Chasing Luxury | 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo

[@shadowcats]

I own the loaded CX-30 Turbo and took delivery of it on 12 January, so I’ve been driving it about a month now. I love this vehicle. I seriously looked at the BMW X1 and X2 as an option but could not get over the massive difference in price. This was a great deal and I really do believe the technology and features inside are premium enough to make me feel like I got a great deal and my money’s worth. Take into account the lower depreciation and maintenance costs nas this car will be a value after a few years. Thus far, everyone who has seen this vehicle has loved the design, and the black/black with black wheels is a very slick look - you hardly notice the plastic trim. Regarding handling and acceleration - no issues, and this is certainly fun to drive - but we are just breaking her in with only a few hundred miles.

[@baldheadlogic]

Congrats. How has your real world fuel economy been? Is the fuel range over 300 miles? Just curious

[@buildmorefarms1007]

I thought it would be quicker...Im disapppointed

[@2004cyrus]

I’ve loved all of my Mazda’s! Hard to justify spending $15k more for the luxury badge. I’ve had my share of BMW and Audi. The Mazda makes me feel like I’ve been wise with my hard earned money. I think this is going to make my list for next vehicle purchase to run around town

[@mpg65]

@@buildmorefarms1007 quicker than what? I don’t get this faster mindset. It should get to 60 in 6 seconds. Why isn't that fast enough. The 3 gets around 5 5 seconds to 60?

[@andrewnolan180]

Phillip, You will also appreciate the significantly lower cost of maintenance and repairs over the BMW after the warranty expires. Your Mazda will need little beyond the basics for 150 to 200,000 miles versus thousands per year in a BMW.

[@scottimusgarrett15]

I bought one. The vehicle definitely punches above its weight class. Quiet, comfortable, Bose sound, great power, gorgeous interior. No regrets whatsoever so far.

[@faautobahna9416]

Did you pay over MSRP or was it under it? Thanks.

[@scottimusgarrett15]

@@faautobahna9416 we paid MSRP on it. Nothing above market value. I think that people shy away from the top-end CX 30's because they think it's an entry-level for $40,000 (🇨🇦). With a chip, mine goes to 100km/hr in 4.7 seconds, is quiet, the leather interior is luxurious, the Bose stereo is fantastic, the driving dynamics are great....As you can tell, I hate it.😜 I always wanted a small luxury performance CUV, and I honestly couldn't be happier. I know I sound like a PR flack from Mazda, but try one. You'll be impressed.

[@kaileysweeney4240]

I believe the Mazda CX-30 is easily the best looking crossover in either the luxury market or its mainstream alternatives. I think the CX-30 is a lifted luxurious hot-hatch that’s a great car for a couple without kids or a single person. It’s a bit tight for a family. The looks and performance are enough to sell me, and sure enough, I’m buying one. Torque, I love the torque.

[@AbsoluteADCC]

As much as I revert to 0-60 to measure acceleration performance, the real difference that I feel in a daily driver is on the freeway when I need 60-90. And that's where this care truly shines comparatively to other cars in the segment.

[@orlandos2000]

My friend bought a cx30 last year and in all honesty, the plastic cladding is not a big deal when you see the car live and upfront. It’s actually a really nice, slick vehicle.

[@SteveBarna]

I was really surprised but yes, the cladding kinda works in person.

[@rondail5675]

Alex, you do the best, honest reviews.

[@2004cyrus]

He really does! Always has! And he is funny too!

[@2004cyrus]

@@renegadepuppy me too Adrian !

[@jamesdavis6036]

Just purchased 2022 CX-30 Turbo Premium Soul Red white interior with 2,600 miles yesterday. I also test drove the non-turbo. If your a "driver" turbo is the only option. The Adaptive Headlights in conjunction with auto high beams is amazing. Night driving is now lit up like Yankee stadium at all times. Should be mandatory. Would save many lives. Rides like a luxury car. At 80 MPH almost as quiet as a Lincoln Continental. Handles terrific. Plenty of leg room in the rear with the front seats set at the mid-way point. My 6' tall son got in back & his knees were 4" from front seat. Bose stereo sounded rich & deep. Oh yeah, zoom freaking zoom!

[@bigcahuna42366]

An 8 speed automatic doesn't necessarily mean it's better than a 6. I had a 2017 Cadillac ATS that was one of the first models with the 8 speed, and I was already having transmission issues when the car was only five years old with 30K miles on it. I now own a CX-30 Turbo Premium and even with a 6 speed, I've been very satisfied with it.

