What made you go with the Subaru? I like the looks of the Mazda, the materials, and traditional automatic. The Crosstrek has higher ground clearance and more rear seat room, but I wish it had rear vents.
Not sure if anyone cares but if you guys are stoned like me during the covid times you can stream all of the latest series on instaflixxer. Been binge watching with my girlfriend for the last couple of weeks :)
Style vs function. If you want the best driver experience, go with the Mazda CX series. More power off the line and cornering feel. Need more function as in hauling more gear, pets, family, better bad weather driving, better 360 degree visibility, go with the Crosstrek. Half the crosstreks around my area typically have mounted roof racks for carrying bikes, kayaks, snow boards, gear pods, and other outdoor endeavors. Mazda CX's are the driver's car. Subarus are the "get the job done" vehicles.
Not really , if you want more reliable vehicle (non CVT plagued) , much nicer and better build interior , AWD to be more preventive instead of reactive AWD , if you like better LED headlights , of course handling on road is also better in CX30, better sound system and premium like control knob instead off smeary and destructive touch screen also pick CX30.... Wonder what is cargo space difference , if Subbie is any better there?
@@kdomster9141 Driven both for more than a month, cx30 is more sporty with 6 speed auto plus stiffer tune suspension, how ever its cheap torsion beam rear does feel sluggish when cornering. Its interior looks elegant , for the cost of way less visibility and cramped rear seats, even less cargo room than mazda3 hatch. The cx30 dimensions are identical to mazda3 so its really a car not a cuv (only2cm more ground clearance). Crosstrek is way more practical, better gas mileage , comfier seats and suspension, eyesight is a better safety system +cruise system, capable for easy offroad trail (8.7inch clearance w xmode awd) , higher resale value, no report shown about cvt problem for any sgp platform Subarus. I know its all pros and cons but overall Mazda = better look, but Subaru = better drive.
@@shunzhang838 Subbies softer more mushy suspension can be called "better" only when driven on rough roads or off road conditions where soft maybe more forgiving. On normal asphalt road Mazda feel much more controllable and precise. Torsion beam rear does very good job and only place it could get upset would be a constant slalom race over rough road ... it really does not happen in real life conditions. Changing lanes , braking while turning , higher speed 80mph+ is where CX30 feels well sorted and complaint. Engine and tranny feel much more refined on CX30 and cabin design fit and finish are also top notch on CX30. Subbie is still a cheap , somewhat reliable (if CVT allows) but looks and feels primitive after drrving CX30.
The Crosstrek aftermarket can provide winchmounts, a rear locker, skids, rockers, intake spacers, cotton airfilter, turbo, MT/AT tires for 15" rims, exhaust, adjustable coilovers, adjustable anti-swaybars, and hidden 2" receiver hitch...among many other things. My 2.slo/CVT 2016 Crosstrek can also average 40+MPG by setting the cruise near the speed limit. Stock for stock, the Mazda might be a better choice, but if you plan to customize much, the Crosstrek probably takes it by a mile.
If you drive only over asphalt, yes the CX-30 is a better choice: it is more powerful and likely more agile. But if you plan to do any off-road driving, the Subaru's full-time AWD system is far better than the part-time Haldex system in the AWD CX-30, never mind the front wheel drive. The Crosstrek is the second best car for winter driving here in Canada: the Subaru Forester is first
Jorge Neves even asphalt can be tricky to drive on especially when it rains after a long drive period that has built up oil and grit on road surfaces. Subaru's AWD gives good feedback through the steering wheel. Point it where you want it to go and you'll confidently get there.
I own a 2018 Subaru XV (Crosstrek's name here in Australia). Though very similar to the 2020 model, the XV is not an 'off road' car - it is a bad road car.
We have driven and like Mazdas. They might look good, and the CX30 gets good reviews, but would not swap it for our Subaru XV! The off road and winter driving ability of the XV is far superior, and on long trips with motorway speed limits, once up to cruising speed what does the extra acceleration power do? When town driving there is enough power in the XV, and the only guys that leave us behind are those out looking for speeding tickets. After 25k miles in under 2 years the XV feels like it will go for ever, and always feels safe. It's made this old guy enjoy driving again. Love it!
