I ordered a CX-30 as I'm more of a car guy, but have to deal with Colorado winters. This is basically a lifted Mazda 3. I didn't want an SUV, which all look cookie cutter to me. Plus, this gets better gas mileage than the CX-5 and 50. And I have no kids, so the small backseat is not an issue.
I think you missed the mark a bit on this. Buyers of the CX-30 were looking at the Mazda 3 and realized that the CX-30 is a lifted Mazda 3 hatchback. It’s got a fun factor that is hard to define and is gone when you hit the size of the CX-5. I’ve owned a CX-30 Turbo for 1.5 years, and I feel like they made this car for me. It’s literally exactly what I was looking for. I love the Mazda 3 hatchback but hate how low to the ground it is. This fixes that, and gives me nominally more trunk space. I had an Audi stick shift before this, and I am not kidding when I say my CX-30 turbo is much more fun to drive. Years ago I had an Acura TSX, and this rivals that in the fun to drive department. If you’re looking for a fun, sporty hot hatch type car, you have to check this car out
I bought my CX-30 for exactly the same reason. Liked the Mazda 3 hatchback but too cramped and low to the ground - this fixes that. The thing I don't understand is AMD mentions CX-5 or CX-50 when talking about the CX-30. The CX-30 is built on the Mazda 3 platform, and so is the CX-50. Exactly Mazda 3. CX-50 was not built on the CX-5 platform, the independent suspension is totally different than the 3, CX-30 and CX-50's torsion bar rear suspension. AMD reviewed the 5 and knows it has different suspension yet he keeps talking about the CX-30 in terms on the CX-50. I love his reviews but this one kind of makes the wrong comparison. His complaints about the window size and other cosmetic points he makes are also comparing them to the CX-5 and CX-50 and he should be comparing it only to the Mazda 3.
I just bought a 2023 Mazda CX-30 2 weeks ago. Love it so far. It’s big enough for me as I drive alone mostly. It has AWD which was very important to me.
You obviously have not driven both CX30 and CX5 to understand the difference between them, because the CX5 maybe bigger, but the CX30 drives like a luxury sports car with the SUV capability comparing to CX50 which drives more like a standard SUV. Besides, not everybody want a big SUV. As for the exterior, the CX50 looks completely different to CX30 in terms of size and design, it's a different car altogether. Those of us who own CX30s actually appreciate the simplistic yet elegant design of the Mazda’s signature KODO Motion philosophy, unlike your careless comment, Mazda put a lot of thought and effort into this sophisticate design.
I have a carbon edition cx30 and I’ll tell you why not a cx-5… why does no one mention the tech is so much more outdated in that car over this car? The knob and system is like 10 years old. It’s the same on the cx-3 and current gen mx-5 has…. The cx-5 also looks so much more plain Jane. The cx-30 is beautiful
Have to agree with you!! I have a 2023 carbon edition cx30 and I love everything about it. The red seats are the perfect touch. My father got a 2024 cx5 and it’s feels so outdated compared to my 2023 despite some “updates” they did to the cx5
Love your videos but disagree on this one. It is simply not appropriate to criticize a small vehicle for being small. It would be like criticizing an Escalade for being big. I chose a small vehicle that is nimble to drive and easy to park. By your standard a Subaru Crosstrek is inferior to a Forrester, a Corolla is inferior to a Camry, etc. I compared the CX-30 to, Crosstrek, Honda HRV, Toyota CorollaCross and CX-30 is far superior to those. The reason the CX-30 is not much less than a CX-5 is because of it's high quality and features which are not available in other small vehicles.
Your review was forwarded to me by TH-cam and I watched all of your reviews on the CX-30, CX-5 and CX-50. I really enjoy your perspective on the mechanical end of the vehicles. Also, in full disclosure, I have a CX-30 Premium Turbo. Again, while I appreciate your perspective on the mechanical end of the vehicle, I think you’re well off base about quite a lot and you even contradict yourself. You said for $2000 more you get a lot more, but then you said it’s the same vehicle. What you should have said was for $2000 more you get more room. For me, at the trim level and model I have, it was a $3000 difference. I could have easily afforded a CX-5, but I preferred both the interior and exterior design of the CX-30 and I happily pocketed the $3000, plus tax, plus interest since I didn’t needs a CX-5. With regards to the exterior, I think it’s pretty close and there are design elements I like about both. However, I think you really missed the mark on the CX-30’s exterior design. With regards to the interior though I don’t think there’s a comparison as the CX-30 simply looks better. It’s more minimal and streamlined. The CX-5’s shifter is too far forward and upward tilting and the air vent stand out too much. Also, you make too much of the infotainment setup. It’s VERY easy to use, even with Apple Car Play, and if you have the vehicle for just a short time i’s easy to use without even looking. And my sleek screen is void of any fingerprints and looks as pristine as the day I took the plastic protector off of it. Still on the interior, I don’t have a family and I didn’t need the extra room. At most I’ll have two additional people in the vehicle and the third person is smaller such that they comfortably fit in the back. Fair game that it’s not a large backseat area, but it’s serviceable and not everybody needs that much room or has that many people they’re carting around. Speaking of room at the back, I completely disagree with your assessment of the back cargo area. PLENTY of room back there. Sure the CX-5 has more room, but do you need it? It always amazes me how reviews make such a big deal about such spaces providing all the measurements. I mean how much junk do people have that they need to haul around all the time? Overall, I think you make some fair points about the backseat space if you have a family or need a vehicle that regularly shuttles three to four passengers. And I think it’s also fair to say that Mazda’s own models can be it’s own competition. However, you’re really overstating that case and contradicting yourself in the process whilst also missing other finer points about the CX-30. Is it perfect? No, but I’ll happily continue to enjoy mine without wishing I had a CX-5 or even a CX-50 which would have cost at minimum $3000+ more.
IMO the smaller size is a plus vs the CX-5 rather than a downside. I prefer the maneuverability, turn radius, and easy parking of smaller cars. They also give a feeling of having more control. I'd sacrifice the extra space any day for that. Heck, I'd pay $2k more for the CX-30 rather than the reverse.
I am now on my second CX30. It's the perfect city car! Not too big, not too small. I have also had passengers of all heights in the rear seats (everyone was comfortable) and filled the rear compartment with loads of stuff (I do wish it was a touch bigger). The car drives so smoothly, is extremely responsive and handles very well. This person seems biased towards larger vehicles and against smaller CUVs. I also test drove a CX5 and hated it... Everyone has their opinions and he is providing an alternate view, but this was review was unbalanced imo.
Totally agree! incidentally the $2000 difference between the two cars is a lie; more like $6000 difference! for being a mechanic he seems to miss the most important point, in that the handling and comfort of the ride are shared by the same engine and dynamics of both cars! the only difference is the price and a few inches of interior space. My 85 yr old mother loves siting in the car! Sorry, but I refuse to pay several thousand dollars more for a few more inches of interior space!! I am 6 ft tall, and have no problem with the comfort and fitting into the tight space of the cx-30!
Size doesn't really matter for some people. It's subjective and depends on what it is used for. As in the saying, "Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder."
I also have chosen CX-30 over CX-5 back in 2020. It is 2 years and I an very happy with the car. No build-quality or technical issues so far. CX-30 is 200 kg lighter then CX-5, but has the same engine. CX-30 drives better. It is built on newer more efficient platform. CX-5 is noticeably solver, especially on inclines. In CX-5 you only get bigger trunk. Cabin space is very similar. Considering the size of a small family, smaller but more nimble CX-30 is better.
Yep. Totally agree. He missed a fun factor that is hard to quantify. The CX-5 feels like an SUV. The CX-30 feels like a hot hatch, and it flies with its large engine in its small body. This is a lifted Mazda 3, not a small CX-5
The CX30 is as much like a sports car as you can get from an SUV - or CUV - but I couldn't find a sports car with the safety features the CX30 has. It's much more fun to drive than its big brother, and it's easier to park in the city. It also costs less! I'm going to some concerts with the savings.
@@RockandRollWoman Not when things like the Porsche Macan GTS, Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio and others (even Ferrari has an "suv" now) exist. I will say the CX-30 is the sportiest psuedo SUV mere mortals can afford. Like others have said, it's basically a lifted Mazda 3 and retains most of that cars nimble, fun to drive nature.
My partner is about 1.5m tall and our kid is not even 5 yo. Currently considering the CX-30 given its price and lifted body for the Canadian roads. It helps that I am 1.66m tall so the driver's seat never locates far into the knees of back passengers.
I bought a 30 premium and when looking , tried the 5 and went with the 30 as i prefer smaller vehicles, did not need the back seat and the 30 was WAY more fun to drive than the 5. I have the na engine and regularly get 34-36 m'g highway at legal to slightly above legal speeds.
i owned a 2021 cx 30 turbo and loved it. then when i saw the cx 50 i had to get it and actually did and currently have the turbo model in zircon colour. after only 5000 km i regret letting go the 30, the cx 30 wa way faster and more agile and way less harsh on bumpy roads. i actually am letting go of my lease to get back the exact cx 30 turbo i had...lol i know
I'm thinking of switching from my 2016 3 iGrandTouring Hatchback to an SUV and was leaning towards CX-50 vs. 5 (for the added space) but people here are convincing me I need to give the CX-30 another look.
