The 2021 Mazda CX-30 is the automaker’s compact crossover that’s large enough for a family of five, but small enough to fit in just about any garage or parking space. And considering it’s available with an all-wheel-drivetrain, the CX-30 is the perfect answer for anyone that’s looking for the capabilities of a Subaru, but with a more upscale appeal.

I’ve been driving the 2021 CX-30 in the Premium Plus trim level, which is the highest variation that you can opt for. It’s nice, but is it really worth paying over $34,000 for?

There are a few different Mazda CX-30 variations to choose from

For the 2021 model year, the Mazda CX-30 comes in four basic trim levels: 2.5 S, Select, Preferred, and Premium. But if you want more power than the 186-hp 2.5-liter, four-cylinder can give you, then you can opt for the new-for-2021 turbocharged 2.5-liter engine. That powertrain pushes out 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque (on 91 octane) and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

When you choose that engine, you’ll have the added benefit of opting for the top-trim Premium Plus package as well, but we’ll cover that trim level later.

The CX-30 comes well-equipped from the get-go

Choosing the base 2.5 S version of the 2021 CX-30, which starts at $22,050, gives you LED exterior lighting, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, keyless entry and ignition, cloth seats, an 8.8-inch infotainment screen, Bluetooth, Apple Carplay/Android Auto, and an eight-speaker audio system.

Stepping up to the Select trim level for $2,000 more will give you blind-spot monitoring and rear traffic alert, 18-inch wheels, and dual-zone climate control. While the Preferred trim will add more luxuries like a panoramic roof and heated/powered front seats.

For another $2,250, you can opt for the Premium package, which mainly adds a leather interior, a power tailgate, and an adaptive front lighting system. But if you really want to go big, then you can get the aforementioned turbocharged engine that opens the CX-30 up to even more options.

What else does the turbocharged Mazda CX-30 come with?

With a starting price of $30,050, the Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo comes with radar cruise control and black alloy wheels in addition to the more-potent engine. Step up to the Premium trim with that engine and you’ll also get leather seats and a premium Bose sound system with 12 speakers.

If you really want to pull out all of the stops, then you can aim high for the CX-30 Premium Plus trim level, which adds the stronger engine, all of the aforementioned features on the other trims, and a 360-degree surround-view camera. When it’s all said, you would be looking at a starting price of $34,050 for the Premium Plus package, which is $4,000 higher than the base 2.5 Turbo and a whopping $12,000 more than the base 2.5 S model.

Is it really worth stepping up to the Premium Plus trim?

In the time that I’ve spent with the 2021 Mazda CX-30 Premium Plus so far, I have felt like I’ve been driving a luxury car. From the supple leather seats, soft-touch materials, and tech-savvy features to the heavy pull of the turbocharged engine when I bury the throttle, the CX-30 has not failed to impress me in any way.

And while the pricing structure might seem a little off and there is admittedly a huge jump between the lowest and highest trim levels, I can honestly say that it’s worth it to get the Premium Plus trim. There’s no doubt that paying somewhere in the mid-$30,000 range for a Mazda sounds a little ludicrous, but considering how smooth and capable this opulent CX-30 is, I’d say it’s worth the extra cash.