Yeah and Subaru will rip you off paying thousands more for a package with the Forester engine. The 2.5 liter won't help much with the CVT. They wont offer it with the lower trim manual transmission.
@@vs8580 whats wrong why you crying?? your Mazda leaves you stuck in the mud with a shit resale value?? awwwww ... btw CVT is the future...Subie makes their own this isnt Jatco crap.
If your looking for a Japanese vehicle made in Japan, buy the Crosstrek. If your looking for a Japanese vehicle made in Mexico, buy the CX 30. I'll take the Subaru.
Just be prepared for suspension costs and replacements on the Mazda. Also, notice how many old Mazda's you see compared to old Subaru models. Very few Mazdas, LOTS of old Subarus
The Mazda’s vastly better in pretty much every way. Interior and exterior design. Interior quality and fit and finish, sound insulation and road noise, sound system, power, transmission, handling, ride quality and refinement, reliability, and value. The only thing I see better about the Subaru is the AWD system and more ground clearance, and a little bit more room inside.
@@mrgarrison3516 The fact is the majority of the people will never use the full capability of the crosstreck or even the CX30. The .8 more ground clearance and AWD system do not make that much of a difference. The CX30 AWD system is actually very good off road.
It was hard to understand what the narrator said about the Mazdas safety rating. I don't like CVT and the Mazda has lots of pep. I was going with Subaru but now I'll check out the Mazda.
All I care about is will it fit in my garage? My 2015 Mazda3 hatchback is just small enough to fit in my garage. I’m looking at another hatchback with AWD because I’m doing the commute across country roads and I don’t want an suv.
Take a look at the Subaru Impreza hatchback - has a full-time AWD which works a lot better than Mazda's part-time AWD, and is otherwise mechanically identical to the Crosstrek.
Before anything subaru is the winner. But please don’t compare a hybrid version (subaru) with a non hybrid (Mazda) I know the hybrid and non hybrid crosstrek are not much different, but there are few exterior characteristics and interior design that are not the same to each other.
2 wheel drive for the Mazda saves fuel and reduces maintenance. Walmart now sells plastic traction mats you put on the ground and long plastic zip ties for the drive tires if you might get stuck. Test driving the CX-5 and Crosstrek, the CX-5 steered better and had more power coming out of a stoplight, and the transmission feels better. The Crosstrek had better braking feel. The midlevel CX-5 Touring had more features. For the CX-30, I would wait until Consumer Reports has enough owners survey results to add to their April car issue, that I read for free at a library.
Yes, with the premium pkg. Although there are some things that I'm critical of (the over-done cladding comes to mind), the ride quality and agility of this vehicle is terrific.
@@jhaupt47 Yes that Black plastic cladding should be only offered on off road Edition of CX30 not on street driven CX30 . I do not like or see logic in it .
I’m in the market for a new vehicle. And these are the 2 I’m looking at. I think the Mazda looks better, and may even drive better. I would like 1 question answered: Which one will last longer???? I can’t imagine the answer would be the Mazda. I’ve had 3 Mazda’s - none got over 150,000 miles before falling apart.
The Subaru boxer engine is reportedly bullet proof, as long as you change the head gasket around 100k miles. Also listed in consumer reports as the cheapest to own over five years.
Mazda has significantly stepped up their game since splitting from Ford in 2013. Both 2.0L and 2.5L mazda engines have been bulletproof, there were few issues with transmissions around 2014-2015 but they got sorted out. I have had my 2015 mazda 6 for 5 years, 80,000 miles and only thing I had to replace was front brakes at 60k miles. I have towed 2000lb trailer across a few states a few times when I was moving and that is why front brakes had to be replaced, rotors overheated and slightly deformed.
The only negative of the Crosstrek is the jerky CVT. I hope it gets a more refined trans for 2021. I own an '18 and will most likely get the 2021 with more power once it's available. I just can't give up the extra ground clearance (Canadian winter) and better fuel economy and go with the Mazda, which I admit has a nicer, albeit more crammed, interior. In the looks department they're pretty even, imo, the cx30 could do with less of that plastic cladding.
