Mazda CX-30 review – a fun-to-drive and classy small SUV

Verdict – is the Mazda CX-30 a good car?

Mazda has taken a different approach with the CX-30 by offering larger engines compared to its rivals. The latest 2.5-litre model is a welcome addition because it offers more grunt than the discontinued 2.0-litre model, and the CX-30 feels more special than lots of rivals thanks to a fun driving feel, but practicality and efficiency aren’t as good as some rivals. Still, an upmarket cabin and attractive pricing make it a very compelling package.

Mazda CX-30 models, specs and alternatives

The Mazda CX-30 is a compact petrol-powered SUV that’s currently the smallest in the Japanese brand’s line-up since the CX-3 was discontinued. Based on the Mazda3 hatchback, the CX-30 could appeal to you if you like the idea of slightly improved practicality and raised ride height to help tackle the UK’s pothole-filled roads.

The CX-30 isn’t short of rivals, though, because the small-SUV market is absolutely booming at the moment, so it’s up against cars like the Ford Puma, Toyota C-HR, Volkswagen T-Roc, Peugeot 2008 to name just a few. Mazda’s upmarket looks mean the CX-30 could also tread on the toes of more expensive premium models like the Cupra Formentor, Volvo XC40 or BMW X1.

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We put the Mazda CX-30 up against the long-standing Suzuki Vitara in a twin test in February 2025 – the CX-30 came out on top thanks to its fun-to-drive feel, more attractive pricing and generous kit list compared with the ageing Vitara.

Though the CX-30 itself has been around since 2019, we have to commend the styling, because it borrows many of the handsome lines from its Mazda3 sibling – albeit with chunky side cladding and a higher roofline for a more substantial feel – and we think it’s aged considerably well, especially considering it’s not yet undergone a facelift.

The car is an easy one to get in and out of because of the raised body, and the interior impresses with its style and quality. Shared almost entirely with the low-slung hatch, the use of soft-touch materials, metal and even some wood is carefully considered and attractive. A spot-on driving position and contoured steering wheel ensures the CX-30 feels sporty too.

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The CX-30 shares its engine line-up with that of the Mazda3 hatchback, and as per Mazda’s mantra of continuing to offer ‘right-sized’ engines, they’re larger than you’ll find in the CX-30’s rivals. The range starts with a 2.5-litre unit with 138bhp, while a smaller, yet more powerful and more efficient 184bhp 2.0-litre SkyActiv-X unit sits above this. Most models are front-wheel drive, though top-spec cars can also be had with all-wheel drive for added grip.

Mazda is a brand known for its great handling, thanks to the iconic MX-5 sports car, and a bit of that pedigree has been injected into the CX-30, too. While it may be an SUV, the CX-30 feels very car-like to drive in comparison to rivals, thanks to a lower driving position, and its steering and controls feel well weighted.

The Mazda CX-30 sits firmly at the stylish end of the spectrum, with plenty of room up front but tight rear legroom and a 421-litre boot that's easily bettered by models such as the Renault Captur and the Skoda Karoq, the latter of which is a bigger but similarly priced model. Think of it as a high-riding hatch rather than a traditional SUV and you won't be disappointed. Mind you, buyers upgrading from the now-discontinued Mazda CX-3 will think the CX-30 is palatial in comparison.

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