When you consider the salesman's job is to conceal the reason you should not buy the product, this is great public service broadcasting and so informative AMD. The channels are developing nicely and not only entertain, they are educating us. I opened a truck fleet workshop in 1980, the guys were never happy with my OCD and continually washing the floor etc. Good on you for having standards and keeping the shop beautiful, I love it. Best wishes to you all for a successful future, please let me know when you introduce a customer collection service that reaches London, UK.
I chose a 2022 CX-30 CE (Carbon Edition) over the CX-5 CE or Premium earlier this year because I liked the fact that it was smaller. The CX-5 & CX-50 are too large for my taste/lifestyle. I'm happy with my CX-30 purchase thus far - no build-quality or technical issues to report. I had to black-out the trim, roof, roof rails & other parts on mine to make the thick black cladding & bumper look like a more natural part of the vehicle. Great little crossover if you don't want a larger vehicle & don't plan to put people in the back seat area.
@@greggf6831 No problems to report after owning my CX-30 CE for about 9 months now. Coming from a sedan, it took a bit of getting used to with regards to the CX-30 shorter-height side windows & a bit more limited rear visibility, but I have adapted just fine (& rear/side blind spot monitoring is great to help with that). The ride quality is much nicer & quieter/insulated than my 2020 Corolla SE sedan was, & no annoying inside dash/door rattles & vibrations like my Corolla was rife with (among other problems I ended up having with it, sadly enough). The headlight visibility at night is also *much better* in my CX-30 than my previous Corolla was. I'm happy with my CX-30 purchase.
@@N2LADIES55I don’t have the rear traffic cross alert, but I have do have the blind spot monitoring. It’s not a fail safe as you have to still look over shoulder. That said visibility it’s a huge issue in my opinion. I’d say about 15 months and 28,000 miles since I bought mine I’ve only had two instances where someone was in my blind spot and I did know it. I consider myself a very alert driver though and so it wasn’t an issue. And I would add that the blind spot monitor notifies you on the heads up display as well. Overall the vehicle has some great safety features that are new to me, but they do really work as intended.
@Thankyou_3 disagree completely. 6 hondas in my family. My sisters 2006 is the oldest, she has replaced nothing. Nothing. Then there is another 8th gen Civic, a 9th gen Civic, a 9th gen Accord, a 3rd gen Cr-v and a 5th gen Cr-v. No problems on any of them.
Apples/oranges. I don't think most people are cross-shopping the two. Many folks, myself included, just prefer the more sporty driving dynamics of a smaller vehicle. $2000 isn't going to make or break me. The CX-30 is more maneuverable, easier to park and handles better. It also has a little better fuel economy and is a more modern design. It looks more upscale. It is more of a "driver's car". We don't have kids. Looking at this to replace my Civic EX-T. My wife has a 2019 CX-3 Touring and loves it.
I went with a CX30 as I wanted something that could still be fun to drive while allowing for a variety of outdoor activities (camping, kayaking, hiking, motorcycle trailer, etc). We get decent snow where I am so the AWD as default is nice. It's just me and my son so extra room isn't a huge issue. It'll fit the two of us and plenty of camping gear and toys for a decent road trip while retaining some fun driving characteristics.
How about a review from a Master Technician that owns a CX-30? Of course I'm going to come across in favor of it, nobody wants to think that they made a poor choice. VBG. I have 19,000 miles on my 2021 Skyactive G 2.5l Non-Turbo, CX-30, it is notable that there are very few changes between the two years. My fuel mileage is a combined 32mpg, and I get as high as the low 39's on a highway trip with the AC on. So, there is a decent difference in fuel economy between the CX-30 and the CX-50. The majority of my usage has me solo in the vehicle. When I do have a passenger it's either just the wife in the right front seat, or it could be my granddaughter in the right rear in her car seat. The rear seat dimensions have not proven to be an issue up to this point. Considering I got the select model that listed close to 27K and I was out the door at just over $24K I judged it to be the best value for money and I have not been disappointed. I'll let you know how this holds up during the next ten years and the expected 400K+ miles.
I purchased 2022 CX-30 Turbo Premium Soul Red white interior with 2,600 miles a week ago. Put 500 miles on it since. I also test drove the non turbo. If your a "driver" turbo is the only option. When you accelerate in a non-turbo, the tranny is constantly trying to search for a gear to accommodate its lack of power. The Adaptive Headlights in conjunction with auto high beams is amazing. Night driving is now lit up like Yankee stadium at all times. Should be mandatory. Would save many lives. Rides like a luxury car. At 80 MPH almost as quiet as a Lincoln Continental. Stability is AMAZING! Plenty of rear leg room with the front seats set at the mid-way point. My 6' tall son got in back & his knees were 4" from front seat. They always show someone getting in the rear with the front seats all the way back. Misleading! Great for a family of four. You most certainly can shut off nanny features. Infotainment system is amazing!!! Took me a day to learn. Bose stereo sounded rich & deep however I wish it had a subwoofer volume level. Increased oil consumption in the turbo is very rare. Mazda has addressed this. All models produced from June 2022 to the present are fine. On models before, Mazda is repairing on a case by case basis. If you hate the cladding I guess you shouldn't buy. Remember, when your driving you can't see it. After I detailed cladding saved me time & energy. Oh yeah, Zoom freaking Zoom!
The CX30 was released a couple of years before the Cx50, and so it’s better to say that the CX50 is a bigger version of the CX30 than the CX30 is a smaller CX50
He missed the boat with this review- both the CX-30 and CX-50 are built on the Mazda 3's platform, not the CX-5. Nothing has been built on the Cx-5's platform with independent suspension - they all have the 3's torsion-bar rear suspension. He reviewed the 5 so how did he forget the platform? He should compare it to the 3 and other small compact SUVs, not the bigger, different CX-5 platform.
Hello. Did little research. Between Mazda cx-30 and cx-5. The platforms are different. cx-30 derives its platform from 4th gen mazda3 with kodos and kai design of 2019. this platform uses more high grade steel. cx-5 platform is 3rd gen mazda platform of 2013 based on kodos design. Also, ofcourse the dimensions are different. Each has its strong points
Very detailed and informative review, thanks! HOWEVER your repeated comments about how this is scaled-down version of the CX-50 seem to ignore the fact that CX-50 is a new model from 2023, while CX-30 started in 2020, really as a lifted version of the Mazda 3 hatchback. The CX-50 was another step to make a larger vehicle on the same platform.
I’m senior tech at mazda and this cars are great. I’m not saying that because I work at mazda, but I want to get one a mazda my self. I drive a 430 myself.. quality is great is not to cheap and it’s not too expensive. Plus the skyactive engine is great and reliable. Yea some older models have head issues but Thaths due to the manufacture when building them. Amazing cars I recommend them
How are the Skyactiv-x engines though? Similarly reliable? I know they got a compressor but still. You get those with 186hp in EU instead of 2.5 atmospheric in USA. Probably made to reduce emissions to fit in EU which answers the question by itself i guess.
Great review, thank you for taking the time to do these car reviews. I really appreciate your mechanical knowledge and thorough review. As of April 2023, the difference in base price btw the CX 30 -vs- CX 5 is now $3700. My wife loves the look & size of this small SUV and recently purchased one.
I appreciate your informative videos. When I first saw the CX-30 on the road, I did a double take - it looked sharp! It is very stylish in my opinion, inside and out. I test drove a few different Mazda models, including the CX-5. I loved all of them for different reasons. However, the CX-30 turbo blew me away. In the city during heavy traffic, I feel like it maneuvers a little better than the larger models and that’s what sold me. The back seats are a bit tight, but it wasn’t a deal breaker for me.
I checked the stock of my local US dealer-- all the CX-30 VINs start with 3 = Made in Mexico. I have reservations about buying a Mazda built in Mexico. The CX-5 VINs all start with J = Made in Japan. I personally prefer the smaller CX-30 and found the CX-5 to be too big for my needs. I'm hesitant to purchase a CX-30 even though I really like the car.
