Adulting is hard. The most difficult part for me, particularly when I became a parent, was trading in my fun wheels for something safe, efficient, and practical (read boring). But have no fear. A low-key solution is here. I just drove Mazda’s turbo-charged CX-30, and it’s the undercover lover you’ve been waiting for.
The Hook
On the surface, the CX-30 is a reasonable vehicle. It’s a compact crossover that looks good, gets solid mileage, and comes with that Mazda pedigree that ensures it will be a driver’s car. But here’s the thing—(she leans in closer)—it’s TURBO-CHARGED.
The Engine
Under the hood, the CX-30 Turbo Premium Plus sports a 2.5L turbocharged engine that produces 250 hp and 320 ft lb of torque. Sure, those don’t sound like Lambo numbers, but this is a “family-friendly” crossover. It seats five and can do your mini Costco run in a flash. All-wheel drive is standard in all trims. Plus, the standard safety system is great. The cameras, however, leave a little bit to be desired; see below.
The Design
On the exterior, the 2024 Mazda CX-30 is a great example of Mazda’s modern design language—clean, simple, and way more sophisticated than anyone anticipated from this traditional Japanese automaker. The CX-30 is the sportier version of the Mazda 3 hatch, so you’ll notice a few durable touches to the vehicle’s exterior (plastic-trimmed wheel wells, etc.). But this doesn’t mean that you should drive the Rubicon trail in this little nugget of goodness. But it’ll get up your neighbor’s steep, poorly paved driveway without a second thought.
The Interior
Again, this is a **compact** crossover, so don’t hop in expecting tremendous legroom and the ability to pack in the pickleball team. No, it’s small and efficient, making it even more delicious in the drive. But if you’re looking for ample space, check out its big brother, the CX-50:
Sure, But How Does The CX-30 Drive?
Ok, here’s why the 2024 Mazda CX-30 is such a great little secret–because it’s so much fun. Pop this thing into Sport Mode, and it tightens up like Mitch McConnell’s butt cheeks at a Pride Rally. It’s tremendous. Then push that shifter to the left, and bingo! Manual mode is here to save you from your daily drudgery. Is it as satisfying as its little sister, the MX-5? Not exactly. Is it close? Oh, hell yeah.
The CX-30 Verdict
With a starting price of only $26,415, the Mazda CX-30 is nothing short of a winning proposition. Of course, adding the turbo-charged engine pushes this little baby’s price up quickly, but it is still very much worth every penny. Compared to the VW Taos or even the BMW X1, the value clearly falls in Mazda’s favor.
But if you’re still stuck on an MX-5, read this. You’ll like it.