[@boubou9218]

I'm a one week owner of this car , my previous 3 ones were CX5's . For the price and what it offers , it's a real bargain . My work commute fuel economy gives me almost the same as my previous 2018 cx5 with cylinder de-activation (around 6.3 L/100km) , averaging around 85 km/h . That extra power (with the turbo) , without spirited driving , gives it a smoother ride . It is comfortable and easy to live with . The sound system is the best I've heard in any of the cars I owned , espacially if you like a lot of base .

[@MarkRVillano]

I wish they would offer the option of fully painted panels without the cladding. I think it would look a lot better, and it's something that I'd pay extra for if it wasn't too expensive.

[@MD-cs4js]

100% agree, very ugly big plastic cladding.

[@BrendanPJames]

Yeah, I would immediately get a body shop to paint them if I got this car

[@Hennessy198]

Most would think that, but throw a pic of it through photoshop to see what would happen if you painted the clading and it honestly looks awful.

[@MarkRVillano]

@@BrendanPJames I was thinking that they should be removed completely, but painting them would be a cheaper and easier to repair option.

[@MarkRVillano]

@@MD-cs4js That is what made Pontiacs so disgusting during the 90's.

[@reptilianskin]

Nothing wrong with the Mazda logo in my opinion. It’s a well designed vehicle that performs great. It represents value for money. Affordable luxury. And it looks good from every angle inside and out. It’s why I bought it.

[@M.c.3726]

SPACED = Safety, Performance, Appearance, Comfort, Economy, Dependability. For me having gone through The CX5 Turbo, Both the Mazda 3 sedan and hatch turbos, ultimate decision that that CX30 is the best of all the aforementioned machines. It also fits SPACED in every aspect. I really appreciate your review.

[@billgarci]

Alex the 6 speed gearbox has been EXTREMELY reliable compare to the newer 8-10 speed gearboxes that have been recently released. Even Toyota has encountered issues with their new 8 speed unlike their old 6 speeds which were bullet proof. For my money specially If I was buying used or planning to keep the car about 4-6 years plus I'll take the old 6 speeds every day without hesitation. At least this car doesn't have a CVT. Although Toyota makes the best CVT but it's still a CVT.

[@Mr00Ted]

10:28 Lifehack: upright and along the back of the front seats is a good place to cram the cargo cover since you're probably folding the seats too in order to fit a big item in the back of these hatches.

[@djw1091994]

I definitely do this!

[@nycp1969]

This is the best comparison review I've seen. You gave me exactly the information I was looking for. I am a big Mazda fan. I was considering trading up to an Audi Q3 or Q5 for my next car, but your information makes me realize that not only do I not want the Audi price tag, I genuinely love the Mazda badge, both in terms of its design and what it represents. I guess I am not the Audi shopper who might consider a Mazda. I'm the Mazda shopper who briefly considered an Audi. At comparable trim levels, there's a $12,000 difference between a CX-30 and a Q3. You know what I would buy with that money--put it towards a gently used Miata. Two beautiful Mazdas for little more than the price of an Audi!

[@marktroynatividad5805]

I disagree on the handling.. I test drove the turbo premium.. handled fantastic! Reminded me of my BMW M2.

[@CKamera23]

I own it and love it. Great job Mazda!!! Smooth and fast.

[@phuot1]

Cladding could be less but I will choose it over all the German competitions

[@mikelentz3726]

You are one the best car reviewers on KZbin keep it going. I like you, redline, and savageese. Your end summaries and competitive analysis takes a lot of the more uncomfortable final decision making out of the equation.

[@kolibriflyer3555]

I just got mine last night. It is absolutely beautiful! All the bells and whistles for a reasonable price. I traded in the Honda CRV for this. The CRV served me quite well with it's reliability & comfort.. However, I feel it's time for a better upgrade.

[@faautobahna9416]

How much did you pay? Are the Turbo Premium and Turbo Premium Plus models commanding price premium over msrp like with many other car makers/dealers? I so much want the pre-COVID car buying times back!

[@jamoncure]

I test drove this today. HATE the thick plastic trim over the wheel wells. You know that over time that plastic is going to look bad, because it will likely fade and get scratched. Don’t care for the black wheels either (Hey Mazda,why don’t you offer a couple options??). Driving it was a lot of fun! The turbo is great. Interior is fine, but don’t carry any big peeps in the back. I think they will sell a ton of these cars, very good value for the quality. Agree with your opinion that the look of this is very attractive, one of Mazda’s best efforts. Thanks for the review, Alex!!!

[@dstevens518]

Your reviews are the standard. They're comprehensive, and you don't fill your reviews with inane chatter or talk so slowly I have to play your reviews at 1.5X speed, which I have to do with most others. Anyone seriously shopping should not only test drive the vehicles and their competitors, but listen to your review. They will emerge with a much better understanding of what they're getting, and where their choice stands vs. the competition.

