ONLY MAZDA TRULY UNDERSTAND HOW TO MAKE CARS FUN-TO-DRIVE - MAZDA CX-30 IS AN EVIDENCE OF THAT FACT

Among the Japanese automakers, perhaps only Mazda truly understand how to design fun-to-drive cars - just look at the 2024 Mazda CX-30 as an example. In terms of handling, steering feel, driving character, cornering, and ride, the Mazda CX-30 stands out among many other small crossovers. Other brands may offer practical SUVs but they can't compete with Mazda when it comes to creating true sporty vehicles. David goes over why that is the case with the Mazda CX-30.
Automotive Press is owned and managed by David Koichi Chao, a global expert in the field of automotive evaluation, engineering, and strategy. With over 35 years of engineering experience, David is able to review vehicles from unique perspectives utilizing technical and specialized methods. David is a board member and a director at AJAC (Automobile Journalist Association of Canada).
David is known around the world as an authentic specialist of Lean/Agile Thinking, and travels all around the world to review vehicles and teach latest engineering methods. Born and raised in Japan, David has an engineering degree from University of British Columbia and post-graduate education from MIT and Harvard Business School in Boston.

[@visionaryvisuals1029]

I have my 21 CX-30 with about 100k with no issues, absolutely love this car. Only thing i wish it had is a bigger gas tank😅

[@carmencajayon937]

Get a PHEV Plug-in CX-35 That would cut down your mpg/ l/100km = to 4l/100 then you don't need that big of the Gas Tank = Reserved for Battery Pack 🔋 🔋 ☺ ☺ C'est La Vie. haha...

[@Gregory-Masovutch]

Unless there is a 6 speed gearbox, I can't see any if these cars to drive without road engagement except for the MX5

[@mdshonkkc]

I recently traded in my Mazda3 for a CX-30. I feared I would lose driving satisfaction moving to a crossover, but the driving dynamics are so good and very similar to my old car. I'm in love!

[@swishy4mbg]

What year & model/trim did you have & get? How does it compare? I have ‘19 Mazda 3 I ended up buying out the lease. Now I have a new young driver & I’m not confident the 3 is a great fit for her being short, inexperienced & the 3 having very poor visibility.

[@spike378]

It's the same chassis, that's why

[@garysmith1966]

Good to hear, I went from a 2016 Mazda 3 to a CX-3 (not CX-30) as we needed something higher, I realise the CX-30 is the Mazda 2 platform but I was disappointed as the 3 was so planted, I will try the CX-30 when we change cars.

[@robertwilliam9558]

Always great to watch when David reviews Mazda vehicles.

[@ondrea5451]

Awesome review! I’m buying my CX-30 today and this made me even more excited 🎉❤

[@nighthawkvc25a]

1:07 - Very glad you point out that pronunciation difference for those that don't know 🙂

[@rickmay4261]

I purchased the CX-30 Turbo Carbon and agree with everything you said. It really is a fun car to drive, even on long trips.

[@ALEZANDAR]

This car has been criticized for its small trunk space and tight passenger interior by just about every car critic. I am 5'10'' and has absolutely no issues with that! the ride feel is very refined, comfortable, responsive, and I feel very safe driving it. Worth every penny; after four months driving my 2024 Mazda CX30 base model, I have no buyer's regret after purchasing it. Absolutely love it!!!

[@thelookingway5390]

Just test drove the CX30 this weekend and fit just fine being 6'5".

[@thomasmeisch5692]

Same as above large guy 6'4"240 lb, I love the way when sitting in this car it just surrounds you great comfortable have taken it from Michigan to Florida three times now other than changing the crappy Bridgestone that came on it to michelin's which greatly improved the handling and ride quality this vehicle has been great right out ofthe box love it. Trip to the Tennessee mountains was phenomenal to the twisty roads really showed me how awesome handling this vehicle is on and off roads

[@robertkovacic4623]

When we were in Greece for 10 days last year, I had a rent-a-car Kia Stonic for the whole vacation... and when I sat behind the wheel of my 2022 CX-5 2,5 AT AWD for the first time after the vacation, I thought that the steering wheel was "broken"😲... but after a few kilometers, a smile on my face again😃

