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Don’t let the Mazda CX-30 slip by. This sporty subcompact SUV may seem small, but it’s filled with big surprises. The 2022 Mazda CX-30 packs in more value than you expect, with some shocking pros and cons to consider. 

2022 Mazda CX-30 pros and cons

2022 Mazda CX-30 review
2022 Mazda CX-30 | Allison Barfield, MotorBiscuit

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 is worth buying if you’re looking for an affordable daily driver that’s well-equipped for adventuring. While other low-priced vehicles can seem a bit cheap, the CX-30 delivers a high-quality interior and an engaging experience. 

The CX-30 starts at $22,500 and includes standard all-wheel drive. You also get standard LED headlights, an 8.8-inch infotainment system, 16-inch alloy wheels, and tons of intelligent safety features. Check out what we’ve been learning during our week with the CX-30! 

PRO: The Mazda CX-30 is confident 

We’ve taken the 2022 Mazda CX-30 all over from country farmlands, busy downtown areas, and up twisty mountain roads. It delivers an impressive performance over a variety of road conditions. 

For example, during a massive thunderstorm on I-26, the CX-30 felt in control. Even with water on bridges and grooved pavement, the wheels didn’t slip, and the brakes provided quick stopping power without being grabby. 

We also took the CX-30 on some light off-roading trails with slippery wet gravel and mud. When you engage the Traction Control System, you can feel the suspension stiffen up for more control. 

You get more braking power and enhanced traction to clear obstacles. The tires didn’t slide around curves, and the brakes provided confident stops. You also don’t roll backward when starting up a steep incline. 

CON: The CX-30 is loud 

Out of every Mazda SUV we’ve tested, the CX-30 has the loudest interior. There is noticeable wind and tire noise inside the cabin at highway speeds. You may have to raise your voice to carry on a conversation. 

However, the premium Bose audio system covers the loud interior pretty well for an immersive experience. Also, the suspension is buttery smooth over most surfaces, even large dips, and potholes on gravel roads. 

PRO: The 2022 Mazda CX-30 has excellent headlights 

2022 Mazda CX-30 front view
2022 Mazda CX-30 | Allison Barfield, MotorBiscuit

With the 2022 Mazda CX-30, you can see everything! On dark roads, the LED lights provide an excellent amount of visibility around left and right curves. They also don’t produce much glare to prevent blinding other drivers. 

We are impressed by the automatic high beams. They instantly turn on when you enter long dark tunnels and switch to the lower setting when oncoming traffic approaches. The daytime running lights are attractive too. 

CON: The CX-30 has a small backseat 

One 2022 Mazda CX-30 drawback to consider includes the tiny backseat. There isn’t much room for passengers, and we would only put two adults in the rear. Taller adults will want more knee room. 

But the trunk space feels massive. There is more cargo space than expected for groceries, camping gear, or whatever you’re hauling. Perhaps the second row will be able to slide back in the future because we would give up some of that cargo space for more passenger room. 

We have a lot more to say about the CX-30, so stay tuned for more updates. Here is the full review!