[@alfonsowadeyua5293]

One of the most beautiful cars ever!

[@Charles_Mulberry_7977]

Best car reviews on KZbin! In depth with all the information you need! Thanks Alex and company!

[@trev8426]

I have a non-turbo version and found it more than enough power for my use. I like the large body cladding, gives more protection and really makes a strong contrast to my body colour which is white. Also like the non-touch display system, but it does have a longer learning curve, but it makes a lot of sense and no finger marks all over the screen. I also find it gives very good fuel economy. The luxurious and clean finish dash was a big factor in my purchase compared to similar size models like the Seltos and Qashqai for example.

[@muaythaiislife9520]

Same here. I love my jet black CX30 ❤️ non-turbo version.

[@deadlyk12538]

Just bought a soul red non-turbo myself! I love it!!

[@silentrefusal9911]

in my opinion, the biggest problem for this CX-30 is none other than its own elder brother, the CX-5. For a couple thousands more, you are not only getting getting a bigger and more spacious vehicle running on the same engine, but that is much more refined and actually deserves that price more than this CX-30

[@vikramyerneni]

I really like to see Alex’s comparison between CX30 vs Audi Q3 vs Subaru Outback

[@notdisclosed3646]

A really informative review Alex. You say it was rushed, but I found your analysis to be thorough and informative. I will be shopping for a vehicle in this size category when the 22's arrive, and intend to consider this one vs. the Audi Q3, plus a few others in the near-luxury arena. Given my actual purchase intention, I am writing notes as I watch reviews from numerous sources, including you Alex, a couple of other independent reviewers, and various car magazines, etc. By a country mile I always learn more from your videos than from any of the others. Your presentation pace trusts the viewer to keep up, and for serious watchers, that's easy - since your presentations are packed with information, including useful summary comparisons with "peer" vehicles. Finally, I appreciate that you focus mostly on vehicles which are accessible to "regular" people. Keep up your great work. It is much appreciated.

[@khronin]

I drive the Q3 on business trips and love it--but for the money I would choose this.Once you start checking options a q3 can get near 50k.I also buy my vehicles outright and the taxes alone on just the diffrence in price can add almost 3k on top of how much the Audi is.I have a 2020 AWD 3.3TT Stinger i might sell--love the car but it is worth almost 12k more then I paid for it and I have people that have seen it on you tube wanting to buy it from 45 to 47k--I paid 36k for mine and put 2k to get geomet cross drilled slotted and vented rotors on all 4s to make it track ready.I love the stinger but it sits too low for trips and I could buy the CX-30 outright and my car bank account would be right at 45k and i would own a brand new CX-30 outright.I am also forced to rent cars because I can not goto the mountains in the stinger because it is too low and I have more time for traveling and need something like this tha can fit my ebike.I really want a GLA 45 AMG--I have the money--but I am frugal and to tell you the truth--cars that can hit 60 in under 5 seconds is total overkill in daily driving.I literally get on the HWY at 100 plus literally everytime I drive the Stinger.Bose stereo that comes with the CX-30 can be even further upgraded for 800 bucks and you have studio level sound in it.

[@jbm0866]

@@khronin You are so right about cars that can do 0-60 in under 5 seconds being overkill, and I'd argue the same for those who can do it under 6. Is it cool? Yes, very cool...but doing that often on public roads and highways is eventually going to draw the notice of law enforcement, and for the vast majority of situations it's not even neccessary. Most freeway entrances are more than long enough to allow even underpowered cars to get up to speed. I have a 2021 Mazda 3 turbo hatch and happy I have the extra power, but if the turbo didnt exist I probably would have bought the same car anyway...186hp (now 191) is plenty for a car this size, especially if you stick with FWD. As for the Bose thing, my system sounds really good in factory form, I'd be afraid to mess things up with aftermarket changes. Maybe some better speakers? I've done that before on a previous car and it seemed like a lot of work and expense for not enough gain...which then led to installing an amp and sub, the latter of which already exists on my car and does a good job with the music I listen to. (Rock/prog rock/mainstream metal and ambient)

[@brandonyen7837]

I love this Cx-30 with the long hood 👍

[@b1uezea1ot]

Meaning it has tiny interior space comparing cars with same size with shorter hood.

[@BReal-10EC]

Regarding fuel economy, note you can put regular gas in this and still have all the torque. Many premium brands require premium fuel, which adds fuel costs.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Most engines will operate safely on regular unleaded with reduced power output. Modern knock control systems enable this

[@BReal-10EC]

@@AAutoBuyersGuide But I am sure they cut power since they are not designed to run on cheap gas.