[@arcturusme2630]

yup, I too end up smiling.(and chuckle)

[@70diezel]

Mazda is definitely fun to drive. So different from Toyota or any other Japanese brands. I am waiting to see Mazda new RX7. Such a fun car to drive

[@jeanfidalgo3923]

"I've watched this video twice now, and I completely understand your point of view. I've owned a CX-30 exclusive for a year now, which is the highest version for the European market. The car has absolutely all the equipment. It's powered by the e-Skyactiv X 2L engine without a turbo. I'm posting this message to support what's being said in the video; this car is fantastic. Perfect for my family life, and equally perfect when I'm alone and want to drive with a more dynamic spirit. In Europe,Mazda is underrepresented, and that's a real shame. I honestly think Mazda has nothing to envy from German brands in the same segment. In a way, I'm an outlier in Europe driving a car from this excellent brand. It's my first Mazda, and it won't be my last. Speaking of Japanese factories versus Mexican ones, mine is Japanese and yet it still has a significant assembly flaw. One of the doors isn't assembled quite right; there's at least half a centimeter of gap between the door and the car's structure. But concerning everything else, it's a great pleasure every time I get into this car."

[@blueaxe27]

Loved the review! I am a Mazda fan for all the reasons you mentioned about driving dynamics. Just bought a CX50 last month. I love it. It’s my 3rd Mazda.

[@xsej4223]

Great review as always! Thanks david. Keep it up!

[@PH-md8xp]

For the most part, BMW knows a thing or two about driving dynamics as well.

[@Minusroot8]

2024 CX-5 is the old school suv that fits the bill for me! Naturally aspirated and no cvt!

[@ciello___8307]

This has no cvt too!

[@ChicagoRob2]

My wife loves her CX-5 so much, I have to beg her to drive it. The car gets a crazy 38mpg on the highway, which far exceeds its rating. Tip: use Pennzoil Ultra Platinum. The car loves this oil - great fuel economy and zero valvetrain noise.

[@paulm2467]

My lovely red 2019 CX5 was built in Japan, it still looks fabulous, drives perfectly and I’ve had zero issues. People worry about the size of the trunk but it’s easily large enough for most people’s needs, it’s way bigger than the same size saloon or hatchback. I’d much rather have the real thing than a Mexican built version, no matter how well it seems to be built.

[@carmencajayon937]

We owned the two STI 505 and Turbo 505 Peugeot 1987 (Cost 40k CAD then); and never found any Japanese nor GM/Ford Car/Sedan would have matched the Suspensions and Cornering ... Only Bimmer M series 540 would be close to... That Quality... But Peugeot and/or Citroën lost that Quality of the 1970-1980 QA/QC and Design-wise.

[@robert-rl4ud]

Had a 2008 Mazda Speed3. LOVED IT!!!! I have 2022 CX-30 Turbo, It's a better driving experience than the MS3!!! Smile every time I drive it!!

[@rockyl3130]

Looking forward to you cx70 review!!

[@Cletus_the_Elder]

I absolutely agree. The driving experience feels integrated. The responsiveness is excellent and well-suited for daily driving. Even a naturally aspirated 4-cylinder gives all the power a driver needs in city and highway driving. One huge plus: Mazda isn't constantly changing exterior design, so that a model from 4 or 5 years ago doesn't feel ancient on the road.

[@lilth501]

I recently purchased a 2024 Mazda cx-3 firstly the fit and finish of the vehicle is excellent, the stiffness of the of the chassis and wonderful handling of this vehicle. Confidence inspiring on the open highway . I'm more than happy with my purchase.

[@stedye]

Enjoyed your review immensely. I had opportunity to test the CX 30 Turbo for 30 minutes solo yesterday and it definitely elicits a huge smile on your face and joy in the heart driving it !

[@Nel33147]

No turbos for me thanks !

[@stedye]

@@Nel33147just curious why No turbo ? Do you have the normally aspirated model ?

[@november9err]

Sold ! Thanxz heaps for the review.