Hi Will, I own a 2017 XV (Crosstrek) new Gen and have the CVT Tranny. I tow a camper trailer sometimes and normal city driving. The CVT shouldn't be jerky. Mine is seamless even when towing and uphills so I suggest you take it to your dealer for a check.
The 2019 and 2020 both have a significant bog between 2-3k rpm and it's a widespread issue. It's bad enough that the car will feel like the brake is being applied while cruising at 60mph on the freeway especially with the manual transmission. Google this issue and read how many people complain of this issue. You'll see The auto has occasional shuddering when accelerating gently in traffic from 1-2k rpm. I've driven both The Subaru dealerships have only been giving me run arounds saying their techs didn't find any codes therefore no problems. No proper diagnosis or fix. Having owned a Subaru since 2012, Crosstrek being my second, I'm never buying another new Subaru ever. Considering a trade in for the mazda at this point. Only 8k miles on the crosstrek, what a shame.
My CX-30 arrives in a few weeks. Trading in the Crosstrek Touring. Bearings gave out at 40,000KM and brakes are almost worn out. My front shocks are also leaking. The interior is creaking and the road noise is ridiculous.
None of these reviews mention range. The Subie has a 16 gal. fuel capacity, and the cx30 doesn't hold 13 gal. My '17 crosstrek gets 29 mpg avg, I doubt the cx30 will on avg. None the less, I may get a cx30 because I'm not sure I want two of the same cars in the driveway.
If I'm spending $40K on a new SUV the 1st thing I want to see is a pleasing appearance, in the case of the CX-30, the eyes are purposefully drawn into the massive plastic cladding. Call it what you will, paint protection, stone chip protection, off road protection, or just a massive miscalculation from the Mazda design dept.
My 6 foot tall son fits in the back while I'm driving (same height). If you're like 6 foot 2 or something it might be an issue if someone just as tall is in the back, too. It's not a car for really tall people, but not many small cars are except for the Rondo (that car kind of sucks, though).
Like the CX-30 a lot, but the non-touch infotainment system is a huge negative. I think real world pricing will be a lot higher than the Crosstrek too, at least until the hype over the CX-30 dies down and supply outpaces demand.
He’s talking about the Crosstrek. My mom has a 2012 Subaru Forester. Oil consumption is ridiculous. She had the block replaced under warranty because of the burning oil. Even after replacing the block. Still burns oil. Don’t get me wrong Subaru are great cars but Subaru needs to focus on these issues and listen to the consumer more.
I made test drives with both models. Finally, I decided to go for the Subaru, it is a very cool and good car... I am loving it.
What made you go with the Subaru? I like the looks of the Mazda, the materials, and traditional automatic. The Crosstrek has higher ground clearance and more rear seat room, but I wish it had rear vents.
If I had to go off road or soft road often, I'd def choose the Subaru. If i spent most of my time commuting and highway stuff? The Mazda
Not sure if anyone cares but if you guys are stoned like me during the covid times you can stream all of the latest series on instaflixxer. Been binge watching with my girlfriend for the last couple of weeks :)
@Bennett Dylan Definitely, I've been watching on instaflixxer for since november myself :)
I own a Crosstrek(XV in Australia 🇦🇺) and have absolutely no issues with the power or the performance of my car.
Style vs function. If you want the best driver experience, go with the Mazda CX series. More power off the line and cornering feel. Need more function as in hauling more gear, pets, family, better bad weather driving, better 360 degree visibility, go with the Crosstrek. Half the crosstreks around my area typically have mounted roof racks for carrying bikes, kayaks, snow boards, gear pods, and other outdoor endeavors. Mazda CX's are the driver's car. Subarus are the "get the job done" vehicles.
Not really , if you want more reliable vehicle (non CVT plagued) , much nicer and better build interior , AWD to be more preventive instead of reactive AWD , if you like better LED headlights , of course handling on road is also better in CX30, better sound system and premium like control knob instead off smeary and destructive touch screen also pick CX30.... Wonder what is cargo space difference , if Subbie is any better there?
@@kdomster9141 k, go away now
@@drunksquirrel2051 Can't take the truth? Mazda is a much more reliable, better designed and build vehicle....