[@dforrest4503]

I will upvote any video with the trunk comfort index.

[@treads2595]

To the people who complain about the body cladding, you’re not going to see it while you’re inside driving the car so who cares. Also if you get the car in the right color the cladding isn’t so bad.

[@NormandyFoye]

Superb review. You’re one of the best on KZbin.

[@rafaljankowski2807]

yes, he is

[@2004cyrus]

He is THE BEST! Raitis rides is fun too

[@stephenbarbieri3269]

Just got mine last Saturday and i love it. What the cx 30 lacks in polish to the European cars it makes up for in reliability, Everyone knows how unreliable Euro cars are and how much they are to maintain as with Japanese cars which are extremely relatable and wont cost you an arm and a leg to fix and service.

[@mattscullin5844]

Now that you mention it, the body cladding is a bit much. It seems out of proportion with the rest of the car to me.

[@mayssm]

Yeah, I don't mind it on some cars, but on the Mazda it really kind of ruins the sporty look.

[@garrettw99]

I would totally consider the CX-30 if I was looking at a subcompact luxury SUV. It blows the UX and Encore GX out of the water. I would very likely choose to buy it over the BMW, but the Audi would be tough competition.

[@slscamg]

Nope. A Q3 buyer wants the cheapest SUV lease payment with an Audi badge they can get. It’s that simple, they could get a lot more for their money if they went with the main stream brand, but they want to show off that they were able to “afford” an Audi.

[@seadoo4life127]

I see a Q3 and I think they didn’t have the $ for 5 or 7 lol.

[@markmiller3279]

The Q3 is legitimately nice, and many of us don't need or want anything larger. No, I don't own one, but I'd definitely consider it if shopping in this segment.

[@2004cyrus]

This is so true and I was talking to my friend about it earlier. I call those people badge snobs. Or Reachers. So many people say they don’t care what anyone thinks yet they kill themselves to get into the most expensive vehicle they can’t really afford. And $400 jeans and Balenciaga shoes or those stupid Hermès belts. Consumerism in America is gross. Our priorities in this country are way off.

[@2004cyrus]

@@seadoo4life127 lol exactly

[@2004cyrus]

@@markmiller3279 Mazda CX-5 is so much better and you don’t have to worry about someone hitting your door in the Mazda. I’ve had the Audis and grew stressed about worrying it would get many scratches when I make my Starbucks and Whole Foods & Nordstrom runs! Lmao

[@shreyasghanta]

I think the Mazda logo is great. The brand is ready to take the leap to the luxury segment and I am waiting for it.

[@chocolatemilk912]

I wish it had the older DRL’s. Those were stunning.

[@mgjmiller1995]

The CX-30 is gorgeous. I just wish Mazda had their own hybrid tech, or had licensed hybrid technology from Toyota, Honda, etc. My ~11yo CUV gets maybe 25mpg; my next vehicle will be hybrid or maybe EV

[@Emurselovic]

We ended up buying a CX-5 and did cross-shop it against the competition. My wife thought it was better looking and enjoyed driving it more. The only car she liked more was the XC40, but at the time it was something like a $7,000 difference between the two and the CX-5 checked all of her requirements. I think Mazda's upmarket move is a very attainable goal, and they could easily establish themselves as the Japanese BMW since Nissan still can't get Infiniti figured out, and Honda seems to be fully embracing its role as J-Audi (NSX:R8, cleaner lines, etc)

[@kristians2704]

I'm a Euro car fan but I must admit that for the price this beats all the cars you mentioned. Well done Mazda!

[@yahtzeejimbob]

I am not a fan of the plastic body cladding, and let me tell you why. In 1984 I bought a brand new Volkswagen Jetta that came with plastic cladding on both front and rear bumpers. The really cool cars in that time we're starting to offer color keyed bumpers, that is to say the bumpers were painted the same color as whatever the body was. This always cost more but looked way better. Also, the plastic cladding which began its life as not quite black but very dark, would become faded, almost Gray within the first year. This forced me to constantly have to apply armor all to the plastic to bring back the dark color more like original.

[@Chrisnuzzo76]

At this price range, not one crossover can even come close in comparison. Some 0-60 tests have come up at 5.6 sec 0-60. That's sports car level, and you're still able to run 87 octane and get 25 avg mpg. Zoom Zoom baby!

[@williamcallaway2228]

I own a CX-30 Select trim. Thinking about upgrading to the turbo. Great review Alex!