[@hoangvu220]

No one has the ability to "translate" what Mazda builds into how a driver feels when driving a Mazda. Kudos to you. So there is actually a science to what the company does in all its details that makes me feel so confident when driving a Mazda, any Mazda. From a Miata MX5 to a hunking SUV, no other competitor vehicle can bring a smile to your face except when behing a Mazda. Jinba ittai indeed!

[@markcharlesworth2528]

I've just bought one , here in the UK. It's my first Mazda and I'm coming from a Ford kuga . There's two reasons I've chosen a cx 30. Mazda reputation for quality & reliability. Secondly, the Soul Crystal Red colour. It's the first petrol car I've had for year's , and apart from having to climb down into it. I'm sure I will grow to love it.

[@rolexr]

Wow....Jackie Chan makes car reviews - that´s awesome!!! Btw...I´m waiting for my CX-30 which has to come within the next 3 weeks !!! Drove a Crosstrek since the last 4 years and I´m so curious about the Mazda!

[@TheBig1dea]

Even without the turbo, the base 2.5L engine is still bigger than pretty much every other vehicle in the segment.

[@stedye]

Do you find it having ample power for safe merging onto entrance ramps and switching lanes ?

[@TheBig1dea]

@@stedye Yes, for sure.

[@stedye]

@@TheBig1dea thanks for confirming!

[@local56]

I own the CX30 2.0 GT Sport SkyactivX AWD Auto and absolutely love it, the best car I've ever owned. The steering is wonderfully balanced and the ride although a bit stiffer than some is very communicative. I get a genuine 50mpg average on a road trip and between 30 and 40mpg around town. The safety features make you feel very secure and the Ncap scores are out of this world. The interior is without doubt the best in class by a fair margin. The only negative I can think of is rear leg room, if you have small children you will be fine, if you have 6ft plus teenagers not so fine but hey they'll be leaving home soon so no worries 👍

[@jean-louislonne7033]

Excellent review. Till now I limited my watching of car reviews to Tom Voelk. Your reviews are now added!

[@Tigerroux]

I like the fact they don’t use a CVT transmission. My test driving several others many years ago made me choose Mazda. Their interiors are luxurious too. They are fun to drive compared to others.

[@oralpowers7932]

Brilliant review, agree the GT model should be purchased with the turbo but the base model is so much cheaper. The CX-5 hybrid should be released in 2026 but I don't think the CX-30 hybrid will make it's appearance anytime soon unfortunately.

[@rthompson938]

Had a 2009 Mazda 6 gen 2 model 2.2 Diesel sport it is still on the road today, we now own a 2018 Mazda 6 sportnav+ it is a fabulous car that has given trouble free motoring so far.

[@elsaandnoah]

I don’t own a Mazda but I agree and understand what you’re talking about, Dave. I’ve test driven CX5 & CX50 back to back, and it’s pure joy & fun driving the CX5 ❤ I haven’t tried the CX30 though. I actually want a CX5 but I also want a Subaru Outback Wilderness when I want to float over all the bumps & potholes. Yea, one of each, please 😅

[@phiwanhlengethwa3874]

I like this review.

[@JBM425]

I rented a Mazda CX-5 when I visited Florida last year and loved it! The only bad part was it had the standard 2.5L engine; when I put the car in Sport mode, it seemed like the engine over-revved with no appreciable power boost. I look forward to trying a CX-5 or CX-50 with the turbo 4 that would have a legitimate kick when needed.

[@thongan48]

Would love to hear your opinions on Miata mx5. Thanks

[@Bostonharborwater]

I have a 2019 tundra. The wife a 2015 Corolla. Both have been near flawless. The boy is about to get his license and will be getting the Corolla. (RIP COROLLA). lol. So later in the year she’ll be getting a new car. The reviews are incredible on the CX5 and for the price , it looks like a no brainer. Wel see. Thanks for the video.

[@wendykrumm9867]

I did test drive one, I agree. Getting one soon

[@devildog5354]

You can get fairly well equiped CX-30s in the States in the low $30s. One of the few vehicles I would consider purchasing new. Looks better than the competition too, both inside and out IMO...

[@mohammedosman88]

Can you please review the CX-50 ? - thank you!

