2023 Mazda CX-30 Review

Name: 2023 Mazda CX-30
Brand: Mazda

Price Range: $19,499 - $31,800

Mazda CX-30 Carbon Edition 4dr SUV Exterior

The 2023 CX-30 is a sophisticated and sporty entry in the extra-small SUV class. It has striking looks and plenty of standard features. Though it's priced higher than much of its competition, it offers a lot for your money. It's comfortable on the road and gives you a decent amount of storage too.

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Price & Payment

681 cars

$24,505 avg. price

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2023 Mazda CX-30 Review

Pros

Upscale interior design and build quality
Advanced safety features come standard
Poised handling and refined ride quality
Powerful optional turbocharged engine

Cons

Transmission can be slow to downshift
Significant rear blind spots

What's new

Base engine makes a bit more power and gets slightly better fuel economy
2.5 Turbo trim has been discontinued
Part of the first CX-30 generation introduced for 2020

Overview

Written by automotive expert Michael Cantu

2/9/2023

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 is an extra-small crossover SUV and one of the best-driving and most premium vehicles in its class. Introduced in 2020 to slot between the diminutive Mazda CX-3 and the larger CX-5 and CX-50, the CX-30 drives and feels more like a hatchback than an SUV. That's because it shares much underneath the sheetmetal and from behind the wheel with the Mazda 3, one of Edmunds' favorite compacts. The CX-30 is entertaining to drive thanks to its athletic handling and available turbocharged engine. It also sports an upscale interior design that's not found in most rivals.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

For sale near San Antonio, TX

681 listings

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2023 Mazda CX-30
Select 4dr SUV
$20,297
great price
- 44,984 miles
- No accidents, 2 owners, personal use only
- 5 Seats, 26 City / 33 Hwy MPG
- EchoPark Automotive Houston (North Freeway) (192 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Keyless Entry/Start
Close
Located in Houston, TX
At EchoPark, it’s all about offering you options for a happy experience. We have thousands of new-to-you makes and models that range from sedans to tr...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
29 Combined MPG (26 City/33 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 3MVDMBBM2PM525794
Stock: YPM525794
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 08-08-2025
2023 Mazda CX-30
Preferred 4dr SUV
$22,597
great price
- 18,675 miles
- No accidents, 1 owner, personal use only
- 5 Seats, 26 City / 33 Hwy MPG
- EchoPark Automotive Houston (Southwest Freeway) (181 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Keyless Entry/Start
Close
Located in Stafford, TX
At EchoPark, it’s all about offering you options for a happy experience. We have thousands of new-to-you makes and models that range from sedans to tr...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
29 Combined MPG (26 City/33 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 3MVDMBCM2PM500442
Stock: CPM500442
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 08-21-2025

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For 2023, Mazda has made a few tweaks to the CX-30. Most notably, the base 2.5-liter engine now gets better fuel economy, with the EPA's combined driving estimate rising a significant 3 mpg compared to last year. The engine also makes 5 more horsepower. You're unlikely to notice the power boost, but the improved fuel economy largely addresses our previous concern with the CX-30's subpar fuel economy. The CX-30's turbocharged engine is still available but Mazda has discontinued the previous entry-level 2.5 Turbo trim, leaving the pricey 2.5 Turbo Premium and Premium Plus trims as the only way to get it.

Still, we're fond of the CX-30 and find it to be a smart pick for a small crossover alongside the Buick Encore GX, Hyundai Kona, Subaru Crosstrek and Volkswagen Taos. Check out our test team's Expert Rating below to read our test team's full report on the 2023 CX-30.

What's it like to live with?

Initial short-term reviews don't always tell the whole story. Fortunately, Edmunds tested a 2020 Mazda CX-30 Premium for a year and more than 17,000 miles. It confirmed our positive initial impressions and proved to be a very enjoyable SUV to drive around. Check out the whole story to learn more about the CX-30's real-world fuel economy, maintenance costs and more.

Edmunds Expert Rating

edmunds TESTED

Driven, tested, rated by automotive expert Rex Tokeshi-Torres

Good

7.9

out of 10

We drove the 2023 Mazda CX-30 on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.

Performance

8/10

How does the CX-30 drive? The CX-30 is easy and engaging to drive. The base engine provides better-than-average power for this class. Our test CX-30 needed 9 seconds to reach 60 mph, where rivals take more than 10 seconds. Of course, you can always go with the turbocharged engine if you have the need for speed. The 0-60 mph time is just 6.4 seconds, making the CX-30 Turbo the quickest car in its class. (It even beats a Volkswagen Golf GTI.) The steering is sharp and gives you a good feel for the road. It complements the CX-30's excellent handling as it hugs corners and feels composed and at home on twisty roads.

The transmission, left in its default mode, likes to upshift early to help maximize fuel economy. The transmission takes a beat to kick down if you're trying to pass at freeway speeds. Using the Sport mode helps liven up the CX-30's character.

Comfort

8/10

How comfortable is the CX-30? For a sporty SUV, the CX-30 is really quite comfortable. The front seats are supportive and comfortable enough for long drives. The rear seats are nicely padded and offer a good seating position that's not too upright. The suspension has a sporty tautness to it, but it's still adept at absorbing bumps and impacts.