[@aapinor]

Great review Alex. I am currently leasing a X1 BMW and for sure will take a look to the CX30 Mazda turbo! Thanks

[@porterbrass]

I’ve driven it. A great car! I own the CX5 GT and love it. The only deal breaker for me with purchasing the CX30 is the rear passenger space. At 6’-5”, if I was in the driver seat, the rear passenger would need to remove their legs🤨😳 Excellent review!

[@ernestbenoit1919]

Alex...you're doing a great job and I enjoy that you touch on all the important items I look for in a vehicle. Being a Veteran with a body in daily pain the CX-30 is the perfect vehicle for me. Living in the Maritimes Canada where we get a lot of snow the AWD was a must. I'm not a big fan of the cladding and think they should have made it the same as the other models. I'm 5ft and 6 Smurfs tall at 150 lbs and find that this CX-30 is a perfect size for me. I removed the rear center headrest to get a little more view out the rear. When driving the non turbo version I thought it was a tag slow and had some engine noise. But when I drove the Turbo version it put a smile on my face. You don't hear the engine on the turbo version because it has so much power that it's effortless to propel itself around town. This CX-30 doesn't drive like a heavy SUV. I drove the CX-5 and found that without the turbo it was too heavy and needed more power. For the price the CX-5 with the turbo was a little pricey but drop down to the top trim in the CX-30 and problem solved. In my case aprox 95 % of the time there will be no one in the back seats but a large dog, no one in the passenger seat and no cargo in the trunk except occasional golf clubs. And I agree...it's time Mazda put 8 gears in all their vehicles to make fuel economy even better. I found that the Bridgestone Turanza tires were just as loud as the directional Michelin X Ice winters I bought. When the summers wear out I'll be trying 225 width tires rated as quiet. I didn't buy the thing to save on gas. And it will only rarely be on any highway. Thanks Alex!

[@twolford01]

Great review as usual. The trunk portion of the video is good if you are sneaking people into outdoor movie venues or transporting Jimmy Hoffa (yes I'm old), but always wonder why practically nobody shows the utilization of space with the seats folded down. Had a SAAB 900 hatchback and loaded a boxed 50 gallon hot water heater in it and was able to close the trunk door.

[@jondraper9505]

Can wider tires be put on these wheels? What brand would you recommend? Wish it had a trailer hitch for rear bike racks. What brand of roof racks do you prefer/recommend for this rig?

[@roman-bq3iy]

Can you please explain rating differences for handling, ride, cabin noise you gave to 2020 mazda CX-30 with standard engine. Aren't these the same vehicles except engine differences. On 2020 you gave C+ for ride quality vs A for 2021. That's is a big jump. Thanks for your reviews!

[@Mountain413]

My guess is because the CX-30 Turbo is compared against the luxury crossovers, the regular CX-30 Alex reviewed is against regular subcompacts, i.e C-HR, HR-V. Regular subcompacts typically have a cushier ride, luxury crossovers have a sportier but rougher ride.

[@roman-bq3iy]

@@Mountain413 I think you are right. I can see that "compared to..." statement on that green score banner. I found its interesting that even on cabin noise it did better against luxury CUV's

[@Mountain413]

@@roman-bq3iy yeah that’s definitely telling how much luxury SUV’s are aimed towards “sportiness” rather than true luxury, i.e ride quality or cabin noise 🤷🏻‍♂️ it’s what consumers want I guess

[@MugatuJag]

Awesome review as always Alex, and your 0-60 time of 6.2 is rather conservative, I know there are a lot of factors that play in but you usually have somebody lowest 0-60 times, I can't recall which reviewer but they got 5.8 which is very quick

[@khronin]

Weather and fuel.I have a 2020 AWD Stinger GT 3.3TT and a gast station near me has 94.I ran a 4.2 to 60 and 12.7 at the track without launch control on 94 gas and the only mod I have is an exhaust--I also did it at 3k miles after I broke the car in the right way and even got a premature oil change to have fresh oil after the break in.I cringe at these folks flooring new cars--I luckily got my stinger totally new with no miles on it.I did not even need to floor it to tell it had a ton of power.

[@jheighten7568]

What bother me about new cars is that they have all these safety features that is supposed to help with the insurance but then the insurance will nail you and raise the insurance because although is a safer car it will cost more to the insurance to fix a headlight . So .........

[@shammyh]

Dunno bout you... But my ~54K MSRP XC60 was a lot cheaper to insure than my previous sold-for-2K 2004 XC70. By like, a fair margin.

[@jheighten7568]

I am talking about less costly cars which the insurance should be even lower.

[@wyw201]

@@jheighten7568 Bought a ES300h to replace my old Gti and insurance didn't change.

