2025 Mazda CX-30

MSRP: $25,195

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Overview

The 2025 Mazda CX-30 subcompact SUV slots between the Mazda 3 hatchback and the compact CX-5, at the entry point of the brand's SUV lineup. All eight trims ride on the Skyactiv platform and share the i-Activ AWD system as standard. Two 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G four-cylinder engines power the lineup, with a naturally aspirated unit across the five base trims, and a turbocharged version reserved for the upper three. The cabin boasts good material quality, with soft-touch surfaces and premium detailing that push the CX-30 toward the lower end of the luxury segment.

What's New for 2025?

The 2025 CX-30 carries over its structure unchanged, remaining part of the first generation introduced for 2020. Alexa built-in is now an option on Select Sport trims and above, enabling hands-free voice commands for climate control, media, and smart home devices. Mazda Online Navigation with live traffic data and over-the-air map update capability is now standard on the 2.5 S Premium and all Turbo trims.

All 2.5 Turbo models now receive a 10.25-inch touchscreen center display, up from the smaller screen previously in place. Aero Gray Metallic, a color shared with the MX-5 Miata, joins the optional paint palette for the first time, although it is available at $450 extra.

Exterior

The CX-30's low, wide profile is closer to a raised hatchback than a conventional crossover, attributed to Mazda's Kodo design language. A front fascia with a matte finish grille accompanies the base 2.5 S, while gloss-black trim takes over from the Preferred grade upward. The base trim runs gray metallic 16-inch alloy wheels, while Select Sport and above step up to 18-inch alloys in finishes that vary by trim, from black metallic on Carbon Edition to silver metallic on the Preferred. LED headlights and taillights are standard across all trims, with LED signature illumination headlights and taillights reserved for Premium grades and above.

Interior

The cabin is among the most convincing arguments for the CX-30 over its rivals. The base 2.5 S gets black cloth seating with manual adjustment, while the Select Sport upgrades to leatherette with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, dual-zone automatic climate control, and rear air-con vents. From the Preferred grade onward, the driver's seat gains eight-way power adjustability, lumbar support, and memory positioning.

Infotainment on naturally aspirated trims centers around an 8.8-inch display operated through a center-console commander knob to keep the driver's eyes on the road, but far behind modern touchscreens. Turbo trims, however, step up to a 10.25-inch display with touchscreen capability for CarPlay and Android Auto. Cargo volume behind the rear seats measures 20.2 cubic feet, expandable with rear-folding bench seats, though the seatbacks do not lie flat when folded.

Price Range and Best Value Trim

The 2025 Mazda CX-30 price range runs from the base 2.5 S to the range-topping 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus. The 2.5 S Select Sport is the best value, adding leatherette seats, dual-zone climate control, 18-inch wheels, heated mirrors, and Alexa Built-in for $1,655 over the base trim.

Key Specs

Powertrain

Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated MPG)

Dimensions

Warranty

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Standard AWD across all trims.
• 2.5-liter turbo engine produces 250 horsepower on 93-octane premium fuel.
• Cabin refinement across all trim levels exceeds comparably priced rivals.
• NHTSA awarded the CX-30 a 5-star overall safety rating.

Cons

• Cargo volume of 20.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats falls short of class rivals.
• Turbocharged trims fuel efficiency trails the Volkswagen Taos with comparable AWD performance.
• The six-speed automatic transmission can be slow to kick down under acceleration.

Verdict

The 2025 CX-30 makes its strongest case through driving dynamics and cabin quality rather than cargo space or fuel efficiency. Standard AWD without a price penalty is a genuine segment differentiator, and the turbocharged engine's 250-horsepower ceiling on premium fuel places the upper trims in a higher performance league. The commander knob infotainment setup on naturally aspirated trims remains the most consistent criticism the CX-30 attracts, and the 2025 updates do not address it. But for those who want the turbocharged powertrain's performance and updated infotainment, should budget for the 2.5 Carbon Turbo at $33,140, where those additions are most directly justified.

Competitors

• Honda HR-V
• Hyundai Kona
• Subaru Crosstrek
• Chevrolet Trailblazer
• Volkswagen Taos

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This story was originally published June 10, 2026 at 8:13 AM.