an attractive proposition for those considering car finance options. While it may cost more upfront than mainstream rivals, the superior quality and driving experience help justify the premium.

Is the Mazda CX-30 Practical for Everyday Use?

For a compact SUV, the CX-30 offers solid everyday practicality. The 430-litre boot is a decent size for the class, easily accommodating a weekly shop or holiday luggage for two. The rear seats fold in a 60:40 split to expand cargo space when needed. Interior storage is thoughtfully designed, with plenty of cubbyholes and bottle holders throughout the cabin.

Where the CX-30 shows its limits is in outright space compared to more practical rivals. The sloping roofline that gives it such attractive proportions does eat into rear headroom and boot capacity. Families might find competitors like the Kia Sportage more accommodating for larger items. However, for couples or small families, the CX-30 provides ample space for daily life while being much easier to park and manoeuvre than larger SUVs. It’s perfectly suited to modern urban living while offering the versatility of used Mazda cars when weekend adventures call.

The Mazda CX-30 represents everything that’s good about modern Mazda design and engineering. It successfully combines striking KODO styling with exceptional interior quality and genuinely rewarding driving dynamics. The naturally aspirated engines provide smooth, reliable performance that suits the car’s refined character perfectly.

You choose the CX-30 because you want a small SUV that doesn’t feel like a compromise. Its premium interior, excellent handling, and distinctive looks make every journey more enjoyable. It’s ideally suited for urban professionals and small families who appreciate quality over quantity. While it may not be the most spacious or affordable option, the CX-30 delivers a premium ownership experience that makes the extra cost worthwhile, especially with flexible finance options for those considering cars under £10,000 in the used market.