Is the 2023 Mazda CX-30 Turbo a better AWD SUV than a Dodge Hornet?

The CX-30 is Mazda's smallest SUV. On the outside you will discover 18in wheels, duel-outlet exhaust and LED lighting. On the inside is an 8.8in infotainment system, leather seating and sunroof. Under the hood is a 2.5L turbocharged inline-4 that is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Is the 2023 Mazda CX-30 Turbo a better AWD SUV than a Dodge Hornet?
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Videography:Steven Flood 🎥

[@RaitisRides]

Hey everyone! Sorry his one is late. Lori & I just got into Colorado for the first drive of the C8 E-Ray. Thank you for understanding!

[@Aschoolbusandsimulatorfan2219]

No worries!

[@RaitisRides]

@@Aschoolbusandsimulatorfan2219I I really appreciate that

[@chrisgelo1425]

C8 E ray is hell worth the wait Joe 👌

[@glenbavero7971]

Welcome Joe and Lori to Colorado; I live in Aurora.

[@Thebusdriverandgamermorefan790]

No worries!

[@GabouryMatt]

The Mazda beats out the Hornet without question. Reliability, styling, interior quality. Not even close as far as I'm concerned

[@justintyme7213]

You are 100% right!👍

[@LifeCycle1978]

I agree but man I wish they would ditch the plastic cladding.

[@EazybakeEvan]

​@LifeCycle1978 you gotta get it in black and the cladding doesn't seem as bad.

[@JoeE.]

Since the Hornet is bigger in size, I think the CX 50 is a more appropriate competitor of the Hornet. In any case, I would still pick a Mazda.

[@Sorelizard]

I chose hornet and I love it

[@FGNi-em9sb]

My girlfriend and I have a year now with our Mazda Cx-30 Turbo and love it! It’s surprisingly quick for a vehicle in its class, handles great and has been super reliable in the first 10k miles no issues at all. Pretty comfortable ride as well and looks great in the soul red metallic color. Overall very happy with this purchase

[@tinhinnh]

well its quick bc it has a turbo

[@619elephant9]

Well, it should be quick with 250hp and 320lb of tq.

[@619elephant9]

It has more tq than most midsize SUVs.

[@chrisgelo1425]

Overall I think Mazda really shines is in the driving engagement and that true zoom zoom. You know what they say, its not just about going A to B, but going to B with A smile on your face 😊

[@maverickflint1991]

The engine looks good with no Ford parts in it👍

[@smooth37]

I remember those days! Super easy to fix because of the abundance of parts availability. The old 323 and Protege 5 Good times. My first 3 had a 6 disc CD changer!

[@Brazo07]

Mazda will never go wrong with it's minimalistic design language

[@fordfiesta1980]

You sealed the deal for me. Been shopping intensely for a winter driver. Don't need flash and you confirmed all the strong points of the CX30 turbo. Will get one by the end of the month. Thank you for the fun review!

[@Fightdog]

I feel for poor Joe out in that heat. He's a real trooper.

[@ultrasummit]

This AWD Turbo and minimalistic design has no rivals in segment. If fuel economy is not important for you this is the car for everyone.

[@rayman1951]

I got mine on August 8. Love it. Sport mode when driving on the twisty roads in Connecticut is a blast. Love the Bose speakers.

[@minipandora22]

The 0-60 mpg time 🏁 is quite impressive! Faster than about 70% of cars on the road.

[@digitaldoc100]

My CX30 handles well, and the infotainment is just fine without a touchscreen. Not a fan of the brown accents in the interior, the gloss black plastic, and the transmission should be an 8 spd. Love taking it onto some back roads, and find myself taking the long way home just to drive it a little more.

[@biggeststeppa1]

Haven't been this early to a Raiti's Rides video in a looong time! Let's get on with the Mazda

[@fugarte2862]

Thanks. I still have 2 years left on my lease on my '22 Mazda 3 Turbo hatchback but the dealership is already sending me new offers. The CX-30 is on my list for my next car. I may trade in the 3 early when the CX-30 Carbon Turbo edition arrives.