Wrong information. It's not 2k difference. New 2023 CX5 base model is $26,700. Difference is $26700-$22500=$4200. 2022 CX5 base model was $26250 so if you can still find 2022 model it's $26250-$22500=$3750. Also please consider sales tax on them, in my state it is 6.5% so the actual difference is $4200+$273(sales tax difference)+$50 (destination charges difference)= $4523. Not sure if there will be difference in registration charges too. If you are financing it, add difference of the interest rate too. Also the insurance rate for CX30 is cheaper than CX5
Bought my wife the CX-30premium non turbo with Mazda roof racks looks great! This handles like an old BMW E36 like a go cart! Lots of fun. Engine is strong pulls well in sport mode. The Bose system (turn on auto pilot and center point) is not as bassy as my old CX-5 Gt. though. Not a lot of room. Paint is good quality. This car is better to maneuver than the Cx-5. My only complaint small gas tank feels like your always filling up. Otherwise excellent car. Also car has auto lock when you walk away plus Mazda app is free with remote auto start no subscription. Dear support is good 👍🏼
Hello! you do a really good job in there! on my side I took 2021 Cx-30 FWD with 2.0 NA automatic transmission with the matrix led lights from Romania. price was 24.5K euros. Base model was around 22k euros and in comparation with his big brother cx-5 with a starting price from 25k euros (but very very base model 2.0 NA manual, without any fancy extra options like: color display, like automatic AC and other small details that cx-30 has). Indeed the space on the back is quite small, I would rather say it is enough for small teenager family. Personally we are only 2 and we have plenty of room in the front and in the trunk for baggages and other stuff. For me was quite impressing to find 2.0 aspirated engine. Here in Europe nowadays it is a rush among car manufactures and a continuous race on developing small engine sizes (3 cyl) supercharged which from my point of view is not reliable on long time ownership.(it is quite hard to buy a decent new car these times) so for me, personally was the best compromise to have my first ever owned car that I am thinking to keep it for a long time. I don't have too much experience with Asian market cars but since almost 2 years Mazda managed to change my mind about the quality of their cars and in the future when family grows we will look on bigger brothers cx-5 or cx-60 but depending on the deals on the dealership. On my case the configuration price was 28800Euros, luckily the car was in stock (2 weeks time to delivery from Belgium, i was aiming for the premium sound system but I was supposed to wait another year for my own configuration, so I have changed my mind and took the one from stock), it was with two tone interior (blue accent) and the color was blue (totally diferent than the one in my mind). So starting from that 28800, I got a generous discount from dealership plus another discount from the Romanian state, since the car was mild hybrid and total paid price was 24500euros, so for me was a deal at that time. Now I hope that I didn't did a wrong decision taking direct injection engine and classical torque convert transmission.
Some good points, but I picked the 30 over the 5 for a few reasons. Primary one is that it is a second car with my other car a slightly bigger SUV, so when I need the bigger cargo or back seat I have it. It is cheaper, more fun to drive, handles better, actually has a (very) slightly more powerful engine output, better gas mileage. For the "go to the store or Costco or weekend get away with 2 people" is fits the bill better for me. If I had to only have one vehicle, it may have been a tougher choice. That all said, the top-of the line CX-30 is pretty pricey and not sure there are not better choices as you pass $35K+, but in the
Unusable back seat? I am 5’2 and the back seat is very usable. Handling is exceptional. More maneuverable than a CX 9. Interior is way better than a CX 5.
I agree for the most part. The CX-5 is a better buy for the majority of people. That being said, I did recommend the CX-30 for my mom. She has a single lane driveway and cannot go as large as a CX-5. She’s also not a great driver, so the small size and high clearance means she is far less likely to damage her car.
i can see alot of car reviewers/car enthusiasts not understanding the small cuv/suv segment. but as a 5'2 person myself, something like the cx-5 can be too big, and can be unsafe for my even short folks (below 5 ft). While there are downsides of this cuv segment, it can be a win to smaller people that also want a taller ride height. I own a mazda 3 myself, and i did test drive the cx-30 while shopping, but i felt the belt line was too high, and the windows are too small like you mentioned. it made me felt crushed and not safe. Fortunately at 5'2, the mazda 3 is just perfect for me, and I do like the better driving dynamics more.
You did the right thing: properly test driving all of them to find what was the best fit for you. Infact the cx30 is on the same platform as the M3 just higher.
Great video, I think the cx30 was meant to be a higher vehicle than the mazda 3. However as you point out so well, it makes more sense to spend an extr 2k and get the 5.
Long time Toyota owner here, picked up a new CX5. Feels luxurious compared to all of the Toyotas I’ve owned. Nice getting quality and tech without spending the premium. New Mazda fan here.
I’m confused because he keeps mentioning the CX 50 but the CX 30 came out like 3 years before the CX 50. So really the CX 50 is based in the CX 30. Also the CX 30 shares the same platform as a Mazda 3
We purchased CX-30 and after 1 and half years, we are absolutely happy. I had opportunity to drive CX-5 for a month before we ordered CX-30, but didn’t like it. If I go for SUV, than CX-60😊
Here in Canada the difference between cx30 and cx5 base models is 4000, so option for CX30 might make sense for some people. Also, it's strange that you are having just 23 MPG. Some people claim to get 37 on a CX30.
The Mazda CX30 is a brilliant stylish car with excellent build quality and a nice friendly solid driving experience we have had our CX30 Sport for over a year and it has given us a trouble free driving experience Our CX30 has all the extras you need and more with adaptive cruse control driving in town is done with your thumb on the selection control on a long trip you have all the safety features to keep you safe and it soaks up the miles with ease We don't have children and the rear of the car is a little tight but a young family with toddlers will be fine You can truly have fun in a CX30 and even relax while you drive my wife and I would recommend a CX30 to anyone in fact all the Mazda range are quality and packed with tec Bear Hull UK
Mazda is either brave, bold, crazy, stubborn, wreckless or innovative. The way they use the same engine in their full size SUV, as they do in their smallest, is pretty wild.
Yes, Mazda Spent the time and money to develop one engine properly so it's bullet proof. They also have a 2 litre version/option in our countries like here in Australia
Hello. I want to thank you for your channel! You give wonderful reviews for the mechanically inclined and for those are looking for options and style. I pretty much agree with you on the CX-30 when I was car shopping. So I did by a 2024 CX-30 at the lowest trim level price point on the lot which was the Select S. The dealer really worked with me to get out of 2021 Honda Passport lease as lost all equity. I am not new to small cars as I've been a Honda owner for many years. I was considering the CX-5 however it was $4,000 + more due to the inflation. So I am in my 60s and single. I love this sporty CX 30!! I don't never think I'll go back to Honda. This car is so quiet comparatively and the ride smoother with few quirks upshifting. It's perfect for me and I'm 5'7". A friend of mine who is 5'9 sat up front and has two middle school children who fit perfectly in the backseat. Just have to adjust the front seats to accommodate others. I do agree getting out that back seat door can be a struggle for adults. In 3 weeks of owning it, my city mileage improved to 24mpg.. highway to 33mpg going 75-80mph. Not thrilled about the outer body design on any Mazda but i can live with it. I would like try a CX-50 maybe in the future of the CX-5 is no longer around. PS... But I saw on the Mazda website that the CX-5 has 187 HP engine but the cx30 has a 191 HP... I am no mechanic.
I drive a 2023 CX-5, normally aspirated, and I am very happy with it. However, I almost went with the CX-30. Yes, there are many similarities, and the quality of the drive and interior is likewise similar, but these two vehicles appeal to different circumstances. If I didn't need to occasionally take two passengers, I would have gone with the CX-30. It's a bit less expensive than the CX-5 (especially for what the car offers) and it's definitely a more spirited driving experience. For a single person, this is an ideal car. In fact, I only use the back seat once or twice a month. (When I need it, I NEED it!) However, if I didn't plan on using the backseat regularly, I would've happily chosen the CX-30. Car Care Nut, your reviews are generally well-thought-out, and your mechanic's perspective (and honest appraisal) is very much appreciated. However, you're a family man, and you're intuitively looking at this from that perspective. (I've owned a couple of minivans; I know where you're coming from.) The CX-30, however, is obviously NOT intended as a family mover. Once this is acknowledged, it's clearly a very strong contender for the average single person (and the occasional passenger).
A couple of years ago, my wife and I went hunting for a Mazda. She had her sights on the CX-5. At the dealership, we both saw the CX-30. We both agreed that it looked quirky. It wasn't until that we both sat inside of the car, that it felt cramped with no good all round vision. She settled for the CX-5.
I have a 2020 cx 30 select non turbo. Great car. I get 25 mpg around town and 29-32 on the highway. Only problem so far is a warning about some "internal communications error".. It is intermittent so next time to the dealer I'll have them look at it.. I hated the big black cladding so I had it painted to match the car. Good review btw, tnx.
The CX-30 is made for single or double occupancy , I bought mine for my teenage daughter that will not have the option of having a car full of friends. I like the safety features the higher models offer and should be standard for the blind spots. CX-50 would be for a family of 4 but with the same engine its not worth the money.
Thank you for your review and opinion. Unfortunately too many touchy owners down in those comments who were just looking for validation but didn't get any
We love AMD, but this is the first review where he keeps comparing the orange (Mazda 3, CX-30, CX-50 built on the 3's platform with torsion bar rear suspension) with the apple of CX-5's independent suspension built on an older platform. Buyers of the CX-30 were looking at the Mazda 3 or Mazda 3 hatchback and other small compact SUVs, not the Mazda 5 (for the vast majority I think.). We also didn't care about car seats - maybe we just liked the zoom of the 3 with that great interior and features - I mostly put the rear seats down to expand my trunk space but 4 adults sit quite comfortable in the car as well AMD is usually spot on - but he's comparing the wrong fruit here.
I don't have a family. it is perfect for me. smaller size is a plus. I would probably always have the back seat folded down. I think of it as a raised hatchback with higher ground clearance that I can drive in all weather.
Just purchased CX 30 select..same color as this. Why the CX30? We're empty nesters, would've preferred the mx5 but lacks AWD, a backseat, and cargo capacity (kennel)....CX 30 is IMO one of the best looking suv out there, more of the classic 68 firebird ( my first car) less of the 2020s angular soon to be outdated typical suv appearance...the CX5 appears to have been an afterthought...ungainly, awkward appearance, somewhat heavier with same power train as the CX30....just test drive the 2 and tell me there's no reason to go lighter...OH and the lone CX50 on the lot was non turbo top premium trim....honestly I didn't see the value to justify the expense of the14k$ upcharge . CX 50 rode stiff but is the better looking of the 2. CX50 vs CX5..didn't have the acceleration of the lighter CX30..Turbo could tip the scale in favor of the CX50 but long term reliability the problem....