@@kdomster9141 Driven both for more than a month, cx30 is more sporty with 6 speed auto plus stiffer tune suspension, how ever its cheap torsion beam rear does feel sluggish when cornering. Its interior looks elegant , for the cost of way less visibility and cramped rear seats, even less cargo room than mazda3 hatch. The cx30 dimensions are identical to mazda3 so its really a car not a cuv (only2cm more ground clearance). Crosstrek is way more practical, better gas mileage , comfier seats and suspension, eyesight is a better safety system +cruise system, capable for easy offroad trail (8.7inch clearance w xmode awd) , higher resale value, no report shown about cvt problem for any sgp platform Subarus. I know its all pros and cons but overall Mazda = better look, but Subaru = better drive.
@@shunzhang838 Subbies softer more mushy suspension can be called "better" only when driven on rough roads or off road conditions where soft maybe more forgiving.
On normal asphalt road Mazda feel much more controllable and precise.
Torsion beam rear does very good job and only place it could get upset would be a constant slalom race over rough road ... it really does not happen in real life conditions.
Changing lanes , braking while turning , higher speed 80mph+ is where CX30 feels well sorted and complaint. Engine and tranny feel much more refined on CX30 and cabin design fit and finish are also top notch on CX30.
Subbie is still a cheap , somewhat reliable (if CVT allows) but looks and feels primitive after drrving CX30.
The Crosstrek aftermarket can provide winchmounts, a rear locker, skids, rockers, intake spacers, cotton airfilter, turbo, MT/AT tires for 15" rims, exhaust, adjustable coilovers, adjustable anti-swaybars, and hidden 2" receiver hitch...among many other things. My 2.slo/CVT 2016 Crosstrek can also average 40+MPG by setting the cruise near the speed limit.
Stock for stock, the Mazda might be a better choice, but if you plan to customize much, the Crosstrek probably takes it by a mile.
If you drive only over asphalt, yes the CX-30 is a better choice: it is more powerful and likely more agile. But if you plan to do any off-road driving, the Subaru's full-time AWD system is far better than the part-time Haldex system in the AWD CX-30, never mind the front wheel drive. The Crosstrek is the second best car for winter driving here in Canada: the Subaru Forester is first
Jorge Neves even asphalt can be tricky to drive on especially when it rains after a long drive period that has built up oil and grit on road surfaces. Subaru's AWD gives good feedback through the steering wheel. Point it where you want it to go and you'll confidently get there.
The engine of CX30 got already a lot of problems in France....
I own a 2018 Subaru XV (Crosstrek's name here in Australia). Though very similar to the 2020 model, the XV is not an 'off road' car - it is a bad road car.
We have driven and like Mazdas. They might look good, and the CX30 gets good reviews, but would not swap it for our Subaru XV! The off road and winter driving ability of the XV is far superior, and on long trips with motorway speed limits, once up to cruising speed what does the extra acceleration power do? When town driving there is enough power in the XV, and the only guys that leave us behind are those out looking for speeding tickets. After 25k miles in under 2 years the XV feels like it will go for ever, and always feels safe. It's made this old guy enjoy driving again. Love it!
I agree. Mazda CX 30 a good value.
I thank mazda for making this car, it prompted Subaru to up the trek game and I'll be getting the 2021 with more power :)
Yeah and Subaru will rip you off paying thousands more for a package with the Forester engine. The 2.5 liter won't help much with the CVT. They wont offer it with the lower trim manual transmission.
@@vs8580 whats wrong why you crying?? your Mazda leaves you stuck in the mud with a shit resale value?? awwwww ... btw CVT is the future...Subie makes their own this isnt Jatco crap.
If your looking for a Japanese vehicle made in Japan, buy the Crosstrek. If your looking for a Japanese vehicle made in Mexico, buy the CX 30. I'll take the Subaru.
Mazda is made in Japan. Only the ones sold in usa are built in Mexico.
Just be prepared for suspension costs and replacements on the Mazda.
Also, notice how many old Mazda's you see compared to old Subaru models. Very few Mazdas, LOTS of old Subarus
The Mazda’s vastly better in pretty much every way. Interior and exterior design. Interior quality and fit and finish, sound insulation and road noise, sound system, power, transmission, handling, ride quality and refinement, reliability, and value.