[@cormaro13]

Been loving my 22 cx30 preferred, in platinum quartz just touch 35k

[@Aschoolbusandsimulatorfan2219]

I'm thinking of buy a new 23' Mazda CX-30.

[@justintyme7213]

I would pick the Mazda over that Hornet 👍

[@virginiarivas3750]

Your review made me decide. Thanks!!

[@bullittboost6046]

I like the brown accents and the smaller No touch screen. Very clean design at a really good price.

[@dominickirkwood]

Joe keep up the good work and I love the video lot 👏 💯👍

[@jcollins9083]

We got our CX 30 in April. We were a Subaru family, with 2 Foresters (XT) a WRX and a second gen Crosstrek. Not all at once! WRX Sportwagon was 2003, replaced with the ‘13 ForesterXT. I really wanted the stealth and utility of the hatch and waited for Subaru to re-introduce a WRX version-for ten yrs! Finally went and drove the CX 30 Turbo and bought it. Closest thing to that unicorn WRX Sportwagon now available. Zoom zoom. (BTW have a ‘99 Miata too😄)

[@franzalaska9512]

Hey Joe, A key distinction in the premium trim Mazdas is the Bose Audio System - which is a HUGE factor in the driving experience. For this potential buyer, the cost difference between the NA Premium and the Turbo models is moot, I'd pay a little more for the Turbo to get the Bose. I get there are copyright issues, but I'm sure there's a way, perhaps playing royalty free music for a few seconds down the freeway at 70mph to give us an idea what the driver experience is for audio. Whaddya think? Thank you!

[@anthonykiedis1765]

Joe, I just realized you hit 1M subscribers and wanted to congratulate you. Well deserved!

[@fawbz]

Great work bringing us all these rides. Mazda absolutely kills the lighting game.

[@childofgod884]

Come on Raiti we all know that any car is better than a Dodge😅😂

[@Spoolingturbski]

Say that to the TRX, HD Cummins Limited, or the Wrangler Rubicon… Say it to a Challenger Hellcat or Grand Wagoneer…. Nah… Dodge (FCDJ) make an excellent car.

[@justintyme7213]

You got that right! Mazda for the Win!

[@kenricward7022]

These subcompacts are pretty pricey for what you get. I bought a brand new ‘23 Dodge Durango for just $2K more than either the Hornet or CX-30. It has a V6?with 295 hp and tons of cargo capacity and can haul 6,000 pounds. EPA mileage is 21 combined.

[@zero7523]

​@@kenricward7022these Mazda's are almost 5k cheaper in Canada I don't know why, considering Dodge makes their cars here in Brampton Ontario.

[@EazybakeEvan]

@@Spoolingturbski for the price of those vehicles, you can get waaaayy better products than those dog sh1t Stellantis products.

[@EazybakeEvan]

If you're willing to sacrifice some cargo space and a little bit of rear-passenger leg room, this is the best value in the sub-compact crossover class. All the fun of the Mazda 3 Turbo, while also handling the harshness of Canadian winters with ease. Best sound system under $40k CDN as well. To get better (sportier) driving dynamics in this class of vehicle, you're forced to shell out the cash and get an AMG GLA35/45 or Audi RSQ3. Honorable mentions go to the BMW X2 and the Alfa Romeo Tonale. However, while costing more, these candidates lack critical features that give the CX-30 Turbo it's identity i.e. paddle shifters in the Tonale, and overall street performance in the X2. Best bang for your buck in this class. It's my JDM mini Macan lite. EDIT: Raiti has reviewed like 4 or 5 CX-30s in the past couple years and never showed us the Red Leather interior. It would completely shift the vibe of this review.

[@maverickflint1991]

It is a nice turbo all-wheel-drive 👍

[@alicea5]

I went to test drive the CX-30 non-turbo today. The driving was pretty cool. Speed was well especially since I am coming from a Honda Fit. I’m surprised at how well the car cushioned and kept the noise out. My only issue was the lack of cloth option n the dashboard. The top dash felt bulky. It’s weird. I felt like the front was wide but also cramp as well. I had good vision from the windshield but the second I added in the dashboard I feel crowded. I can understand why a reviewer said it might be an issue for people who are claustrophobic. Even my Honda Fit does not feel like that. I hesitate to buy because I don’t know if I’ll adjust.