[@winnipeg97ful]

I love my cx50 turbo! Sooo cool! 😊

[@bellini2535]

Definitely think so

[@actionshootingsports8830]

I was very interested in the cx70, but do to the questionable comments about it, I went with a Subaru Outback touring xt. What’s your opinion on the Subaru Outback, couldn’t find anything on your website.

[@emran1906]

David you just did 1 review of mitsubishi outlander with rav4. Mitsubishi outlander is made in Japan I wish you dig little more on mitsubishi review in off road and other road conditions.

[@friscodog]

I still miss the MX-5 Miata I drove for several years in grad school. Now I have a family, so I'm not able to have a Miata as my only car as I was back in my 20s. So the Mazda crossovers are almost certainly the only ones I'll be looking at, to see which one feels best to me and my family. I will also take a good look at the Mazda 3 sedan, because I still prefer a smaller car, but I'm afraid my wife really wants a little bigger car.

[@ChicagoRob2]

Don’t have a CX-30, but I do have a CX-5, which is a great car. I wish Mazda still made the 6, which is a phenomenal vehicle. I own a ‘17 Camry and, to be honest, the Mazda 6 is superior in every way(and I’m a Camry fanboy).

[@aussie8114]

I love driving my 2023 CX5 turbo. Some reviewers say the steering is a bit heavy but I don’t agree at all.

[@kickyadick]

We are easily used to it 😊

[@rightlanehog3151]

David, I would like to see Mazda produce a new generation of Mercury Tracer. 😉

[@Unchainedmaple888]

I really want a Spirit Racing CX-30 or a hybrid CX-30 made in Alabama with the same hybrid system as the Corolla Cross. The CX-50 in the same plant uses the CX-30 platform anyways

[@dealman3312]

How does the driving feedback feel compared to CX3? Hope mazder has taken care of their rust issues, I’m not sure about that

[@starzba6291]

I have a 4 year old 2020 cx30. It's been reliable, so far just had to replace the battery 2 years ago.

[@particularspam]

David is right. If you love the CX-30 driving experience, I dare you to try the Mazda 3 hatchback, 🏆. It's awesome!!

[@dystopia-usa]

I'm happy with my 2022 CX-30 Carbon Edition (non-turbo 2.5L), but wouldn't buy a newer one because Mazda added cylinder-deactivation back to it with model year 2023+ (on the non-turbo models) - & no way to disable it (temporarily or 24/7). Really not interested in buying any vehicle with start/stop, cylinder-deactivation, or turbo engine tech, nor any vehicle with belt/chain design CVT for that matter (which I'm glad Mazda has resisted adopting unlike most other automakers)

[@corchem]

I 100% agree, I have a TURBO=2023 CX-30 so none of that bullshit! I LOVE IT!

[@arcturusme2630]

The best and the only advice you need is this: JUST TEST DRIVE IT!!! At least that how I decided to get this car. This car was my weekend rental car. Every time I drive it, it makes me smile. Now, if you have girly arms, just get a Toyota.

[@almericswitzercalonge5961]

Me and my son had cx3 as daily cars,, we like it much the power from a 2 liter 6 spd tranny is adequate,, but when the new honda crv and hrv was available in the market we think of me getting the crv and he the hrv, then we test drove it comparing to cx5 and cx30,,,mazda is way better so we had traded our cx3’s to cx5 and cx 30…now we enjoy driving our new suv and crossover , we do borrowing eachothers car anyway😁😁🤗

[@dannyphamous]

All current mazda drive really well

[@jimmy5634]

We just bought a 2024 CX 5. It is everything he says when it comes to driving fun. We test drove the Kia Sportage, the CRV, the Hyundai Kona, the Rav 4 and none of them gave us that fun. We also own a Kia Sorento and the road feel is non-existent by comparison. The ride is firm and definitely not for everyone. It’s a trade-off.

[@hwan5033]

I purchased a cx5 One day earlier

[@hellolau]

The seating position in the Mazda CX-30 is way too low.

