While Mazda is often praised for its sporty MX-5 Miata and sophisticated Mazda3 sedan, this brand continues to step up its SUV game. The Mazda CX-3 and CX-30 are some of the most popular and affordable options on the road. Of course, with names so similar, it’s easy to see how shoppers might get these two vehicles confused. Read on to learn some of the major differences between the Mazda CX-3 and the Mazda CX-30.
Does Size Matter?
The various name designations Mazda gives its lineup often denote the vehicle’s size. The Mazda CX-3 fits into the subcompact class. It’s perfect for drivers who want to traverse through the city. The small cabin doesn’t feel cramped, with 41.7 inches of legroom up front.
The CX-30 is slightly larger. It fits right between the smaller CX-3 and the massive CX-5. While the CX-30 has more interior cargo space and legroom in the rear, it offers the same amount of legroom up front.
What’s Under the Hood?
Both the Mazda CX-3 and CX-30 only come with a single-engine option. The CX-3 is loaded with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 148 hp and 146 lb-ft of torque. The standard six-speed automatic transmission sends power to the front wheels unless you opt for the available all-wheel-drive option.
The Mazda CX-30 comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 186 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque. This middle-size SUV shares an engine with the quick Mazda3. The SUV version only needs 7.8 seconds to go from zero to 60 mph, which isn’t bad for a vehicle this size.
Safety Counts
Mazda has a reputation for focusing on safety in all of its vehicles. The Mazda CX-3 earned the IIHS’s Top Safety Pick+ award, the highest honor a car can earn. The CX-30 didn’t earn the same results, but it did earn the Top Safety Pick title.
You’ll find that both vehicles come with plenty of standard and available driver-assist features you crave from a modern SUV.
Value and Price Range
The truth is that most of your friends and neighbors will think that you spend way more on your Mazda SUV than you actually did. Both the CX-3 and CX-30 offer tremendous value. The Mazda CX-3 starts with an MSRP of $21,965 and comes with plenty of standard gear like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and a seven-inch touchscreen. The CX-3 was discontinued after its 2021 model year, which only came in the sport trim. You can still find plenty of used and certified pre-owned versions of this fun SUV today.
The Mazda CX-30 starts with an MSRP of $23,725 and comes in a variety of trims. If you go with the 2.5 Turbo or Turbo Trim trims, you get access to the powerful 2.4-liter turbocharged engine that makes 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. You can also choose a trim with the tech you desire, like a navigation system, 12-speaker Bose sound system, keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, and more.
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