I chose the CX30 over the Miata for the same reasons. After 25 years of my beloved Mazda MX6, I now have a car with a backup camera, blindspot detection, etc - but it's still fun to drive. I have no interest in anything larger. Not only did I spend less, my registration and insurance premium will be lower forever.
Very good detailed review... However, a lot of what he has to say is based on his own preferences. Nothing wrong with that but the review is presented as though the things that are important to him are important to everyone. Please try to be less personally biased. Overall very good review if you can listen with a grain of salt.
Why shoud people get the Mazda CX30 over the heavier and bigger CX50? the answer is simple: Either young people or not a big family customers! It is a fun car with a much better driving experience than the CX50 since it has kess weight while keeping the same engine! and this is a SUV( utility) to have fun specialy since the coupes are not selling well anymore at keast here in USA because they are less practical! In relation to the shape and apearance, the CR30 looks more rugged and sportier than the CX50.. Take a look on the strets when you are driving and most time you see only one or tow passengers on a car! if you are big and being in shape is not your thing, get a bigger car! if you are young eother chronologically or in spirit, have fun and get a beeter driving exoerience in the CX30 ! Just my opinion! I am having the CX30 in my list for now! And yes, I like the shape, the design and the size!
but in CX5 you get an independent suspension and better handling. And I agree on format of a car - Volvo V40 croos country is good format but model is outdated
Over 17 months into my 2022 CX-30 ownership experience & not a single issue or problem to report with the vehicle yet. Not even a single token inside cabin rattle. Best vehicle in its size/price segment. I feel that Mazda has managed to overtake both Toyota or Honda with regards to building quality ICE vehicle these days, but then both of those have also backslid on build quality & attention to detail. Mazda could have done a better job on the cladding for this vehicle though, & the fact that they didn't also black-out the front/side chrome trim & silver roof rails on this vehicle is borderline criminal. 😉
@@dang75790 Yep, but they don't design & build them for Mazda, they just own shares in the company & have a "partnership" for sharing certain tech/research & such. Toyota also owns part of Subaru in the same manner. The upcoming US Mazda hybrids in 2025/2026 will use a Toyota engine & hybrid-EV system, however, from what I hear.
You would have to pay me at least $2k more to own a CX5! This smaller, sportier car is more fun to drive, easier to park, costs less to register and insure, gets better mileage, and did I mention that it's more fun to drive? The feel is as close to a sports car as I could find in this price range with safety features like blindspot detection. I understand that you're a big car guy, which is fine, but there's no reason to question the rationality of all of us happy CX30 drivers. Viva la difference...
Great review as always but the point of this car is its an alternative to the Mazda 3 not the bigger Cx-5 but you are right why buy this and not the CX-5.I just bought a CX-5 Kuro in Canada its almost as good as a Lexus NX for about 15k less.
I'm age 67 and never had kids and most times I will be the only person in the car so the backseat size is not a problem. I have a 1997 Toyota Camry I purchased new and have never had anyone ride in my backseat and this will be the same for the Cx-30.
i subscribed cause you blessed us at the end. i had a feeling your heart and head were in the right place, and the ending just confirmed it. bless your soul. very nice and honest review, thank you.
I suppose every car with direct injection and without multi-point injection in an intake can have carbon problems - valve seals can leak with oil and crankcase ventilation gases can can build carbon too. The older a car - the more chance of it - a seal wears,hardens and leaks with more oil.
I really would like to know your opinion on this,,,a 2022 cx30 manufactured in Japan, or a 2022 cx30 manufactured in Mexico, as far as quality and reliability, your honest opinion please
I recently rented a 2024 CX30. It handled great, but the doors sounded hollow when you closed the doors......not a deal breaker.......it's just that I've driven other suvs that just sound substantial when the doors are closed. Again, not the end of the world, just something that took me by surprise. ALSO.......i live down a dirt road.......THIS car didn't handle the bumps on the road very well!!! Felt like i was driving on a washboard!!
The Lexus ones and others, agreed. But for this one I think the CX30. There are other factors besides space. And probably 95% of the time you use the car, you will not even be fully utilizing the space available in the 30, leave alone the 5. It's only that uncomfortable subconscious feeling of the rear suspension not being a multilink. Other than that, CX30 any day.
I went one week ago to mazda showroom and i was impressed with interior quality and back seat space as i heard a lot of reviewers complaining about it , go check this car in person it looks really good outside and inside luxurious, and i think this car space more than enough for small family of 4
CX-30 beats everything else in this segment: 2.5L baseline engine, 191HP, AWD, traditional automatic (no CVT), luxurious interior. This review is nuts.
I don't know where you've been lately, but the mazda cx30 actually made his debut in ginevra 2019, the cx50 launched in Jan 22. It really annoyed me a lot when you compared to the cx50 every freaking 2 minutes. The mazda cx30 has got the exterior design from the actual mazda kodo design philosophy, so it's got nothing to do with mixing other mazda models, it's the other way around. I would strongly suggest you to check out at least wikipedia and mazda website before releasing any car review other than toyota and lexus.
You spent a lot of time discussing why this is a bad buy. I think you should have thought about the use cases this car would be good for. We are retired, no kids or grand kids. This is a perfect second car for my wife who does not want the bigger CX-5. The small back seat is a non issue for us. A great city runner for groceries etc.
People forget that in the 90s this car would be slightly above average in size. I love the small windows. It makes me feel cozy, kinda like in a cocoon. I never feel like i need more room. I fit a 68” tv in here, a 7 cubic foot freezer and a leather recliner, not all at once of course. I prefer this to the cx5 because its MORE comfortable. You sit more upright in the cx5. The cx50 is also much more expensive and looks a bit weird. This car is perfect.
I ordered a CX-30 as I'm more of a car guy, but have to deal with Colorado winters. This is basically a lifted Mazda 3. I didn't want an SUV, which all look cookie cutter to me. Plus, this gets better gas mileage than the CX-5 and 50. And I have no kids, so the small backseat is not an issue.
Same.
Why not Toyota
I test drove both, and I’m buying a CX-30. Amazing car.
I have the CX-30 Turbo, it is a beautiful, fun to drive hatchback
Agreed. It’s the whole point of a crossover, right!?
I think you missed the mark a bit on this. Buyers of the CX-30 were looking at the Mazda 3 and realized that the CX-30 is a lifted Mazda 3 hatchback. It’s got a fun factor that is hard to define and is gone when you hit the size of the CX-5. I’ve owned a CX-30 Turbo for 1.5 years, and I feel like they made this car for me. It’s literally exactly what I was looking for. I love the Mazda 3 hatchback but hate how low to the ground it is. This fixes that, and gives me nominally more trunk space. I had an Audi stick shift before this, and I am not kidding when I say my CX-30 turbo is much more fun to drive. Years ago I had an Acura TSX, and this rivals that in the fun to drive department. If you’re looking for a fun, sporty hot hatch type car, you have to check this car out
i used to own a RSX-S in my late teens. This feels like the grown up version of that in some ways. still fun, premium and affordable!
I currently own a 2009 Acura TSX wtih 220,000 miles on her. I am looking into CX30 as my next vehicle.
I'm considering the Mazda CX30. However, I live in South Texas and have 100+ temps for months at a time. How's the AC?
@@cherimcdonald8107 Bought one 3 days ago, tinted windows help keep the car cool and the AC works great!!!
I bought my CX-30 for exactly the same reason. Liked the Mazda 3 hatchback but too cramped and low to the ground - this fixes that. The thing I don't understand is AMD mentions CX-5 or CX-50 when talking about the CX-30. The CX-30 is built on the Mazda 3 platform, and so is the CX-50. Exactly Mazda 3. CX-50 was not built on the CX-5 platform, the independent suspension is totally different than the 3, CX-30 and CX-50's torsion bar rear suspension. AMD reviewed the 5 and knows it has different suspension yet he keeps talking about the CX-30 in terms on the CX-50. I love his reviews but this one kind of makes the wrong comparison. His complaints about the window size and other cosmetic points he makes are also comparing them to the CX-5 and CX-50 and he should be comparing it only to the Mazda 3.
I just bought a 2023 Mazda CX-30 2 weeks ago. Love it so far. It’s big enough for me as I drive alone mostly. It has AWD which was very important to me.
Dear Sir. How is the car holding up a year later? would appreciate your insight
Congrats on your purchase and I'm thinking of the same year and model. How is the AC?
Nope, I test drive both (similarly equipped) and easily chose the CX30, better tech and a better drive. Love it!
What better tech was decicive?
The tech is the same across the board in all Mazdas! The differences lie in what trim level you went with!
@@BigBadJohnDiesel nah, the cx30 has a been more refined techs than the cx5 for exemple, and in Europe at least it has the e-SkyActiv X engine.
You obviously have not driven both CX30 and CX5 to understand the difference between them, because the CX5 maybe bigger, but the CX30 drives like a luxury sports car with the SUV capability comparing to CX50 which drives more like a standard SUV. Besides, not everybody want a big SUV.