[@ciello___8307]

I dont know david. I thought the steering in the 3/ cx30 was lifeless. But then again, i do drive an old mx-5 so any new car will feel numb in comparison

[@jayp4114]

Seems like I have to fill up my CX-30 every 10 days, with it's little gas tank. It drives wonderfully, but I guess the CX-30 is considered "roomy" in the UK.

[@allanzylbert1306]

I have a CX30 and get 27 MPG combined I had a long HWY trip and actually got 33MPG so I've been surprised in a good way. Front interior room is excellent, back is tight so I understand when people mention that part. Love the car and it drives great

[@alanwilliams8531]

If they would add ventilated seats and a modest to rating for a trailer, this would definitely be my choice

[@eleanormassaro5195]

I really like the looks of the CX 30 but I’m afraid it’s a little bit too small for me cargo-wise and just like you say, no choice of ventilated seats even on the top trim. I did buy a CX 50 in December 2022, and I’m very happy with it!

[@E.H-ww6zb]

I've had a cx-30, cx-50, civics, the new Integra, alfa Romeo stelvio, wrangler, wrx. every other car was fun to drive. the Mazda's just had the heaviest steering, which I like, but were disastrously slow

[@swishy4mbg]

I’d love Mazda to have something equivalent to toyotas new turbo hybrid engine. Going from low 20’s mpg to low 40’s would be game changing for them.

[@wiwatchguy8798]

As I understand it, Mazda is developing a hybrid engine with Toyota technology. Not sure if it’s a turbo, but I would imagine it would be. I’m guessing it’ll be out in about 2 years. I’ll enjoy my CX-30 turbo for a few more years, but I definitely want to get a hybrid version.

[@djsangre]

I owned a previous generation Mazda 3 and it was awesome, fun to drive even going slow. I wanted to upgrade to the newer model but the only dealer in my area was a dumbass who treated me bad so I got a Lexus instead. A phenomenal car, probably better than the Mazda, but I miss that fun the Mazda had even going slow.

[@diydrivenGA]

They do, unfortunately they chose to develop a turbo 4 and not a performance oriented hybrid powertain. Theh would have given Toyota and Honda a better run for their money

[@ebidbay3711]

Does CX50 or CX8(7)0 have the same feeling? Thanks.

[@PietyOFpaxson]

I have owned a Pontiac Grand Prix for 25 years and kinda saved it back because it is so fun to drive I didn’t want to waist it to and from work. Anyway, it’s getting old. After research I ended up buying a CX50 a year ago because I wanted the hatch and some room, some ground clearance, AWD, no CVT, dependability, and not sacrifice the sporty drive I have in the Grand Prix. Even though this is a tall order, my naturally aspirated CX50 is amazing. I test drove the turbo and it is more impressive, but decided against all of the bells and whistles, expense, and extra maintenance that come with it. Hope this helps.

[@typeg3756]

Im curious if the CX 50 would be the same.

[@eleanormassaro5195]

The CX 50 is a heavier and larger vehicle, of course. But it still has the same torsion beam rear suspension like the CX 30. I bought a CX50 in December 2022, and I love it!

[@joebrito2066]

Mazda needs to bring back RX-7

[@Wayneman50]

Love to drive my 2023 cx-30 premium turbo. The handling is why i really like this car. BUT, one thing i absolutely hate is the seat comfort. Mazda does a shitty job with their seats. It is also evident on the cx-5. From what i understand from talking to many car specialty upholstery guys is the seat pan in these vehicles is too high and the foam from the edge of the pan to where you sit, especially the thigh area is too thin. Thus, causing the pan to dig into your thigh. This could be a easy fix by mazda but they continue ti ignore their customer complaints.

[@blakespower]

how can it even be classifies as a crossover looks like a car to me, like a Raised Mazda 3 Hatch with 4 side doors, maybe a cross between a Sedan and Hatch Mazda 3 but taller lol

[@billyalexander7302]

I have a 2023 Honda HRV. I was rear ended and while it was getting repaired, I had a Mazda cx30 for a rental. I immediately noticed how much sportier the Mazda drove! I just like how my Honda has more interior room that’s it.

[@Dryloch]

CX50 is really good for next time you upgrade.