The only thing I see better about the Subaru is the AWD system and more ground clearance, and a little bit more room inside.
...and the AWD and ground clearance are the main 2 things that crosstrek buyers want, it's a niche market 👍
@@mrgarrison3516 The fact is the majority of the people will never use the full capability of the crosstreck or even the CX30. The .8 more ground clearance and AWD system do not make that much of a difference. The CX30 AWD system is actually very good off road.
The Crossdress is slightly better on gas
@@Innocence44 and resale value will smoke the Mazda.
How will cx-30 do going up Utah mountain? AWD
The mazda is beuty,while the subaru is way more spacious,safer,and more robust.
Raymond Hachmishvili The Mazda is better built, with better materials. It is the better vehicle.
It was hard to understand what the narrator said about the Mazdas safety rating. I don't like CVT and the Mazda has lots of pep.
I was going with Subaru but now I'll check out the Mazda.
All I care about is will it fit in my garage? My 2015 Mazda3 hatchback is just small enough to fit in my garage. I’m looking at another hatchback with AWD because I’m doing the commute across country roads and I don’t want an suv.
Just bought a cx 30, and while it does fit in my garage --- it's tight.
Take a look at the Subaru Impreza hatchback - has a full-time AWD which works a lot better than Mazda's part-time AWD, and is otherwise mechanically identical to the Crosstrek.
Get Impreza hatchback ! A baby crosstrek
why not just get the 2020 Mazda 3 hatch AWD?
@@AdAce21 part time awd.....
Before anything subaru is the winner. But please don’t compare a hybrid version (subaru) with a non hybrid (Mazda) I know the hybrid and non hybrid crosstrek are not much different, but there are few exterior characteristics and interior design that are not the same to each other.
Of course I prefer CX 30 the most safety car tested by euro NCAP
2 wheel drive for the Mazda saves fuel and reduces maintenance. Walmart now sells plastic traction mats you put on the ground and long plastic zip ties for the drive tires if you might get stuck. Test driving the CX-5 and Crosstrek, the CX-5 steered better and had more power coming out of a stoplight, and the transmission feels better. The Crosstrek had better braking feel. The midlevel CX-5 Touring had more features. For the CX-30, I would wait until Consumer Reports has enough owners survey results to add to their April car issue, that I read for free at a library.
Subaru wins just through the fact you can get the Crosstrek in a manual (probably have to order it though, none on lots...they sell ASAP).
Subbie is cheap and CVT plagued , CX30 feels premium , drives premium, better power , handling , real transmission , superb sound system.... quieter, just build better
Just bought a cx 30 --- and I agree with all your remarks!
@@jhaupt47 thanks , did you get AWD version ?
Yes, with the premium pkg. Although there are some things that I'm critical of (the over-done cladding comes to mind), the ride quality and agility of this vehicle is terrific.
@@jhaupt47 Yes that Black plastic cladding should be only offered on off road Edition of CX30 not on street driven CX30 . I do not like or see logic in it .
Dont forget to mention it is way smaller and cramped
I’m in the market for a new vehicle. And these are the 2 I’m looking at. I think the Mazda looks better, and may even drive better. I would like 1 question answered: Which one will last longer???? I can’t imagine the answer would be the Mazda. I’ve had 3 Mazda’s - none got over 150,000 miles before falling apart.
The Subaru boxer engine is reportedly bullet proof, as long as you change the head gasket around 100k miles. Also listed in consumer reports as the cheapest to own over five years.
Public transport for you 'cause that never breaks.
Mazda has significantly stepped up their game since splitting from Ford in 2013. Both 2.0L and 2.5L mazda engines have been bulletproof, there were few issues with transmissions around 2014-2015 but they got sorted out. I have had my 2015 mazda 6 for 5 years, 80,000 miles and only thing I had to replace was front brakes at 60k miles. I have towed 2000lb trailer across a few states a few times when I was moving and that is why front brakes had to be replaced, rotors overheated and slightly deformed.
The only negative of the Crosstrek is the jerky CVT. I hope it gets a more refined trans for 2021. I own an '18 and will most likely get the 2021 with more power once it's available. I just can't give up the extra ground clearance (Canadian winter) and better fuel economy and go with the Mazda, which I admit has a nicer, albeit more crammed, interior. In the looks department they're pretty even, imo, the cx30 could do with less of that plastic cladding.
