What is a CX-30? The CX-30 is a subcompact SUV built in the Salamanca, Mexico assembly plant and sold in North America by Mazda. The CX-30 offers a blend of sporty performance, premium features and advanced technology. It’s known for its engaging driving dynamics, thanks to its 2.5 liter turbocharged engine and responsive handling. The Premium Plus trim adds luxury and convenience features, making it a well rounded choice in the subcompact SUV segment.
Some key features of the new 2025 CX-30 are:
Engine: The 2.5 liter turbocharged 4 cylinder gas engine has 227 horsepower and makes 250 HP on premium fuel, with 310 lb-ft of torque and 320 lb-ft on premium fuel.
Transmission: The CX-30 has a 6 speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode and steering wheel mounted paddle shifters.
All Wheel Drive: The 2025 Mazda CX-30 models come standard with i-Activ AWD. The i-Activ system is designed to automatically adapt to changing road conditions and deliver traction to the wheels that need it the most, enhancing handling and stability. This means that whether you choose the base CX-30 model or a higher trim, you will always have the benefit of all wheel drive for improved traction and control.
Exterior: The CX-30 has a sleek and sporty design, with black accents on the turbo models, including black roof rails, a black front grill and the black roof spoiler.
Interior: the CX-30 uses premium materials, has comfortable seating with a well designed cabin, and is available with leather upholstery and power heated seats.
Technology: The CX-30 has a 8.8″ inch center stack screen, and a 10.25″ inch screen in the Turbo models, plus wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiurisXM radio and a Bose 12 speaker premium audio system with navigation and over-the-air updates.
Safety: Has a 360 degree view monitor, traffic jam assist, reverse automatic emergency braking, Homelink and rear cross traffic braking.
Premium Plus Features: This top of the line trim adds a 360 degree surround view monitor, front and rear parking sensors and an auto dimming driver’s side mirror.
Competitors: The 2025 Mazda CX-30 competes with subcompact SUVs like the Kia Seltos, Hyundai Kona, Subaru Crosstrek, Buick Envista, Chevrolet Trax, VW Taos, Honda HR-V and Nissan Kicks. It’s a better buy than all of them starting at $24,995.
To showcase this 2025 SUV, Mazda sent me a CX-30 2.5 Turbo model to test drive and review. The base window sticker price for this Premium Plus edition is $36,950. The only option on the SUV is the stainless steel rear bumper guard for $135. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP), including the $1,420 delivery charge, is: $38,505.
After adding in the state and local sales tax, plus the DMV and dealer fees, the out the door and in your garage total purchase price is $43,318. At just $318 bucks over $43 Grand, you get a top tier subcompact SUV for near $5,500 less that the average transaction selling price of $48,800. And as they say, that’s a lot of bang for the buck.
Here’s a more detailed look at why it’s a really good buy in the subcompact SUV class.
Engaging Driving Dynamics: The CX-30 stands out for its sporty handling and responsive steering, making it more fun to drive than many rivals. The base engine is powerful for the class, and the turbocharged engine provides even quicker acceleration, with a 0 to 60 mph time of around 6.4 seconds.
Premium Interior: The CX-30 boasts a high quality interior with a design and materials that are often compared to more expensive vehicles. It includes features like a user friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and has available heated leather seats and a power liftgate.
Advanced Safety Features: Mazda includes a suite of i-Activsense safety items as standard, such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automated emergency braking. These features, combined with a strong 5 Star safety rating from the IIHS and NHTSA, offer peace of mind at every turn.
Value: The CX-30 offers a good balance of performance and price, making it a nice option for those seeking a subcompact SUV without breaking the bank, as the base price for the 2025 Mazda CX-30 starts at just under $25 Grand.
Size and Practicality: With a smaller footprint, it’s easier to maneuver in city traffic and park, while still offering enough space for daily needs and occasional trips. The rear seats are a bit tight for adults, but the rear cargo space is decent.
Overall the 2025 Mazda CX-30 offers a nice combination of driving enjoyment with a premium feel and practicality, making it a top contender in the subcompact SUV class.
So, call, click or visit your local Mazda dealer for a test drive, and a Bottom Line price review, on the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus SUV. And remember that the base price for a new CX-30 starts at only $24,995. Mazda – Move and Be Moved.
Be smart, stay safe, and just breathe. Remember, You Are What You Drive, and maybe, just for those reasons alone, you should Drive one, Buy one, Today. Have a great day, drive safely, and enjoy the ride, as the future looks nice and bright – Tony the Car Guy.
This Bottom Line new vehicle review is a Nut & Bolt and Dollars & Sense editorial provided by Tony Leopardo. Tony the Car Guy is an automotive writer, editor and publisher in the San Francisco Bay Area. If you have a question, or comment for Tony, send it to [email protected] and visit AutoWire.Net at www.autowire.net