Freeway cruising is especially nice. The CX-30 has one of the quieter cabins in the class, which lends it an upscale feel. The dual-zone climate control is a little weak for those who like it really cold, but the rear vents ensure rear passengers get their share. The heated seats take time to warm up but are nicely toasty once they are.

Interior

7.5/10

How’s the interior? The CX-30's interior is simple but classy. The controls are easy to see and understand. The infotainment system is laid out well, and navigating with the rotary knob is mostly easy. The exceptions are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which would undoubtedly be more convenient to operate if the CX-30 had a touchscreen.

For an extra-small SUV, the CX-30's cabin is pretty roomy. In front, individuals 6 feet tall and under should have ample space in all directions. Though the CX-30 will accommodate five total, rear seat comfort is really optimized for two average-size adults.

The CX-30's swoopier shape involves some trade-offs. It isn't as easy to climb in and out of as its boxier rivals, and rear visibility is a bit compromised by a thick rear pillar and relatively small window.

Technology

8/10

How’s the tech? The CX-30 comes standard with a good amount of tech. The advanced safety and driver aids are among the best in class in the way they operate. You even get a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot, though you'll have to pay for service after the trial ends. Our test CX-30 had two USBs and two 12-volt power ports up front.

The upgraded Bose audio system delivers a nice, clear sound with good bass. The navigation system is easy to use, and the 8.8-inch infotainment display is a really bright and sharp screen. Using the rotary dial is easy enough but having a touchscreen would be welcome. In previous Mazdas, the display granted touchscreen capability if you were stopped, but that's no longer the case for this latest infotainment system that's in the CX-30.

Storage

7.5/10

How’s the storage? The CX-30 is middling in terms of storage compared to the class leaders. Cargo room behind the rear seats is decent, but the depth of the space from the hatch to the back of the rear seats seems shallow. A wide and tall hatch opening provides good access for loading. But because the rear seatbacks don't lie flush with the cargo floor when folded, it won't be as easy as it could be to slide in long, heavy items.

Storage for small items is a bit better. The sizable cubby in front of the gearshift, center armrest bin and glove compartment are mostly usable. The door pockets and cupholders are small but that's because it's a small vehicle. If you have young kids, installation access for car seats is great, but actual space for a larger rear-facing seat will be tight.

Fuel Economy

7.5/10

How’s the fuel economy? The CX-30 gets an EPA-estimated 29 mpg combined with the base engine, which is similar to what rival SUVs with all-wheel drive achieve. Mazda also offers a turbocharged engine that gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg. That's underwhelming but perhaps understandable given the boost in power. In general, our testing of the CX-30 has shown that the EPA's estimates are achievable in real-world driving.

Value

7.5/10

Is the CX-30 a good value? Mazda's pricing for the CX-30's base engine trims is competitive for the class and you get a pleasing amount of tech and convenience features for your money. There's less value to be had from the 2.5 Turbo trims as they are considerably more expensive. A CX-30 Turbo is hard to justify unless you've got a true need for speed.

On the upside, the CX-30's interior is roomy, and build quality is excellent with the interior adorned with soft-touch surfaces, leather and nicely placed chrome trim. The piano-black door handles creak a little at times and can leave smudges, but no one's going to notice there. Warranty and ownership costs are standard for the class.

Wildcard

8.5/10

The Mazda CX-30 is sophisticated, athletic and attractive inside and out. Just like the smaller Mazda CX-3, it handles curvy roads with precision and instills confidence as you continue to drive it, but it has the benefit of more interior space and comfort. All in all, it's a well-rounded vehicle.

2023 Mazda CX-30 trim level differences

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 is an extra-small SUV with seating for five. It's available in 2.5 S, Select, Preferred, Carbon Edition, Premium, 2.5 Turbo Premium and 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus trim levels. Feature highlights include:

Which CX-30 trim does Edmunds recommend?

We recommend the Select trim. It keeps the price in check and includes all of the features from the base trim and adds upgrades such as simulated leather upholstery, keyless entry and blind-spot warning. If you want the turbocharged engine, you'll have to pay significantly more, but the extra power will be worth it for some.

Compare 2023 Mazda CX-30 trim levels

Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in Texas

$120/mo

$146/mo

Avg. Compact SUV

Calculate my fuel costs

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Mazda CX-30 Owner Reviews

4.2

37 reviews

5(54%)

4(24%)

3(16%)

2(0%)

1(6%)

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

2023 Mazda CX-30 Great little crossover

Sarah, 05/03/2023

2023 Mazda CX-30 Select 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)

I got this over the Mazda 3 sedan/hatchback because it has better ground clearance, more rear headroom, and standard AWD. I've had it for about two weeks. Here's my pros and cons, coming from a 2019 Kia Optima. Pros: the handling is amazing. It's so sharp in turns, with very little body roll. I have no problem going a higher speed in a turn. I enjoy driving it, it feels almost …