[@decline666]

I have the CX-30 TPP. Love it. Driving it is super fun for a CUV.

[@phillipp2442]

All it needs is ventilated seats and I'm sold!!! C'mon Mazda!! For me, this is the perfect size SUV. Me and my partner, our little dog, and a road trip for the weekend😊

[@cormaro13]

I feel the same I hate it , hopefully in the coming years it comes with it

[@tycanuck]

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 Turbo is 2000000% better. The math is suspect but so is a Dodge.

[@justintyme7213]

Well said and I couldn’t agree more! 👍

[@Thebusdriverandgamermorefan790]

My favorite new Mazda CX-30 I want to buy.

[@maverickflint1991]

Put it in the shade it is a little warm there.🙂👍

[@Anamnesis]

The turbo is great, but if Mazda really wants to thrive, they need a fuel efficient hybrid option too.

[@shamako4ever718]

Alright Joe let’s see what we got here with Mazda

[@joeanunez]

I have a ‘21 CX-30 Turbo Premium Plus in soul red crystal metallic with the white leather interior. It’s absolutely a blast to drive, the materials quality are top notch, my favorite infotainment system and super reliable. My only zonk is the lack of rear seat room.

[@MrHomerunhitter01]

How’s it run now? Thinking about getting one?

[@joeanunez]

@@MrHomerunhitter01 running great! No issues.

[@MrHomerunhitter01]

@@joeanunez how many miles if you don’t mind me asking?

[@joeanunez]

@@MrHomerunhitter01 currently at 48K miles.

[@MrHomerunhitter01]

@@joeanunez I appreciate your feedback, thank you!

[@wardellward]

Say joe is this premium unleaded recommend

[@mattmekhaeil]

If you use regular fuel you’ll get 227 horsepower and if you use premium fuel you’ll get all the horses at 250

[@wardellward]

@@mattmekhaeil so u could use both

[@smss1993]

I love mine. I think it not having a touch screen helps with the infotainment not lagging, which was a common issue in my previous Honda. My biggest complaint with my car is the small gas tank. I get 250 miles at best. I prefer having to visit the gas station less and pay a little more.

[@maverickflint1991]

I bet you the Bose sound system sounds good 👍

[@bretth1558]

Best in the market and even above in the 50K range, i promise you that. It is the last thing making me hold on to my cx-30 before i get a more off road suited vehicle

[@mattmekhaeil]

That’s what got in my 2006 a6 sounds excellent

[@AmmaLove24]

It's interesting, as I'm watching you drive this I am realizing how much more bumpy and shaky my CX -30 is compared to this. I have a non turbo and it seems like this drives a whole lot smoother than mine.

[@lenielalvarez2784]

Nice 😮😮😮

[@davidp2888]

The black wheels and wheel arches aren't doing it for me. Either put silver wheels on it or get rid of the black wheel arch treatment.

[@bennny6988]

The Sloth is in the body shop.. so I have a 24 CX-30 as a rental an I'm in love with it

[@jasondickens9003]

Joe in the CX30 can you sit comfortably behind your drivers seat adjusted to you comfort level?

[@tony4God]

J, it's 200 degrees w/ 800% humidity here in Springberg, Missouri lol

[@wangy00]

How is the lane keep assist? What speeds does it work up to? I want something like kias lane assist

[@oonwing]

Very cool

[@carlosmoreira779]

Hey Joe! Stay cool!

[@gerechoppers]

I got a CX-5 Carbon Edition for my wife. The control knob for the infotainment is awesome. I was a little unsure at first, but not having finger prints all over it is so much better. It’s really smooth and I figured it out pretty quickly….and I’m old. 😂

[@diamondknight4815]

Even if I got one without the turbo, it would be just as nice to drive imo. No need for turbo really, has enough as is ❤

[@nisalk]

I got MX-30 which is on the same platform as this and I quite like the MX-30 over this due to its coupe type styling

[@stevenjames1138]

Mazda manufactures these in Mexico, which worries me a little.The reason they do that is to cut costs, but that also means that maybe the assembly quality isn't as good. For contrast, they manufacture the CX-5 in Japan, I believe. Of course, Mazda is not alone in this. A lot of car companies manufacture their less expensive vehicles in Mexico to save on labor costs. Nevertheless, I'd personally rather have a car made in Japan than in Mexico. (No offense to anyone from Mexico, but labor costs are cheaper there for a reason.)

