It’s ok to judge the Mazda CX-30 by its cover because it’s an attractive SUV. However, it has a lot more advantages below the surface that you need to know about. The 2023 Mazda CX-30 is a premium contender in the segment with plenty of value. 

2023 Mazda CX-30: What’s new?

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 remains mostly unchanged for the year, but the 2.5-liter four-cylinder base engine got a slight power boost. It features 196 hp, which is up from 186 hp. It still has 186 lb-ft of torque. 

Plus, the EPA-estimated fuel economy increased from 24 mpg in the city and up to 31 mpg on the highway to 26 mpg in the city and up to 33 mpg on the highway. 

During our week with the turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with up to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque, these figures seemed spot on. 

Other than that, the CX-30 has been pretty much the same since it was introduced back in 2020. Only the tech is starting to age. It still provides a high-quality, premium experience at an affordable price. 

1. The 2023 CX-30 is comfortable 

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 provides a relaxing ride for daily commutes, errands, and road trips. The suspension is engineered to create an engaging yet smooth performance, and larger impacts are quickly settled. 

Sound-damping materials keep wind and road noise at bay for a quiet interior. Some wind and road noise is noticeable at highway speeds, but the radio covers it well. Plus, you don’t need to raise your voice to carry a conversation. 

The dual-zone climate control system rarely needs to be adjusted, and there are rear vents for passengers in the back seat. The front seats are supportive and plush for longer drives, but the rear cushion can seem flat until it breaks in. 

You’ll find that the rear seats are well-padded with a relaxed backrest angle. However, leg space is a little tight for passengers taller than 5’3”. There’s an abundance of head space to enjoy, though. 

2. The Mazda CX-30 has more cargo space than expected 

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 could be more practical than you think. The rear cargo hold is bigger than it looks from the outside, and the seats fold flat to create a level cargo floor. You can access up to 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 45.2 cubes overall. 

A convenient tray is in front of the deep center console, and the glove box is helpful. The door pockets can hold a water bottle and one other smaller item. However, the seat pockets feel limited. 

The vehicle is wide enough for two adults to sit comfortably in each row. Plus, the door openings are wide to make installing child seats easy. Rear-facing child seats might be snug. The rear hatch is also wide with a low lift-over height. 

3. The CX-30 is fun 

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 has a reputation for being the SUV for people who enjoy driving, and this isn’t wrong. The sport-tuned suspension, six-speed automatic transmission, and steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters deliver an unmatched athletic experience. 

Both engines have above-average power for the class, and the turbo helps the CX-30 accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds. Edmunds shared that it’s the fastest SUV in the class. Plus, the steering is responsive with tight handling. 

The tires provide plenty of grip for cornering and a sense of the road conditions so you can confidently calculate your next maneuver. Plus, AWD is standard across the lineup. It feels very stable and safe in heavy rain and snow. But it can be slow to downshift, and the brakes could be stronger. 

4. The Mazda CX-30 is easy 

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 is simple and intuitive. Its tight turning radius makes it perfect for tight city areas. The reverse camera and parking sensors are accurate without being too sensitive, and there’s an available 360-degree display. 

You’ll find remote start on the keyfob with a power liftgate, so the rear hatch can be opened as you cross the parking lot. It automatically closes as well. Adjusting personal settings on the infotainment system, head-up display, and digital gauge cluster is straightforward. 

The navigation system is smart and effective for avoiding traffic jams. Plus, it provides server weather warnings, so you won’t be surprised if you get caught in sudden springtime tornado-like conditions. 

5. The 2023 CX-30 is safe 

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 is incredibly safe and intelligent. The LED headlights quickly respond to changing light conditions, and it feels well-[lanted on slippery road conditions. 

Standard safety features include forward collision mitigation with pedestrian detection, drowsy driver detection, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beam assist. 

The optional head-up display provides blind spot monitoring and indicates when it’s unsafe to change lanes. The traffic sign reader makes it clear when you’re above the speed limit or in a school zone, and the adaptive headlights swivel around turns. 

While the CX-30 could use a midcycle refresh to provide updated tech, it’s still one of the best options in its class. It’s comfortable, sporty, spacious, intuitive, and safe. Stay tuned for our full-length review for more information.