You might assume that with a bigger, faster engine, an SUV might end up being more dangerous to drive. And it makes sense, really. From the compact to the larger sized models, the boxy nature of the crossover might not be all that suited for performance and speed.

Having the capability to go faster might sound like a less than safe proposition. But Mazda stepped in and challenged that theory. The Mazda CX-30 brings all the “zoom-zoom” excitement Mazda is known for and even more. The 2021 Mazda CX-30 not only gets a turbo variation, but it’s also getting extras that make this crossover actually safer to drive.

A walk-around of the 2021 Mazda CX-30

One walk around the impressive 2021 Mazda CX-30, and you might be ready to buy. U.S. News ranks it number two in its class, based on an 8.2 score out of 10.

Its sleek style is matched with an upscale interior and an expansive cargo area. Driving the Mazda CX-30 is exciting and fun, in true Mazda fashion, with lively handling.

New this year, according to Edmunds, Apple and Android connectivity are standard, adding to an already robust list of amenities and extras.

Meet the turbo Mazda CX-30 trim you didn’t know you needed

The Mazda CX-30 is already peppy and even a little exhilarating. Take four of your favorite people along in the S, Select, Preferred, or Premium trims. But even more thrilling might be the 2.5 S Turbo, 2.5 S Turbo Premium, and the 2.5 S Turbo Premium Plus variations.

The turbocharged engine gives the Mazda CX-30 even more pizzazz with its 2.5-liter engine harnessing 227 horses. All-wheel drive comes standard, and Car and Driver clocked the Mazda CX-30 with a zero to 60 time of 8.1 seconds in its road test.

The highest turbo treatment adds even more driver aids. In a way, the turbocharged variation is almost a safer vehicle with front and rear parking sensors, rear cross-traffic alerts, and a surround-view camera platform.

It comes with Traffic Jam Assist as well, which offers an enhanced adaptive cruise and lane-keeping assist at speeds below 40 mph. And just in case you misread the traffic signs, your Mazda CX-30 Turbo has traffic sign recognition, too.

A robust menu of all-things safety 

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 is already a safe ride. The NHTSA gave the subcompact SUV an overall five-star rating in front and side crashes. You can expect the standard roster of driver assistance extras to include forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and rain-sensing wipers.

Every CX-30 comes with a rearview camera, auto emergency braking, and driver attention monitoring, as well. Mazda was clearly not fooling around when it came to safety.

Could the 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo be a safer ride?

Is it possible for a subcompact SUV to get a more powerful engine and be safer at the same time? Mazda says it sure can.

The 2.5-liter turbocharged engine brings the energy, but it doesn’t mean you’ll be unsafe when you’re tapping that gas pedal. This subcompact crossover is getting a safety boost across the board. And with or without the turbo trim, the latest model is certainly safer.

When it comes to the 2021 Mazda CX-30, you’ll likely feel as if you’re having your cake and eating it, too. Enjoy an already fun crossover with a turbocharged boost under the hood.

But don’t feel bad or as if your need for performance means you’re willing to compromise on safety. The Mazda CX-30 will bring all the safety equipment and driver assistance technology you need to be protected behind the wheel. It may just be the best of both fun and practical worlds in one stylish and affordable SUV.