As for the exterior, the CX50 looks completely different to CX30 in terms of size and design, it's a different car altogether. Those of us who own CX30s actually appreciate the simplistic yet elegant design of the Mazda’s signature KODO Motion philosophy, unlike your careless comment, Mazda put a lot of thought and effort into this sophisticate design.
I have 23 Cx5 GT and 22 Cx30 GS (Canada), I am 100% agree with you , Cx30 is amazingly well tuned in terms of driving dynamics.
I have a carbon edition cx30 and I’ll tell you why not a cx-5… why does no one mention the tech is so much more outdated in that car over this car? The knob and system is like 10 years old. It’s the same on the cx-3 and current gen mx-5 has…. The cx-5 also looks so much more plain Jane. The cx-30 is beautiful
Have to agree with you!! I have a 2023 carbon edition cx30 and I love everything about it. The red seats are the perfect touch. My father got a 2024 cx5 and it’s feels so outdated compared to my 2023 despite some “updates” they did to the cx5
Love your videos but disagree on this one. It is simply not appropriate to criticize a small vehicle for being small. It would be like criticizing an Escalade for being big. I chose a small vehicle that is nimble to drive and easy to park. By your standard a Subaru Crosstrek is inferior to a Forrester, a Corolla is inferior to a Camry, etc. I compared the CX-30 to, Crosstrek, Honda HRV, Toyota CorollaCross and CX-30 is far superior to those.
The reason the CX-30 is not much less than a CX-5 is because of it's high quality and features which are not available in other small vehicles.
And as a bonus is cx-30 just more driver oriented car in comparsion to cx-5. Cx-5 is boring.
Think you missed the point, it has the same engine, same trans, same interior, 3mpg difference, spend 3 grand more and get the cx5?
Compare it to the VW T-cross, which has adjustable rear sits. You will fit 4 adults there no problem, and it's smaller than this.
Except he said the Crosstrek had good space in the rear seat... So.
Your review was forwarded to me by TH-cam and I watched all of your reviews on the CX-30, CX-5 and CX-50. I really enjoy your perspective on the mechanical end of the vehicles. Also, in full disclosure, I have a CX-30 Premium Turbo.
Again, while I appreciate your perspective on the mechanical end of the vehicle, I think you’re well off base about quite a lot and you even contradict yourself. You said for $2000 more you get a lot more, but then you said it’s the same vehicle. What you should have said was for $2000 more you get more room. For me, at the trim level and model I have, it was a $3000 difference. I could have easily afforded a CX-5, but I preferred both the interior and exterior design of the CX-30 and I happily pocketed the $3000, plus tax, plus interest since I didn’t needs a CX-5.
With regards to the exterior, I think it’s pretty close and there are design elements I like about both. However, I think you really missed the mark on the CX-30’s exterior design. With regards to the interior though I don’t think there’s a comparison as the CX-30 simply looks better. It’s more minimal and streamlined. The CX-5’s shifter is too far forward and upward tilting and the air vent stand out too much. Also, you make too much of the infotainment setup. It’s VERY easy to use, even with Apple Car Play, and if you have the vehicle for just a short time i’s easy to use without even looking. And my sleek screen is void of any fingerprints and looks as pristine as the day I took the plastic protector off of it.
Still on the interior, I don’t have a family and I didn’t need the extra room. At most I’ll have two additional people in the vehicle and the third person is smaller such that they comfortably fit in the back. Fair game that it’s not a large backseat area, but it’s serviceable and not everybody needs that much room or has that many people they’re carting around.
Speaking of room at the back, I completely disagree with your assessment of the back cargo area. PLENTY of room back there. Sure the CX-5 has more room, but do you need it? It always amazes me how reviews make such a big deal about such spaces providing all the measurements. I mean how much junk do people have that they need to haul around all the time?
Overall, I think you make some fair points about the backseat space if you have a family or need a vehicle that regularly shuttles three to four passengers. And I think it’s also fair to say that Mazda’s own models can be it’s own competition. However, you’re really overstating that case and contradicting yourself in the process whilst also missing other finer points about the CX-30. Is it perfect? No, but I’ll happily continue to enjoy mine without wishing I had a CX-5 or even a CX-50 which would have cost at minimum $3000+ more.
Perfect description enjoy your car , I don’t have one but I liked it when I was searching for a car for my son 👍🏽
IMO the smaller size is a plus vs the CX-5 rather than a downside. I prefer the maneuverability, turn radius, and easy parking of smaller cars. They also give a feeling of having more control. I'd sacrifice the extra space any day for that. Heck, I'd pay $2k more for the CX-30 rather than the reverse.
not to mention the CX5 is a small dick car
Better mileage and also fits in a tiny one car garage better than a CX-5.
When I got home from the dealer I couldn't believe how much easier it was to park the cx-30 vs my previous 2008 Honda CRV!
Yes the rear suspension is a bit old school, but Mazda has tuned so good there is no significant downside.
I am now on my second CX30. It's the perfect city car! Not too big, not too small. I have also had passengers of all heights in the rear seats (everyone was comfortable) and filled the rear compartment with loads of stuff (I do wish it was a touch bigger). The car drives so smoothly, is extremely responsive and handles very well. This person seems biased towards larger vehicles and against smaller CUVs. I also test drove a CX5 and hated it...
Everyone has their opinions and he is providing an alternate view, but this was review was unbalanced imo.
100%
Yes
I test drove a used CX-5 recently and the seat bottoms are too hard.
I agree. I like the guy but he harped too much on this personal bias of his...should just stick to the mechanics, in my opinion
Totally agree! incidentally the $2000 difference between the two cars is a lie; more like $6000 difference! for being a mechanic he seems to miss the most important point, in that the handling and comfort of the ride are shared by the same engine and dynamics of both cars! the only difference is the price and a few inches of interior space. My 85 yr old mother loves siting in the car!
Sorry, but I refuse to pay several thousand dollars more for a few more inches of interior space!! I am 6 ft tall, and have no problem with the comfort and fitting into the tight space of the cx-30!
Size doesn't really matter for some people. It's subjective and depends on what it is used for. As in the saying, "Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder."
I also have chosen CX-30 over CX-5 back in 2020. It is 2 years and I an very happy with the car. No build-quality or technical issues so far. CX-30 is 200 kg lighter then CX-5, but has the same engine. CX-30 drives better. It is built on newer more efficient platform. CX-5 is noticeably solver, especially on inclines. In CX-5 you only get bigger trunk. Cabin space is very similar. Considering the size of a small family, smaller but more nimble CX-30 is better.
Yeah my girlfriend and I just test drove one of these and a CX-5 and we agreed the CX-30 felt way nicer to drive.
Yep. Totally agree. He missed a fun factor that is hard to quantify. The CX-5 feels like an SUV. The CX-30 feels like a hot hatch, and it flies with its large engine in its small body. This is a lifted Mazda 3, not a small CX-5
The CX30 is as much like a sports car as you can get from an SUV - or CUV - but I couldn't find a sports car with the safety features the CX30 has. It's much more fun to drive than its big brother, and it's easier to park in the city. It also costs less! I'm going to some concerts with the savings.
@@RockandRollWoman Not when things like the Porsche Macan GTS, Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio and others (even Ferrari has an "suv" now) exist. I will say the CX-30 is the sportiest psuedo SUV mere mortals can afford. Like others have said, it's basically a lifted Mazda 3 and retains most of that cars nimble, fun to drive nature.
There is something off about you too 😂
Really enjoying my CX 30 Turbo so far. It is the perfect car to have in the city…a bit large actually, but worth a few inches for the smooth ride.
Reviewers seem to think every customer owns a farm and has 6 kids. No! More and more Americans have either 1 or no kids.
We have 2 kids.
My partner is about 1.5m tall and our kid is not even 5 yo. Currently considering the CX-30 given its price and lifted body for the Canadian roads. It helps that I am 1.66m tall so the driver's seat never locates far into the knees of back passengers.
One is better than no kids!
I bought a 30 premium and when looking , tried the 5 and went with the 30 as i prefer smaller vehicles, did not need the back seat and the 30 was WAY more fun to drive than the 5. I have the na engine and regularly get 34-36 m'g highway at legal to slightly above legal speeds.
This is a really beautiful car. Mazda has outdone itself with the cx30
i owned a 2021 cx 30 turbo and loved it. then when i saw the cx 50 i had to get it and actually did and currently have the turbo model in zircon colour. after only 5000 km i regret letting go the 30, the cx 30 wa way faster and more agile and way less harsh on bumpy roads. i actually am letting go of my lease to get back the exact cx 30 turbo i had...lol i know
I'm thinking of switching from my 2016 3 iGrandTouring Hatchback to an SUV and was leaning towards CX-50 vs. 5 (for the added space) but people here are convincing me I need to give the CX-30 another look.
When you consider the salesman's job is to conceal the reason you should not buy the product, this is great public service broadcasting and so informative AMD. The channels are developing nicely and not only entertain, they are educating us. I opened a truck fleet workshop in 1980, the guys were never happy with my OCD and continually washing the floor etc. Good on you for having standards and keeping the shop beautiful, I love it. Best wishes to you all for a successful future, please let me know when you introduce a customer collection service that reaches London, UK.