[@sammyt3514]

While I do appreciate sporty handling and feelsome steering, they are not priorities for me when buying a car in this category. My top priority for a daily commuter like this is good ride quality (and reliability, of course, but that's a moot point since Mazdas are reliable); I don't want my body to be constantly beaten up on the pothole riddled roads where I live just to enjoy fleeting moments of driving bliss in the 3-4 turns I take in my daily commute. I've rented Mazdas before (though not the CX-30) and have always found them to be very well built with high quality interiors for their class, but also stiff riding with a darty steering that feels like it would send you to the next lane over on the highway if you sneezed! I'm much more comfortable driving Toyotas on my daily commute; I'd leave Mazdas for track days only.

[@wiwatchguy8798]

I use my CX-30 as a daily commuter and find it a quite comfortable ride. Also, it’s notably quieter than other cars from what I can tell. My father just purchased a brand new RAV4 hybrid and despite the hybrid engine it’s notably louder on the freeway than my CX-30. And that’s just one way in which the RAV4 doesn’t stack up in my opinion.

[@sammyt3514]

​@@wiwatchguy8798 'Comfortable' is relative; you may have a higher tolerance for firm ride than the average person. Having said that, I didn't ride in the CX-30 specifically so I don't know how it compares to other Mazdas I tried in and found too stiff riding for my taste (including the Mazda 3, which the CX-30 is based on, incidentally). Every review I've seen, however, highlights the stiff ride of the CX-30, which makes sense to me since with its markedly higher ground clearance than the already stiff Mazda 3, physics dictates that its suspension needs to be even stiffer in order to provide the sporty(ish) handling Mazdas are known for. As for how quiet Mazda is vs Toyota, it's irrelevant since that's not the point I was making. It's worth mentioning, though, that the slightly more agricultural engine sound of modern Toyotas that have the 2.0L/2.5L 4-cylinder engines is a byproduct of those engines having both direct and port fuel injection, which pays dividends in terms of the engine's lengivity/reliability/maintenance cost, as opposed to direct injection only engines (like those in Mazdas), which need periodic treatments to remove the carbon build up on the valves which would otherwise gunk up the engine. That's a trade off I'm perfectly happy with.

[@wiwatchguy8798]

​@@sammyt3514 Comfortable is indeed relative, as is “firm”. You may hve less a tolerance for a “firm” ride than the average person. I personally prefer a firmer seat to a “soft” seat because I find it more comfortable. I’d say most spine doctors would say a firmer seat is better for your spine than a softer seat. Speaking of which, I spent about 3 hours in my father’s Rav4 over the weekend and I found the seats notably less comfortable than my CX30. Also, I’d rather be driving a car that leans more firm than loose as I definitely feel more in control of the vehicle. I’d say how quiet a vehicle is definitely has relevance when you’re discussing ride quality. And the difference in noise isn’t slight when you’re in the vehicle. Quite a notable difference I find. As for the engines, Mazda’s reliability as you noted in your first post is well documented. And with regards to carbon build up, there are plenty of testimonies online that talk about Mazda’s well into the 100,000 mile range that haven’t had a single issue with regards to carbon build up. Prevention with proper maintenance isn’t that costly either. And that’s all assuming you have the vehicle long enough for that to be an issue assuming it is. That’s not to mention JD Power and Consumer Report’s ratings. Honestly, I’d say you’re overstating the case.

[@sammyt3514]

@@wiwatchguy8798 Parroting what I said is a flimsy argument, especially since the 'average person' thinks the Mazda CX-30's ride is too firm per the majority of the reviews that are all over youtube/the internet as I mentioned, so the reverse logic doesn't work as you seem to think. Along those lines, my neighbors recently bought a Subaru Forester (hers) and a Mazda CX-5 (his) and he says he regrets not getting a Forester for himself as well since he really enjoys its ride quality compared to his Mazda. Your analogy between a firm ride and a firm seat is hilarious; implying that a firm ride must be good for your back since a firm seat is makes no sense whatsoever I'm afraid. Grasping at straws much? And whether you find a seat comfortable or not depends much on your anatomy; I drove the current RAV4 extensively (rented it for a week on a trip) and its seats were perfectly comfortable for me. As for longevity/reliability, Mazdas are indeed decent in this regard as I said, but Toyota's engine technology means they are even better and less costly to maintain (the carbon build up prevention maintenance you must do for the Mazda may not be 'that costly', but it still costs more than the $0 you'd pay if you get a Toyota that doesn't need that maintenance), especially for people like myself who keep their cars for 10+ years. I've said what I needed to say about this topic and I'm entering the beating a dead horse territory; we'll have to agree to disagree.

