Durhl Caussey
By Durhl Caussey
The 2023 Mazda CX-30 is powered by a 2.5 turbo AWD that delivers a fuel economy of 22-mpg city, 30-mpg highway for a combined 25-mpg mileage.
The CX-30 has a luxurious interior, plus plenty of punch in power, and is available at a decent price. This subcompact is ranked 8.6 out of 10 by US News Best Cars. It was a finalist in 2023 Best Subcompact SUV for the Money.
Mazda’s CX30 offers a wealth of both infotainment and active safety technology located in the roomy interior. Actually, it felt like I was driving a luxury SUV rather than an entry level crossover. Featuring the SKYACTIV-G 2.5 liter turbo engine, with SKACTIV Drive 6- speed sport mode delivering 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft torque.
The CX-30 rests on 18-inch black alloy wheels. Its R 18 tires are complemented by FR&RR LED Headlights and Taillights, Shark Fin Antenna, Power Liftgate and Roof Rails.
My test model CX-30 with Premium Plus Package seats five people. The front seats are comfortable, and the cabin feels spacious. However, the cargo space is a little below average for a subcompact. You get 20.2 cubic feet of room with the second row upright, and you can fold the rear seats to create 45.2 cubic feet. A wide hatch opening makes it easy to load big items, but the back seats don’t fold down completely flat.
However, in the rear, visibility is hampered by small windows and thick pillars. The back is not really made for tall adults to stretch much.
There are two complete sets of LATCH connectors for the CX-30’s rear outboard seats. There is also a tether anchor for the rear middle seat, and you can borrow lower anchors from either side.
This LATCH system is among the easiest and most versatile to use.
The Infotainment Center (8.8-inch) display features Bluetooth and Navigation easily displayed on the center console where there is a rotary knob to command the system. Mastering it can be a challenge. It can be distracting while driving.
The Mazda’s leather –wrapped steering wheel is heated. Seats are also heated and leather trimmed. Paddle shifters are standard, while the 60/40 split fold down rear seat is standard as well.
Safety and Security standard features are too numerous to mention them all. Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert High Beam Control and Anti-theft Engine Immobilizer, were those I found most helpful.
The power sliding-glass moon roof was wonderful, since during my week of driving we got some much needed rain in the Dallas area. Just to watch and hear it falling lifted my spirits immensely.
In the Government 5-Star Safety Rating the CX-30 got 5-Stars in Frontal Driver and Passenger frontal crashes. Not rated in other categories. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price $35,400.
Durhl Caussey is a veteran car writer based in Dallas TX. He can be reached at this newspaper or at durhlcaussey@gmail.com.