I chose a 2022 CX-30 CE (Carbon Edition) over the CX-5 CE or Premium earlier this year because I liked the fact that it was smaller. The CX-5 & CX-50 are too large for my taste/lifestyle. I'm happy with my CX-30 purchase thus far - no build-quality or technical issues to report. I had to black-out the trim, roof, roof rails & other parts on mine to make the thick black cladding & bumper look like a more natural part of the vehicle. Great little crossover if you don't want a larger vehicle & don't plan to put people in the back seat area.
Hey do you still like the car? Have any complaints? Is visibility poor? I live in NYC so i'm considering it
@@greggf6831 No problems to report after owning my CX-30 CE for about 9 months now. Coming from a sedan, it took a bit of getting used to with regards to the CX-30 shorter-height side windows & a bit more limited rear visibility, but I have adapted just fine (& rear/side blind spot monitoring is great to help with that). The ride quality is much nicer & quieter/insulated than my 2020 Corolla SE sedan was, & no annoying inside dash/door rattles & vibrations like my Corolla was rife with (among other problems I ended up having with it, sadly enough). The headlight visibility at night is also *much better* in my CX-30 than my previous Corolla was. I'm happy with my CX-30 purchase.
Thanks
@@inctru I've seen some people complain about visibility but I assume the blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert would solve that problem.
@@N2LADIES55I don’t have the rear traffic cross alert, but I have do have the blind spot monitoring. It’s not a fail safe as you have to still look over shoulder. That said visibility it’s a huge issue in my opinion. I’d say about 15 months and 28,000 miles since I bought mine I’ve only had two instances where someone was in my blind spot and I did know it. I consider myself a very alert driver though and so it wasn’t an issue. And I would add that the blind spot monitor notifies you on the heads up display as well. Overall the vehicle has some great safety features that are new to me, but they do really work as intended.
This small suv with the 2.5 turbo 4 is a beast!! I wish manufacturers made more of such small sized yet high displacement suvs...
Mazda is far superior in quality and durability than Honda especially in the last decade.
durable, nooo, just better looking mechanical honda is better
@@pilotb18 Hondas have quality issues especially with engines. They are garbage in the last decade.
@Thankyou_3 really? The R18 lasts forever
@@ChrisBrown-pz2guForever are those SOHC engines from late 80s and 90s from Honda. After 2000s, they pretty much became Planned Obsolescence.
@Thankyou_3 disagree completely. 6 hondas in my family. My sisters 2006 is the oldest, she has replaced nothing. Nothing. Then there is another 8th gen Civic, a 9th gen Civic, a 9th gen Accord, a 3rd gen Cr-v and a 5th gen Cr-v. No problems on any of them.
Apples/oranges. I don't think most people are cross-shopping the two. Many folks, myself included, just prefer the more sporty driving dynamics of a smaller vehicle. $2000 isn't going to make or break me. The CX-30 is more maneuverable, easier to park and handles better. It also has a little better fuel economy and is a more modern design. It looks more upscale. It is more of a "driver's car". We don't have kids. Looking at this to replace my Civic EX-T. My wife has a 2019 CX-3 Touring and loves it.
I agree with that totally.
I went with a CX30 as I wanted something that could still be fun to drive while allowing for a variety of outdoor activities (camping, kayaking, hiking, motorcycle trailer, etc). We get decent snow where I am so the AWD as default is nice. It's just me and my son so extra room isn't a huge issue. It'll fit the two of us and plenty of camping gear and toys for a decent road trip while retaining some fun driving characteristics.
How about a review from a Master Technician that owns a CX-30? Of course I'm going to come across in favor of it, nobody wants to think that they made a poor choice. VBG. I have 19,000 miles on my 2021 Skyactive G 2.5l Non-Turbo, CX-30, it is notable that there are very few changes between the two years. My fuel mileage is a combined 32mpg, and I get as high as the low 39's on a highway trip with the AC on. So, there is a decent difference in fuel economy between the CX-30 and the CX-50. The majority of my usage has me solo in the vehicle. When I do have a passenger it's either just the wife in the right front seat, or it could be my granddaughter in the right rear in her car seat. The rear seat dimensions have not proven to be an issue up to this point. Considering I got the select model that listed close to 27K and I was out the door at just over $24K I judged it to be the best value for money and I have not been disappointed. I'll let you know how this holds up during the next ten years and the expected 400K+ miles.
Did you get the employee discount? You got a great deal, even if that was before prices went up.
@@garrettw99 No. Not an employee. I had a lot of time that I could spend shopping around.
The turbo cx30 is incredibly fun to drive. Nice blend of fast, comfy, nimble and stable
I purchased 2022 CX-30 Turbo Premium Soul Red white interior with 2,600 miles a week ago. Put 500 miles on it since. I also test drove the non turbo. If your a "driver" turbo is the only option.
When you accelerate in a non-turbo, the tranny is constantly trying to search for a gear to accommodate its lack of power.
The Adaptive Headlights in conjunction with auto high beams is amazing. Night driving is now lit up like Yankee stadium at all times. Should be mandatory. Would save many lives. Rides like a luxury car. At 80 MPH almost as quiet as a Lincoln Continental. Stability is AMAZING! Plenty of rear leg room with the front seats set at the mid-way point. My 6' tall son got in back & his knees were 4" from front seat.
They always show someone getting in the rear with the front seats all the way back. Misleading! Great for a family of four. You most certainly can shut off nanny features. Infotainment system is amazing!!!
Took me a day to learn. Bose stereo sounded rich & deep however I wish it had a subwoofer volume level. Increased oil consumption in the turbo is very rare. Mazda has addressed this. All models produced from June 2022 to the present are fine. On models before, Mazda is repairing on a case by case basis. If you hate the cladding I guess you shouldn't buy. Remember, when your driving you can't see it. After I detailed cladding saved me time & energy. Oh yeah, Zoom freaking Zoom!
What is cladding?
@@JHam17 Black trim on the outside.
Some don't like the looks.
@james - You are right on point with your comments. So well said, thank for sharing.
The CX30 was released a couple of years before the Cx50, and so it’s better to say that the CX50 is a bigger version of the CX30 than the CX30 is a smaller CX50
Potato Potata
He literally said that in the video...
He missed the boat with this review- both the CX-30 and CX-50 are built on the Mazda 3's platform, not the CX-5. Nothing has been built on the Cx-5's platform with independent suspension - they all have the 3's torsion-bar rear suspension. He reviewed the 5 so how did he forget the platform? He should compare it to the 3 and other small compact SUVs, not the bigger, different CX-5 platform.
Hello. Did little research. Between Mazda cx-30 and cx-5. The platforms are different. cx-30 derives its platform from 4th gen mazda3 with kodos and kai design of 2019. this platform uses more high grade steel. cx-5 platform is 3rd gen mazda platform of 2013 based on kodos design. Also, ofcourse the dimensions are different. Each has its strong points
This is the 8th review I saw on cx30. I thought I saw the best reviews until I see this one. Kudos!!
Appreciate the frank comments about this vehicle and its big brother!
Very detailed and informative review, thanks! HOWEVER your repeated comments about how this is scaled-down version of the CX-50 seem to ignore the fact that CX-50 is a new model from 2023, while CX-30 started in 2020, really as a lifted version of the Mazda 3 hatchback. The CX-50 was another step to make a larger vehicle on the same platform.
I’m senior tech at mazda and this cars are great. I’m not saying that because I work at mazda, but I want to get one a mazda my self. I drive a 430 myself.. quality is great is not to cheap and it’s not too expensive. Plus the skyactive engine is great and reliable. Yea some older models have head issues but Thaths due to the manufacture when building them. Amazing cars I recommend them
How are the Skyactiv-x engines though? Similarly reliable? I know they got a compressor but still. You get those with 186hp in EU instead of 2.5 atmospheric in USA. Probably made to reduce emissions to fit in EU which answers the question by itself i guess.
Great review, thank you for taking the time to do these car reviews. I really appreciate your mechanical knowledge and thorough review. As of April 2023, the difference in base price btw the CX 30 -vs- CX 5 is now $3700. My wife loves the look & size of this small SUV and recently purchased one.
Odd. Sat in the front and back of a CX-30 today. I'm 6', a bit lanky, and I fit fine. With the front seat adjusted for me.
Yes I sat on the back seat and is decent for this small car.
I appreciate your informative videos. When I first saw the CX-30 on the road, I did a double take - it looked sharp! It is very stylish in my opinion, inside and out. I test drove a few different Mazda models, including the CX-5. I loved all of them for different reasons. However, the CX-30 turbo blew me away. In the city during heavy traffic, I feel like it maneuvers a little better than the larger models and that’s what sold me. The back seats are a bit tight, but it wasn’t a deal breaker for me.
Excellent, fair and honest review. Thank you. I am now subscribing this channel.
I checked the stock of my local US dealer-- all the CX-30 VINs start with 3 = Made in Mexico. I have reservations about buying a Mazda built in Mexico. The CX-5 VINs all start with J = Made in Japan. I personally prefer the smaller CX-30 and found the CX-5 to be too big for my needs. I'm hesitant to purchase a CX-30 even though I really like the car.