[@jheighten7568]

Perhaps I need to change insurance, 😆. But the gecko is supposed to save me money, I thought he was my buddy.

[@2004cyrus]

You can shop around and negotiate rates to some extent like I do. You can get your credit score up and call your insurance to give you a rerate and get a lower rate too. Keep your driving record clean. And just shop around every year like I said and get it for about $100 or a little less per month. And ask for discounts based on organizations you might be apart of.

[@spyderhead7160]

HATE the massive cladding. 😎

[@plneky1171]

Actually this matches up very well in value and performance against the Mini Cooper Countryman and now extinct Clubman in the S trim.

[@nischintr]

The side body cladding bothers me. Mazda SUVs while they look great from the front, they look bad from the side because of the “lifted” look.

[@tousshong9438]

Agree! That huge body cladding looks awful.

[@Dave-sw2dm]

Then buy the hatchbacks. I think without the cladding it would look like a station wagon.

[@TriniGamerGirl7]

Agreed, however, IMO the darker the body color, the less noticeable it is. That's what sets it apart from the CX-5, beside the size.

[@rdm925]

If this had been out 2 years ago, I would have considered it instead of the 2019 CX-5 Signature I bought. However I'm glad I got the CX-5. To me it needs to have a 40/20/40 split rear seat, passenger power seat and ventilated seats to be really competitive. Also the black cladding is a bit to much. Otherwise it's a good CUV and selling well for a Mazda.

[@kevinW826]

I plan on sticking with Mazda. My 2015 Mazda3 has been bulletproof. My fiancée loves her 2016 Mazda CX-5. Lots of space.

[@remiguertin6474]

Did not like the fender cladding, got a CX5 Tourbo - very happy!

[@adamnevis7636]

An excellent video Alex!

[@Jrrsj]

Can someone tell Mazda to move the heated steering wheel button to the only blank button on the steering wheel and add VENTILATED SEATS to this and the 3? 100% agree on the need for a power passenger seat. Same with power folding mirrors. These 3 missing features should all be included on the premium plus trim.

[@swanblake]

Just get the CX 5 Turbo Carbon for the $31k or a CX5 GT Reserve for $35k. You get IRS, more cargo room, and no huge ugly black plastic body cladding. Cannot wait for Mazda to do a touch screen and an 8 speed automatic with proper gearing

[@benhaze1010]

Well said

[@CC-gt3ro]

I think it is not for tomorrow.. they are very stubborn with their dial media center and removed completely the touch feature so i think it will be like that for several year. They are also very stubborn their their long front engine that reduce the passenger room size and the old 6 transmission when everybody else improve gas mileage and space. They seems not to understand that in 2035 they won’t be able to sell their hungry turbo anymore in Quebec.

[@marktroynatividad5805]

I test drove the CX5 Turbo Carbon and CX30 Turbo Premium.. the CX5 has a lot of room but the CX30 was more fun to drive and felt more luxurious.. it just wasn’t roomy. If I were to get a CX5 then I would get the GT Reserve or Signature.. definitely better than the Turbo Carbon. Those two trims are all about luxury

[@stewartstarling2309]

Another fantastic review! Thank you sir.

[@sapounngin2237]

100% agreed to your reviewed.

[@gabrielrogers2971]

You’re so friggin awesome Alex followed you for years !

[@TheCraitor]

Great car that I would consider buying but that plastic cladding ruins it for me

[@michaelgoh5830]

Great review Alex. I currently own an Audi A3 Sportback and am looking to upsize to a subcompact or compact SUV. I do agree with you that the Mazda badge on the front and back of the vehicle would be a problem, at least for me. Prior to my current Audi A3 and over the last 20 years, I had owned 2 Volvos , 3 BMWs and a Mercedes, I just can’t see switching to a Mazda, no matter how good the vehicle is, is an attractive option. I guess I am just a brand snob! From Melbourne Australia 🇦🇺

[@rudyreyes848]

In a hundred years who's gonna care?

[@ohadparan2853]

A very well informed buyer would cross-shop this with Audi and BMW. But most people go for the brand. Separately, dealer experience is important. Shopping for a Volvo is so different than Mazda’s. And that matters.

[@crazydaysful]

Attractive car, the black cladding looks good, but that screen needs to be touch screen and it needs to be raised up higher because it is pushed down in that slot a little too much.

[@Unchainedmaple888]

My main problem with the new Mazda 3 and the CX-30 is poor visibility. Very small windows and thick A-pillars.

[@robertroccii7117]

Best Motor from Mazda in the Compact SUV. That´s amazing and only in America possible but not in Europe!!!