Best bang for the buck

Beezer73, 03/15/2023

2023 Mazda CX-30 Preferred 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)

Comes standard with AWD, competitors charge $1500 more or don't offer it at all. They don't mention AWD in performance, value, wildcard, pro's/con's, how does it drive, or fuel economy. It should have been mentioned in all those because it affects all those. Despite me even writing them and telling them this, they refuse to change their review. It also has more horsepower than most in …

Good value for money, looks good, few flaws

Leon B, 01/17/2022

2023 Mazda CX-30 Select 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)

Bought the car in Sept. 2021, have 5,200 miles at the time of posting of this to replace a 2014 Focus with the cursed DCT. Had considered a Mazda 3 sedan but this was not much more in price and better equipped. It is good value for the money. Inside and out much like a premium brand like Volvo, BMW, Audi and a step above a Honda, Toyota, Hyundai/Kia. Has a real transmission, not a DCT or … CVT. Has safety goodies like the cross-traffic backup warning, blind spot, lane warning systems I like and need. I am only 5'4" but sit in it well, easy to get in/out of. With back seat down, can put in a lot of stuff, more than in a sedan. Getting about 28 MPG in mixed suburban driving. My only complaints are: The small cargo area with the back seats up, especially with the sharp angle of the upper part of the hatch gate. A few of the safety goodies a bit too nagging although some can be adjusted to be less annoying. The auto headlights don't go on when wipers are on (as required by law in NJ) in overcast daytime conditions, have to turn on manually. Get warnings to turn on and run car due to 'low battery' condition. Service warnings go on way too far before due (perhaps the dealer set it up that way ?). Has some blind spots even with warning systems. Update 2/10/23 : Has about 24,000 miles on it. Took this on a 10,000 mile cross country trip from NJ to LA in Sept. 2022. Never missed a beat. Rode firm and comfortable on interstates to twisties in the Ozarks. A/C kept up with 100F + heat. Operated from sea level to 12,300 feet but only got a little weak at the highest altitudes. Fuel mileage up to 33 MPG highway, Slight hunting for gear in transmission at times. Small fuel tank, should be 1.5 to 2 gallons more. Sometime the lane departure warning sees tar crack filling instead of lane markers. Visibility poor to back/sides, the blind spot monitor and warning very important. Cargo area a bit small with back seats up. Mine is in silver and when cleaned and shined up, just glows beautifully. Had to transport a friend who has a partially missing lower right leg and is over 6 feet tall, very difficult for him to get in/out of the front passengers seat. As of August 2025, just about 4 years of ownership and 53000 miles - In 2023, took 2 trips into Eastern Texas, New Orleans, Mississippi, Alabama, Atlanta, Savannah, Charleston; Ozarks in MO and AK, Memphis, Southeast Ohio, Kansas City with no problems but for the windshield damaged by a stone and needed replacement in the Houston, TX area. In June 2025 drove into the New England States, including Arcadia National Park. Only problems were some rodents getting into and chewing the front right light wiring system (June 2024) and a software update for the entertainment/info system that had set off a warning on the display (mid-2024). In June 2025 drove into the New England States, including Arcadia National Park. Still on the original tires and brakes. Still get the oil changes done about every 6000.

Perfect Vehicle

Terry, 03/24/2023

2023 Mazda CX-30 Carbon Edition 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6A)

I bought a 2023 CX 30 a month or so ago. I went to purchase the 2023 CX 5, but when my wife saw the CX 30 I was overruled. I cannot believe this little S.U.V. It's so much fun to drive and I feel like I'm in a high-end vehicle. The interior is nothing short of awesome. It's engine is more then capable for any driver. Those who have stated it could use a little more power should have …

See all 37 reviews of the Mazda CX-30

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2023 CX-30 Highlights

Trim:

2.5 S

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$22,950
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	29 MPG
Cost to Drive	$120/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	20.2 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

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Safety

Our experts like the CX-30 models:

Smart Brake Support: Warns you if you are rapidly approaching a vehicle, pedestrian or bicyclist. Can apply the brakes automatically to stop the vehicle to avoid or minimize a collision.
Mazda Radar Cruise Control: Maintains a driver-selected distance between the Mazda CX-30 and the car in front.
Lane Departure Warning System: Alerts the driver if the Mazda CX-30 begins wandering outside of its lane.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover14.7%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Good
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good

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2023 Mazda CX-30 Review

Price & Payment

2023 Mazda CX-30 Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

For sale near San Antonio, TX

2023 Mazda CX-30Select 4dr SUV

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

2023 Mazda CX-30Preferred 4dr SUV

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

What's it like to live with?

Edmunds Expert Rating

Performance

Comfort

Interior

Technology

Storage

Fuel Economy

Value

Wildcard

2023 Mazda CX-30 trim level differences

Which CX-30 trim does Edmunds recommend?

Cost to Drive

Mazda CX-30 Owner Reviews

Most Helpful Owner Reviews

2023 Mazda CX-30 Great little crossover

Best bang for the buck

Good value for money, looks good, few flaws

Perfect Vehicle

2023 CX-30 Highlights

Safety

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2023 Mazda CX-30
Select 4dr SUV

2023 Mazda CX-30
Preferred 4dr SUV