The 2021 Mazda CX-30’s storage space is one of its only downsides. It’s a Consumer Reports-recommended subcompact SUV, but it might not serve you well if you plan on using it for road trips, or you regularly shop at wholesale clubs. Despite its low storage space, the CX-30 has a solid road test score, as well as a perfect reliability rating and an excellent owner satisfaction score. 

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 has minimal storage space

In Consumer Reports road test, they noted that the 2021 Mazda CX-30 feels “cramped.” Not only does it have small rear seats, but there’s not a whole lot of storage space, either. The trunk and cargo space scores only a 1/5, with just 21.5 cubic feet of storage space.

Consumer Reports determines the amount of luggage or cargo space a vehicle has. The storage space is calculated by how much space there is in the trunk up to the rear window opening. Compare this to the Subaru CX-30 or Honda HR-V, both with 27.5 cubic feet, and it’s clear the CX-30 is great if you buy your groceries at a farmer’s market, but maybe not if you shop at Costco.

Despite its lack of storage space, the Mazda CX-30 has a solid road test rating and lots of safety equipment

Consumer Reports gives the 2021 Mazda CX-30 a 64 for its overall road test score. This includes a good 3/5 for its acceleration. It can reach 0 to 60 in 8.7 seconds. Its transmission scores a 4/5. Routine and emergency handling both receive a very good 4/5. The Mazda CX-30’s max avoidance speed is 54 mph. The Mazda CX-30 gets a perfect 4/5 for its braking. It can brake from 60 mph on dry pavement in 133 feet and 147 feet on wet pavement. The CX-30’s headlights only score a 3/5.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 comes standard with a decent amount of safety features. Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking for the city and highway, lane-keeping assistance, lane departure warning, and pedestrian detection are all standard in the 2021 Mazda CX-30. So are a rearview camera, anti-lock brakes, traction control, stability control, and daytime running lights. 

Optional are blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning. 

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 has excellent reliability and owner satisfaction

Consumer Reports gives the 2021 Mazda CX-30 a perfect 5/5 for its predicted reliability. The 2020 also had an excellent reliability rating, with just the power equipment noted as less-than-perfect.

The CX-30 gets an excellent predicted owner satisfaction score, at a 4/5. The driving experience gets an 87, while comfort gets a 78. Styling gets an 87, and value is a 65. 75% of people would buy the CX-30 again.

If you know what you’re going to get with a subcompact SUV, and 21.5 cubic feet of storage space is adequate, then the 2021 Mazda CX-30 may still be a great choice for you. Having the Consumer Reports recommended badge is a huge selling point. Its combined road test, reliability rating and owner satisfaction score make it an overall strong SUV.