[@chawpino8320]

So Alex, what do attribute your ride rating going from c- on N.A. version to A on the turbo version. Seems a big difference.

[@afcgeo882]

The competition, I think. The NA he was comparing to standard sub-compact CUVs that come closer in price like the CHR and HR-V, but with this one he was aiming at the BMW X1, Mercedes GLA, Audi Q3, etc.

[@digmacdiggydoo]

The comment about the Mazda logo is spot on. I have a 2018 Kia Stinger GT and love the car, but that Kia logo stairs me in the face every time I drive the car. But once I am behind the wheel, I am thinking that the car is too much fun to drive and all is good. Perhaps that would be the case here with this car?

[@jeffwhiting4237]

I've owned a couple BMWs and a couple Mazdas. I'll be in the market for a compact, or potentially a subcompact SUV in the next year or two. Ultimately it will come down to the minimum acceptable vehicle. The newer Mazdas do appear to be closing the gap, but I'm not sure if they are quite there yet.

[@SaraK_69]

I agree, Mazda will have to close the gap with BMW before they start to charge thousands more.

[@marcusjamesOG]

Alex can you do 30 -50 and 50 -70mph acceleration test. This would be more real world and appropriate for this class. Most people won’t be drag racing these.

[@LiohJuney]

Having a 2020 Mazda 3 Hatchback as a loaner while my Miata was getting scheduled maintenance done was an eye opener to how premium Mazda wants to be. However, what definitely killed the experience for me was the torsion beam in the back even before I knew it had one. Driving around a couple of speed bumps in my neighborhood showed me how jittery the back gets if you hit one too fast for the car. In my opinion, you can't have a luxury competitor with a torsion beam no matter how amazing it looks. Please don't do this to your bigger vehicles.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Exactly.

[@VancityAnu]

Alex, I watch each & every car review of yours and have been doing so since I discovered this channel years ago. This is my goto channel to get info about any car on the road!

[@downhillskier7]

Black wheels tread remind me of cheap steel rims when aluminum alloy rims were silver or grey color

[@user-kd7iv1me7j]

I wish Mazda would develop more hybrid technology they are behind every one else

[@bshn10]

Lol if you want hybrid get something else.

[@coolshariq]

Hybrid SUCKS!!

[@jjchockey]

Fantastic Value. You get a car that is 90% as good as the luxury cars for over 10k cheaper. Plus it has the reliability and maintenance cost of mainstream cars like Honda or Toyota. Mazda is making some nice moves. Once the RWD i6 Mazda 6 comes out I think more people will start looking at Mazda as an alternative to Acura or Lexus.

[@kristians2704]

yeah and they might even start touching the Germans.

[@b1uezea1ot]

Enjoy your $35k Mazda with 6 Speed. Driving dynamics and luxury doesn't even come close to Germans. If you care about the reliability, get something from Toyota or Honda.

[@jjchockey]

It’s definitely pretty close to a BMW X1 or Lexus UX and much nicer then a HRV or CHR while being the same price as the economy cars. Even the 25k CX30 has more features then the “luxury” brands. Any way you look at it this car is a tremendous value. @@b1uezea1ot

[@mcalebeb]

I would have a hard time with this and the XC40. Different vibes, but both garageable.

[@2004cyrus]

That XC-40 is hard to beat! I leased one in November and I’m really enjoying it.

[@mcalebeb]

I test drove one when car shopping with my buddy. I enjoyed it!

[@2004cyrus]

@@mcalebeb that’s fantastic Caleb! I totally recommend but the Mazda is pretty excellent except for 1 thing. You are handsome btw!

[@mcalebeb]

@@2004cyrus thanks man

[@2004cyrus]

@@mcalebeb for sure man! I guess I’ll use my fave pic like you so people can see who is behind the comments

[@Dave-sw2dm]

I was going to buy a CX-3, and if it would have had a manual shift I would have. But all my research said I should try the CX-30 before making my decision. I would have gone for a sport but my wife and I both wanted the Red so we chose a Select to test drive. It is a much more refined drive than the CX-3 without being too large like the CX-5 or CX-9. It is only the two of us. I found it to be a lot of car for the money and I was able to negotiate at my local market. Less than 100 miles, but very happy so far. I do need to find out how to protect the plastic cladding from UV.

[@BuceriasRodHardy]

The Mazda CX-30 turbos are having an excessive oil consumption issue that Mazda is well aware of but have not come up with a fix as of May 2022.

[@JsnLwrnce]

For some reason I dislike the front turn signals. Is that how they are in Japan?