Hi Will, I own a 2017 XV (Crosstrek) new Gen and have the CVT Tranny. I tow a camper trailer sometimes and normal city driving. The CVT shouldn't be jerky. Mine is seamless even when towing and uphills so I suggest you take it to your dealer for a check.
The 2019 and 2020 both have a significant bog between 2-3k rpm and it's a widespread issue. It's bad enough that the car will feel like the brake is being applied while cruising at 60mph on the freeway especially with the manual transmission. Google this issue and read how many people complain of this issue. You'll see
The auto has occasional shuddering when accelerating gently in traffic from 1-2k rpm. I've driven both
The Subaru dealerships have only been giving me run arounds saying their techs didn't find any codes therefore no problems. No proper diagnosis or fix. Having owned a Subaru since 2012, Crosstrek being my second, I'm never buying another new Subaru ever.
Considering a trade in for the mazda at this point. Only 8k miles on the crosstrek, what a shame.
killerboy631 just traded in the 2019 crosstrek due to continuous transmission issues. Excited to experience the Mazda CX-30
My CX-30 arrives in a few weeks. Trading in the Crosstrek Touring. Bearings gave out at 40,000KM and brakes are almost worn out. My front shocks are also leaking. The interior is creaking and the road noise is ridiculous.
cx30 is expensive here in malaysia by usd10k....
If somone has to drive thru rocky river or rough off road they may pick Subbie.... all others Mazda
Mazda all the way
None of these reviews mention range. The Subie has a 16 gal. fuel capacity, and the cx30 doesn't hold 13 gal. My '17 crosstrek gets 29 mpg avg, I doubt the cx30 will on avg. None the less, I may get a cx30 because I'm not sure I want two of the same cars in the driveway.
You mention the CX-30 has heated steering wheel but I cannot find this option anywhere.
Only heated on models outside of the US.
If I'm spending $40K on a new SUV the 1st thing I want to see is a pleasing appearance, in the case of the CX-30, the eyes are purposefully drawn into the massive plastic cladding. Call it what you will, paint protection, stone chip protection, off road protection, or just a massive miscalculation from the Mazda design dept.
Visibility is poor because of the C-Pillar and rear legroom is terrible in the Mazda Cx-30.
My 6 foot tall son fits in the back while I'm driving (same height). If you're like 6 foot 2 or something it might be an issue if someone just as tall is in the back, too. It's not a car for really tall people, but not many small cars are except for the Rondo (that car kind of sucks, though).
Like the CX-30 a lot, but the non-touch infotainment system is a huge negative. I think real world pricing will be a lot higher than the Crosstrek too, at least until the hype over the CX-30 dies down and supply outpaces demand.
Mazda is better.
yikes, fix the sound...
Yes, it was really bad!
Very nice comparaison
Subaru all day everyday🤙🏻🤙🏻🤙🏻🤙🏻
20 percent black cladding on that Mazda. Ugly.
I want a manual transmission, so I would take the Crosstrek. Also, all Mazdas have push button start, and that is a dealbreaker.
Huh? Push button start is awesome.
@@matsudakodo Agree. I haven't had to take my key out of my pocket since I drove off the dealer's lot. Best thing ever.
Cvt + high oil consumption every 3000 miles =fail
I have a 2019 Impreza. Never add oil between 6,000 mile changes. In fact, the oil level barely moves down from full.
He’s talking about the Crosstrek. My mom has a 2012 Subaru Forester. Oil consumption is ridiculous. She had the block replaced under warranty because of the burning oil. Even after replacing the block. Still burns oil. Don’t get me wrong Subaru are great cars but Subaru needs to focus on these issues and listen to the consumer more.
No oil burning issues with my '18. I thought this was a thing of the past for subaru
@@faultless18 . 2017 Crosstrek no oil use in 3 years ownership
@@faultless18 crosstrek is exactly the same as the Impreza mechanically, just lifted and had plastic cladding
Cx-30 😍
Crosstrek 🤢
Subaru cut will fail. Google on it