[@wiwatchguy8798]

​@@sammyt3514 I’d love to see all the reviews on KZbin and all over the internet saying the CX-30 is “too” firm. Since you brought up KZbin though, I’ll actually cite specific reviewers such as Joe Raiti, Doug DeMuro and Andrea from Motormouth, all of whom literally are giddy driving the CX-30 in their respective reviews. As for your neighbors, so what? My own parents have debated my father’s hastiness to buy another RAV4 rather than shopping the competition. And I’ve read plenty of comments about people who sold their Subaru, Toyota, etc to go back and get the Mazda equivalent. As for the ride and the seats, I mentioned the seats simply because they play a large part in the overall ride feel. And as I noted, the seats in my parents’ respective RAV4s aren’t nearly as comfortable as mine. As for overall ride though, plenty of things factor into that. Tires, tire pressure, suspension, etc. Even the roads you claim to drive, which are full of potholes per you. In my experience the ride quality of the CX-30 is planted and generally considered one of the most spirited drives in its class. I drive generally very good roads and the majority of my driving is on the freeway. My CX-30 is not only a comfortable and relaxing drive, it’s also a blast to drive and notably more planted and responsive than either of my parents’ Rav4s. As for reliability, you’re talking about one aspect of the vehicle that even after 10 years many Mazda owners likely wouldn’t even deal with. Speaking of reliability though, let’s have a look at what’s out there with the vehicles I was referencing. JD Power’s quality and reliability score for the CX-30 is 80 out of 100 while the same score for the RAV4 was 76 out of 100. Consumer Reports has a predicted reliability score of 80 out of 100 for the CX-30 while the same score for the RAV4 was 76 out of 100. Coming from a family of largely Toyota owners over the course of the last 40 years I can attest that things can go wrong even with an almighty Toyota. To your point on the respective engines though, your citing engine noise as the only factor in cabin noise was hilarious. The difference in cabin noise between my CX-30 and my parents’ Rav4s is down to more than just engine noise. Noise levels from the road, traffic and even wind are notably more audible in the Toyotas such that it’s not even really close. And you want to cite reviews from KZbin or other people, well I distinctly remember Motomouth’s Rav4 review and their citing of the noise levels. That was more down to the gas engine, though can’t imagine someone actually buying a Rav4 with just a gas engine.

[@markg1531]

You mean Alfa Romeo doesn’t? I’m picking up an Alfa Romeo Stelvio Tributo Italiano in two weeks. I have a fully loaded CX-30 which I love but the Alfa is on another level. And it costs twice as much…

[@FullAttach]

Why da hell are the seats so narrow?

[@dealman3312]

BMW and MINI Go drive a countryman JCW OR S and youll see how a connected road experience should feel

[@FastCar5]

Love Mazda, however, the CX-30 with those huge black plastic wheel trim moldings look horrible. If Mazda reduced the size of moldings to 25 percent of the current size and added a body colored rear bumper that would make the CX-30 look more upscale. Also Mazda needs to stop the move to all black wheels or at least offer optional chrome or titanium finishes for those of us not in love with all black wheels. ie the Turbo CX-30 only offered in all black wheels is a deal breaker for me.

[@thomobrien1854]

You are aware that there are thousands of after market wheels that you can buy to fit these vehicles?… 17 thru 20 inch … any finish you want? Gawd!

[@FastCar5]

@@thomobrien1854 The problem with adding aftermarket items, it gives a reason for auto manufacturers to void warranties if trouble arises.

[@Wayneman50]

To each's own. I have the Red cx-30 turbo premium plus and really like the black rims. They compliment the car well. It looks kind of odd without black rims due to the large black cladding that goes around the wheel wells.