[@Clint_the_Audio-Photo_Guy]

Apparently the HP and torque numbers only change over 4,000rpm too, so regular fuel users won't even notice it during their normal commutes. Seems like a no-brainer to me. Who wants to spend more for gas to get unrealized gains? 310lb ft of torque seems like plenty.

[@DavidDLee]

The trim that make more sense getting is the naturally aspirated 2.5L, which has all the power you really need, weigh less, gets better fuel economy and will be cheaper to maintain. That trim is still a very good deal. Perhaps the only thing which could be improved with it is the fuel economy, especially when compared to the Crosstrek Sport. On the other hand, if you do get the Turbo and put on wider tires, it would be a pretty decent buy for a more performance vehicle, though the engine is tuned for drivability and not for performance.

[@smmikkel]

I am their target. I've been considering a slightly used Volvo or Audi to get the luxury but not the $40K+ price

[@ronin2981]

With the additional reliability too.

[@gordongt1272]

Cool ute, cool video. Thanks, Alex. I own a Type R right now, but i think that itch has been scratched... this is a very nice vehicle and looks like a good value.

[@alexmobil7463]

A torsion rear beam Suspension!!?? Cool! They give you a so called upgraded cabin design and because of that you get an archaic rear suspension! Thanks Mazda!

[@rightlanehog3151]

We have to give credit to Alex, he mentioned that retrograde suspension several times in this review.

[@alexmobil7463]

@@rightlanehog3151 Alex has nothing to do with this, he did very well noticing this foolish malfunction of Mazda!

[@ender25ish]

I sat in this at the LA auto show in 2020, the windows are REALLY small, and the interior feels cramped.

[@quixomega]

A compact is small? I'm shocked, shocked I tells ya.

[@ender25ish]

@@quixomega the Hyundai venue feels spacious in comparison, it's really quite cramped in the Mazda

[@khailils446]

@@ender25ish I'm curious to sit in one, because the large interior of my dad's kia soul might have me spoiled.

[@rondail5675]

Mazda is doing well in design and powertrain. Good for them. No CVT is excellent!!!! They should increase their warranty to 5yr/bumper-to-bumper. It is wonderful that Hyundai and Kia have the 10 year powertrain warranty.

[@kevinW826]

Mazda Canada has a 3 year unlimited bumper to bumper. Hyundai/Kia only do a 5 year 100,000 bumper to bumper. There is a guy I work with, he has put 150,000 kms or more on his car in the last 3 years. Yes he does 50,000 kms a year. My mother used to do 35,000 kms a year. I’m doing 22,000-25,000 a year. Mazda’s warranty works the best without spending extra for an extended warranty.

[@b1uezea1ot]

As a CVT hater, I would pick Honda CVT over this ridiculous 6 speed. 6 Speed on 2021 is an insult to the customers.

[@kevinW826]

@@b1uezea1ot please. The 6 speed is bulletproof and will outlast any CVT. I’m seeing more and more with 300,000 kms or more. No CVTs even come close

[@matingly23]

0-60 6.2 would be with 87 Octane fuel.

[@charleybarley914]

this thing is a bit of a sleeper...I like it

[@jeffruebens8355]

I think you should wait for the April 2021 Consumer Reports magazine at a library, to see what vehicles won for owner satisfaction. For 2020, winners included the Elantra GT, Civic, Crosstrek, Kona, and CX-5. Mazdas often have better steering feel. I think the Crosstrek has better brake feel, from my test drive.

[@xTouragx]

Good Review Alex thank you...overall to me Mazda is now what VW used to be..minimalistic looking driver focused cars at a good value...none of these items are real show stoppers for me..especially considering it has AWD...now if I could only fit in said vehicle (Im 6'2" 250 lb+) that would be another story..I guess I will have to look at the CX5 turbo instead.

[@daveycody]

length with license plate holder is 173.0 inches

[@markg1531]

An excellent car. And beautiful, too. I love it!

[@Marco-ce8kr]

Body cladding? need to see it in person. Maintenance is a pain in the rear at least you use Cerakote ceramic trim coat , at least every 2 months

[@sowhat6247]

Torsion Beam Rear Axle....?! They found the suspension design in 1982.

[@robertstv8045]

250 HP is punching way above it's weight class. Solid value.

[@DavidDLee]

I believe not many Mazda shoppers would look at a Buick. Despite GM making significant advancements, it is still hard to put them in the same category. On the other hand, based on comments I read in owner forums, quite a few BMW/MB/Audi and probably Volvo buyers do cross shop Mazda. Of course, Honda/Toyota/Nissan shoppers as well, though Mazda has less dealerships and thus less name recognition.