Mazda is the perfect balance between driving experience, luxury, and reliability. To bad that they're trims get very pricy very fast :(
Wrong information. It's not 2k difference. New 2023 CX5 base model is $26,700. Difference is $26700-$22500=$4200. 2022 CX5 base model was $26250 so if you can still find 2022 model it's $26250-$22500=$3750. Also please consider sales tax on them, in my state it is 6.5% so the actual difference is $4200+$273(sales tax difference)+$50 (destination charges difference)= $4523. Not sure if there will be difference in registration charges too. If you are financing it, add difference of the interest rate too. Also the insurance rate for CX30 is cheaper than CX5
Bought my wife the CX-30premium non turbo with Mazda roof racks looks great! This handles like an old BMW E36 like a go cart! Lots of fun. Engine is strong pulls well in sport mode. The Bose system (turn on auto pilot and center point) is not as bassy as my old CX-5 Gt. though. Not a lot of room. Paint is good quality. This car is better to maneuver than the Cx-5. My only complaint small gas tank feels like your always filling up. Otherwise excellent car. Also car has auto lock when you walk away plus Mazda app is free with remote auto start no subscription. Dear support is good 👍🏼
I miss when gas tanks where 20+ gallons
the fender frame is very nice in snowy areas like minnesota where salt and crap always kick up which can wear at the paint
Hello! you do a really good job in there! on my side I took 2021 Cx-30 FWD with 2.0 NA automatic transmission with the matrix led lights from Romania. price was 24.5K euros. Base model was around 22k euros and in comparation with his big brother cx-5 with a starting price from 25k euros (but very very base model 2.0 NA manual, without any fancy extra options like: color display, like automatic AC and other small details that cx-30 has). Indeed the space on the back is quite small, I would rather say it is enough for small teenager family. Personally we are only 2 and we have plenty of room in the front and in the trunk for baggages and other stuff. For me was quite impressing to find 2.0 aspirated engine. Here in Europe nowadays it is a rush among car manufactures and a continuous race on developing small engine sizes (3 cyl) supercharged which from my point of view is not reliable on long time ownership.(it is quite hard to buy a decent new car these times) so for me, personally was the best compromise to have my first ever owned car that I am thinking to keep it for a long time. I don't have too much experience with Asian market cars but since almost 2 years Mazda managed to change my mind about the quality of their cars and in the future when family grows we will look on bigger brothers cx-5 or cx-60 but depending on the deals on the dealership. On my case the configuration price was 28800Euros, luckily the car was in stock (2 weeks time to delivery from Belgium, i was aiming for the premium sound system but I was supposed to wait another year for my own configuration, so I have changed my mind and took the one from stock), it was with two tone interior (blue accent) and the color was blue (totally diferent than the one in my mind). So starting from that 28800, I got a generous discount from dealership plus another discount from the Romanian state, since the car was mild hybrid and total paid price was 24500euros, so for me was a deal at that time. Now I hope that I didn't did a wrong decision taking direct injection engine and classical torque convert transmission.
Some good points, but I picked the 30 over the 5 for a few reasons. Primary one is that it is a second car with my other car a slightly bigger SUV, so when I need the bigger cargo or back seat I have it. It is cheaper, more fun to drive, handles better, actually has a (very) slightly more powerful engine output, better gas mileage. For the "go to the store or Costco or weekend get away with 2 people" is fits the bill better for me. If I had to only have one vehicle, it may have been a tougher choice. That all said, the top-of the line CX-30 is pretty pricey and not sure there are not better choices as you pass $35K+, but in the
Yes you should, just got a 2023 cx 30 turbo premium plus love it , got everything you could ask for and more
Unusable back seat? I am 5’2 and the back seat is very usable. Handling is exceptional. More maneuverable than a CX 9. Interior is way better than a CX 5.
I agree for the most part. The CX-5 is a better buy for the majority of people. That being said, I did recommend the CX-30 for my mom. She has a single lane driveway and cannot go as large as a CX-5. She’s also not a great driver, so the small size and high clearance means she is far less likely to damage her car.
i can see alot of car reviewers/car enthusiasts not understanding the small cuv/suv segment. but as a 5'2 person myself, something like the cx-5 can be too big, and can be unsafe for my even short folks (below 5 ft). While there are downsides of this cuv segment, it can be a win to smaller people that also want a taller ride height. I own a mazda 3 myself, and i did test drive the cx-30 while shopping, but i felt the belt line was too high, and the windows are too small like you mentioned. it made me felt crushed and not safe. Fortunately at 5'2, the mazda 3 is just perfect for me, and I do like the better driving dynamics more.
You did the right thing: properly test driving all of them to find what was the best fit for you. Infact the cx30 is on the same platform as the M3 just higher.
@@IsaacLoven 👍correct
Great video, I think the cx30 was meant to be a higher vehicle than the mazda 3. However as you point out so well, it makes more sense to spend an extr 2k and get the 5.
My 2013 mazda 3 is so loud I can barely hear my radio. Glad to see mazda did something about it
Long time Toyota owner here, picked up a new CX5. Feels luxurious compared to all of the Toyotas I’ve owned. Nice getting quality and tech without spending the premium. New Mazda fan here.
I’m confused because he keeps mentioning the CX 50 but the CX 30 came out like 3 years before the CX 50. So really the CX 50 is based in the CX 30.
Also the CX 30 shares the same platform as a Mazda 3
you are confused
We purchased CX-30 and after 1 and half years, we are absolutely happy. I had opportunity to drive CX-5 for a month before we ordered CX-30, but didn’t like it. If I go for SUV, than CX-60😊
Here in Canada the difference between cx30 and cx5 base models is 4000, so option for CX30 might make sense for some people. Also, it's strange that you are having just 23 MPG. Some people claim to get 37 on a CX30.
The Mazda CX30 is a brilliant stylish car with excellent build quality and a nice friendly solid driving experience we have had our CX30 Sport for over a year and it has given us a trouble free driving experience Our CX30 has all the extras you need and more with adaptive cruse control driving in town is done with your thumb on the selection control on a long trip you have all the safety features to keep you safe and it soaks up the miles with ease We don't have children and the rear of the car is a little tight but a young family with toddlers will be fine You can truly have fun in a CX30 and even relax while you drive my wife and I would recommend a CX30 to anyone in fact all the Mazda range are quality and packed with tec Bear Hull UK
I commend your outstanding analysis and review, very thorough, truly professional, highly technical but still comprehensible to the average car buyer.
Thanks again for the honest assessment
This is the best review that I have found. Thanks (from Australia. And may He give you peace)
Mazda is either brave, bold, crazy, stubborn, wreckless or innovative. The way they use the same engine in their full size SUV, as they do in their smallest, is pretty wild.
Yes, Mazda Spent the time and money to develop one engine properly so it's bullet proof. They also have a 2 litre version/option in our countries like here in Australia
Hello. I want to thank you for your channel! You give wonderful reviews for the mechanically inclined and for those are looking for options and style. I pretty much agree with you on the CX-30 when I was car shopping. So I did by a 2024 CX-30 at the lowest trim level price point on the lot which was the Select S. The dealer really worked with me to get out of 2021 Honda Passport lease as lost all equity. I am not new to small cars as I've been a Honda owner for many years. I was considering the CX-5 however it was $4,000 + more due to the inflation. So I am in my 60s and single. I love this sporty CX 30!! I don't never think I'll go back to Honda. This car is so quiet comparatively and the ride smoother with few quirks upshifting. It's perfect for me and I'm 5'7". A friend of mine who is 5'9 sat up front and has two middle school children who fit perfectly in the backseat. Just have to adjust the front seats to accommodate others. I do agree getting out that back seat door can be a struggle for adults. In 3 weeks of owning it, my city mileage improved to 24mpg.. highway to 33mpg going 75-80mph. Not thrilled about the outer body design on any Mazda but i can live with it. I would like try a CX-50 maybe in the future of the CX-5 is no longer around.
PS... But I saw on the Mazda website that the CX-5 has 187 HP engine but the cx30 has a 191 HP... I am no mechanic.
I wish it actually *looked* like a mini CX-50
I drive a 2023 CX-5, normally aspirated, and I am very happy with it. However, I almost went with the CX-30. Yes, there are many similarities, and the quality of the drive and interior is likewise similar, but these two vehicles appeal to different circumstances. If I didn't need to occasionally take two passengers, I would have gone with the CX-30. It's a bit less expensive than the CX-5 (especially for what the car offers) and it's definitely a more spirited driving experience. For a single person, this is an ideal car. In fact, I only use the back seat once or twice a month. (When I need it, I NEED it!) However, if I didn't plan on using the backseat regularly, I would've happily chosen the CX-30.
Car Care Nut, your reviews are generally well-thought-out, and your mechanic's perspective (and honest appraisal) is very much appreciated. However, you're a family man, and you're intuitively looking at this from that perspective. (I've owned a couple of minivans; I know where you're coming from.) The CX-30, however, is obviously NOT intended as a family mover. Once this is acknowledged, it's clearly a very strong contender for the average single person (and the occasional passenger).
A couple of years ago, my wife and I went hunting for a Mazda. She had her sights on the CX-5. At the dealership, we both saw the CX-30. We both agreed that it looked quirky. It wasn't until that we both sat inside of the car, that it felt cramped with no good all round vision. She settled for the CX-5.