[@matw1x]

Ever since Mazda left Ford and joined Toyota, the quality & style skyrocketed

[@MRP4U2B]

And their reliability as well. They're one step ahead several Toyota General models and one step behind Lexus, but that's my humble opinion. 😁

[@brandononbrand]

light-steering cars are harder to park than Mazdas... the lack of feel means I have to correct my parking more than in a Mazda... I mention this, because a lot of people say light-steering is better for parking... and that's not my experience.

[@generynkewicz4871]

Sure. Porsche, BMW, Ferrari, Lamborghini- hold my beer.

[@vipermoon_]

I heard the Turbos come from Japan

[@thelookingway5390]

Wrong, look at the Vin # when clicking on the cx30 turbo. The M second to the 3, means Mexico. J would stand for Japan!

[@vipermoon_]

@@thelookingway5390 thanks. It's just the Mazda 3 then for turbo

[@ardetag]

Mazda is a Persian word and you are pronouncing exactly right the way an Iranian would say Mazda

[@trex1448]

You guys should try drive a Kia...

[@trex1448]

@thelookingway5390 welcome to 2024. I have a new Cx5 and a Kia Sportage. The Kia is the better daily driver. Better handling, faster acceleration, far better interior design and controls. The Mazda has the better engine but the design and control design is cumbersome. The rotary control makes me want to barf everytime. The Cx5 has more storage space so we use it for camping and long trips.

[@douglaskaye1395]

I wish Mazda would produce hybrids and especially a plug in hybrid. Just dreaming

[@OriginalYTBR]

I definitely wouldnt say mazda is the only one. Maybe for this class of vehicle and price range. Drive the new RDX and let me know.

[@oskarngo9138]

With today’s High cost of living, Fun-To-Drive is a Dispensable Luxury... Corolla LE Hybrid 50mpg... is good enough... ...and there’s that ~$30 Trillion Debt....

[@darkchocolate4595]

Mazda looks nice , but why is it every time I drive a bit fast it smells like something burning 🫠 , cx3,cx5 2023 , pretty but fragile 😪 maybe because we always get left over spec here in Indonesia , no turbo , no wide infotainment , lousy dealer , perhaps Honda or Volvo better ,

[@thelookingway5390]

I have a 2014 Honda CRV, awesome vehicle, but wouldn't touch a new CRV today, only their CRV hybrid would I buy! The Turbo CX30 is really fun to drive, and would definitely purchase rather than a new CRV.

[@59marck]

THe windows are so small on that car.

[@darkelfasian]

while they are doing so bad the luxury CX60 (_ __!)

[@dattape2828]

Steering is very similar to Fords since Mazda once shared components. Main thing is that the wheel drifts back to the center but it doesn’t fight with the driver.

[@vrblknch1]

Mini Countryman S has entered the chat.

[@blakespower]

haha Dodge Hornet is made by Italians will that be a good feel car?

[@drwisdom1]

The steering might be good but you can't have fun with an automatic transmission. Years ago I had an RX-2 and it was fun.

[@cypher7031]

there's a manual option too

[@drwisdom1]

@@cypher7031 Really, which model?

[@cypher7031]

@@drwisdom1 you need to play around with different trim levels i think, check the car configurator on mazda’s site. You can select it when you pick your engine. Mazda 3 and cx30 for sure, maybe cx5, but i can’t recall the others.

[@cypher7031]

@@drwisdom1 i should clarify that i live in europe, so i’m not sure if it’s the same for the US

[@davidspencer7254]

😂😂😂

[@caissystems2625]

Ask the owners of MAZDA CX60 what do they think about terrible quality and scary handling 🤮🤮🤮🤮 Never again

[@Electruver]

Gas cars are for losers, electrics are for successful ones. Deal with it.

[@devildog5354]

You sound like you're full of gas...

[@xsej4223]

Since when?

[@whatthe6532]

@@xsej4223since yesterday. Please try to keep up.

[@boboiboy9350]

electric car buyer should buy for extended warranty because down the line, battery packs will deplete in quality and will not hold charge.