Mazda rotory dial is off at first but quickly became my favorite infotainment
I have a 2020 cx 30 select non turbo. Great car. I get 25 mpg around town and 29-32 on the highway. Only problem so far is a warning about some "internal communications error".. It is intermittent so next time to the dealer I'll have them look at it.. I hated the big black cladding so I had it painted to match the car. Good review btw, tnx.
Great idea to paint cladding. I googled images and it looks great!
@@dimzay and the cost to paint the cladding would be?
I love CX-30, just love it.
The CX-30 is made for single or double occupancy , I bought mine for my teenage daughter that will not have the option of having a car full of friends. I like the safety features the higher models offer and should be standard for the blind spots. CX-50 would be for a family of 4 but with the same engine its not worth the money.
Thank you for your review and opinion. Unfortunately too many touchy owners down in those comments who were just looking for validation but didn't get any
We love AMD, but this is the first review where he keeps comparing the orange (Mazda 3, CX-30, CX-50 built on the 3's platform with torsion bar rear suspension) with the apple of CX-5's independent suspension built on an older platform. Buyers of the CX-30 were looking at the Mazda 3 or Mazda 3 hatchback and other small compact SUVs, not the Mazda 5 (for the vast majority I think.). We also didn't care about car seats - maybe we just liked the zoom of the 3 with that great interior and features - I mostly put the rear seats down to expand my trunk space but 4 adults sit quite comfortable in the car as well AMD is usually spot on - but he's comparing the wrong fruit here.
I don't have a family. it is perfect for me. smaller size is a plus. I would probably always have the back seat folded down. I think of it as a raised hatchback with higher ground clearance that I can drive in all weather.
Just purchased CX 30 select..same color as this. Why the CX30? We're empty nesters, would've preferred the mx5 but lacks AWD, a backseat, and cargo capacity (kennel)....CX 30 is IMO one of the best looking suv out there, more of the classic 68 firebird ( my first car) less of the 2020s angular soon to be outdated typical suv appearance...the CX5 appears to have been an afterthought...ungainly, awkward appearance, somewhat heavier with same power train as the CX30....just test drive the 2 and tell me there's no reason to go lighter...OH and the lone CX50 on the lot was non turbo top premium trim....honestly I didn't see the value to justify the expense of the14k$ upcharge . CX 50 rode stiff but is the better looking of the 2. CX50 vs CX5..didn't have the acceleration of the lighter CX30..Turbo could tip the scale in favor of the CX50 but long term reliability the problem....
I chose the CX30 over the Miata for the same reasons. After 25 years of my beloved Mazda MX6, I now have a car with a backup camera, blindspot detection, etc - but it's still fun to drive. I have no interest in anything larger. Not only did I spend less, my registration and insurance premium will be lower forever.
Very good detailed review... However, a lot of what he has to say is based on his own preferences. Nothing wrong with that but the review is presented as though the things that are important to him are important to everyone.
Please try to be less personally biased. Overall very good review if you can listen with a grain of salt.
Why shoud people get the Mazda CX30 over the heavier and bigger CX50? the answer is simple: Either young people or not a big family customers! It is a fun car with a much better driving experience than the CX50 since it has kess weight while keeping the same engine! and this is a SUV( utility) to have fun specialy since the coupes are not selling well anymore at keast here in USA because they are less practical! In relation to the shape and apearance, the CR30 looks more rugged and sportier than the CX50.. Take a look on the strets when you are driving and most time you see only one or tow passengers on a car! if you are big and being in shape is not your thing, get a bigger car! if you are young eother chronologically or in spirit, have fun and get a beeter driving exoerience in the CX30 ! Just my opinion! I am having the CX30 in my list for now! And yes, I like the shape, the design and the size!
but in CX5 you get an independent suspension and better handling.
And I agree on format of a car - Volvo V40 croos country is good format but model is outdated
better handling in the CX-5? You must not have driven both.
The current CX-5 starts at $29,300. That's way more than the CX-30, which still starts at $22,950.
Over 17 months into my 2022 CX-30 ownership experience & not a single issue or problem to report with the vehicle yet. Not even a single token inside cabin rattle. Best vehicle in its size/price segment. I feel that Mazda has managed to overtake both Toyota or Honda with regards to building quality ICE vehicle these days, but then both of those have also backslid on build quality & attention to detail. Mazda could have done a better job on the cladding for this vehicle though, & the fact that they didn't also black-out the front/side chrome trim & silver roof rails on this vehicle is borderline criminal. 😉
Toyota owns part of Mazda.
@@dang75790 Yep, but they don't design & build them for Mazda, they just own shares in the company & have a "partnership" for sharing certain tech/research & such. Toyota also owns part of Subaru in the same manner. The upcoming US Mazda hybrids in 2025/2026 will use a Toyota engine & hybrid-EV system, however, from what I hear.
You would have to pay me at least $2k more to own a CX5! This smaller, sportier car is more fun to drive, easier to park, costs less to register and insure, gets better mileage, and did I mention that it's more fun to drive? The feel is as close to a sports car as I could find in this price range with safety features like blindspot detection.
I understand that you're a big car guy, which is fine, but there's no reason to question the rationality of all of us happy CX30 drivers. Viva la difference...
Great review as always but the point of this car is its an alternative to the Mazda 3 not the bigger Cx-5 but you are right why buy this and not the CX-5.I just bought a CX-5 Kuro in Canada its almost as good as a Lexus NX for about 15k less.
I'm age 67 and never had kids and most times I will be the only person in the car so the backseat size is not a problem. I have a 1997 Toyota Camry I purchased new and have never had anyone ride in my backseat and this will be the same for the Cx-30.
I'm 67.....in Toronto.
Mostly me and wife.
Love mine ,the cx5 was like driving a truck
We bought my wife a new 23 CX30, Select NA... It's up to 191 HP
WOW just WOW this was a great review especially since I'm thinking about purchasing the CX-30, CX-5 or the CX-50. Thanks fella.
i subscribed cause you blessed us at the end. i had a feeling your heart and head were in the right place, and the ending just confirmed it. bless your soul. very nice and honest review, thank you.
Does the Mazda engine have any Direct Injection Carbon build up problems? Keep up the great work AMD!!!
I’m on my 5th one. No issues so far.
I suppose every car with direct injection and without multi-point injection in an intake can have carbon problems - valve seals can leak with oil and crankcase ventilation gases can can build carbon too. The older a car - the more chance of it - a seal wears,hardens and leaks with more oil.
I love it! Drive the turbo and you'll forget about everything else.
I really would like to know your opinion on this,,,a 2022 cx30 manufactured in Japan, or a 2022 cx30 manufactured in Mexico, as far as quality and reliability, your honest opinion please
If you live in a city having the shorter car can make a difference.
I recently rented a 2024 CX30. It handled great, but the doors sounded hollow when you closed the doors......not a deal breaker.......it's just that I've driven other suvs that just sound substantial when the doors are closed. Again, not the end of the world, just something that took me by surprise. ALSO.......i live down a dirt road.......THIS car didn't handle the bumps on the road very well!!! Felt like i was driving on a washboard!!
The Lexus ones and others, agreed. But for this one I think the CX30. There are other factors besides space. And probably 95% of the time you use the car, you will not even be fully utilizing the space available in the 30, leave alone the 5. It's only that uncomfortable subconscious feeling of the rear suspension not being a multilink. Other than that, CX30 any day.
I have to disagree with you on the styling, The CX 30 is gorgeous!
I have honestly not heard this thing compared to the 50. What I have heard it compared to is the Hatchback 3 which undercuts its sales.
Im glad mazda is getting in the same level as toyota
And I am here impressed on how you managed to get 23mpg from cx30 lol
Brilliant analysis, and you beat others to the obvious comparison.
I can't thank you enough for your nice look at the bottom of the car...I would have included the location of the oil filter, but no complaints :)
I went one week ago to mazda showroom and i was impressed with interior quality and back seat space as i heard a lot of reviewers complaining about it , go check this car in person it looks really good outside and inside luxurious, and i think this car space more than enough for small family of 4
Yeah. I agree about the proportions.
CX-30 beats everything else in this segment: 2.5L baseline engine, 191HP, AWD, traditional automatic (no CVT), luxurious interior.
This review is nuts.
I don't know where you've been lately, but the mazda cx30 actually made his debut in ginevra 2019, the cx50 launched in Jan 22. It really annoyed me a lot when you compared to the cx50 every freaking 2 minutes. The mazda cx30 has got the exterior design from the actual mazda kodo design philosophy, so it's got nothing to do with mixing other mazda models, it's the other way around. I would strongly suggest you to check out at least wikipedia and mazda website before releasing any car review other than toyota and lexus.
It is not a family car , it is a great single senior citizen vehicle . I love it .
You spent a lot of time discussing why this is a bad buy. I think you should have thought about the use cases this car would be good for. We are retired, no kids or grand kids. This is a perfect second car for my wife who does not want the bigger CX-5. The small back seat is a non issue for us. A great city runner for groceries etc.
People forget that in the 90s this car would be slightly above average in size. I love the small windows. It makes me feel cozy, kinda like in a cocoon. I never feel like i need more room. I fit a 68” tv in here, a 7 cubic foot freezer and a leather recliner, not all at once of course. I prefer this to the cx5 because its MORE comfortable. You sit more upright in the cx5. The cx50 is also much more expensive and looks a bit weird. This car is perfect.