[@wocaomade]

Ok, if you realize that audi sq5 is also made in Mexico, would you still worry about the quality tho? I mean sq5 is not a cheap vehicle for most people...

[@stevenjames1138]

@@wocaomade I’d worry about the quality (at least long term) of any Audi! 😜 European cars are fun and cool, but quickly become money pits as they age. They’re not built to last.

[@cormaro13]

​@stevenjamesdeblasi2207 if it helps I own both , 2021 cx5 Japan made with 72k mileage, no problems and 2022 cx30 with 35k mileage I actually like driving the cx30 at times over the cx5 just cause it's small and nibble with awd lol but no problems so far even with ratting but then again I have a 10 inch sub in the back 😆 but overall I really like it the cx30 , hasn't let me down or had any recalls sent to me / also looking up the vin

[@berniemadoff7837]

Thanks for the heads up. Definitely affects my decision more towards the Impreza RS built in Japan.

[@EazybakeEvan]

Had my Mexico-built cx30 for 5 months now. Did a thorough ass inspection myself cause I was skeptical about Mexican build quality... not a single frickin issue and this thing is sweet.

[@JoeBlunt]

I don't understand the turn signals at the bottom of the bumper instead of integrated into the headlamp

[@JeromyGreen]

10:48 Joe did you break the center console by pulling it up before sliding? 😂

[@cryptidc6104]

Nope. Need to slide back before you can open the center console. Close the top and then slide up to have total closure.

[@rakhsiprayogo82]

This Mazda CX 30 Turbo Compared with - BMW X1 - Audi Q3 - Mercedes GLA - Jaguar I Pace/E Pace - Toyota CHR - Nissan Kicks - Honda HRV - Kia Seltos - Hyundai Kona - Subaru Crosstrek - Volvo XC40 - Volkswagen T roc - Ford Puma - And More

[@JS-qj2sg]

Hi Mr car expert job well done if you was to choose between toyota rav4, Honda CRV, mazda CX5, or mazda CX50 what would be your choice please reply I am looking forward for your answer thanks 😊 stay safe.

[@jimmyacosta1884]

Mazda cx50

[@cormaro13]

Mazda all day, take both for a test drive and see how u like them

[@jayrbagnes4661]

Mazda because 2.5turbo

[@maverickflint1991]

ZOOM ZOOM

[@vanessaredford9731]

The cup holders are frustrating. A panoramic roof would've given this a "next level" feel. BUT... I would never take a Dodge over a Mazda. Thanks for another great video! 🙌

[@nachomandetailingservices1057]

Now we talking … Mazda #1

[@baohoaily]

It’ll be infinitely more reliable!

[@jasondickens9003]

Nice how Mazda carpeted the readies of the cargo area. They seemed to have forgotten this in their new upscale CX90. The carpeted side cargo execution is signal of premium based as opposed to hard plastic a signal of commodity based

[@VanquishedAgain]

Eh, I think it's more about durability.

[@kingkrimson8771]

Bigger ain't always better when it comes to wheels. Bigger wheels come with lower profile tires, which on the crap roads I drive on is a definite zonk. Less tire sidewall to absorb those potholes.

[@thomobrien1854]

I put a set of 235/50R18 V rated tires on my CX30 and it brings the handling up to where it should be. You could probably go to a 245/50R18 as well … it’s within the 3% range.

[@flanerpete2040]

A non-marshmallow driver from Colorado who also thinks the brown trim on black is weird. My '09 Speed3 still offers that zoom zoom experience.

[@alanklaus7774]

My wife would be happy with the 8.8 inch screen but not much else. Owned a Mazda 626 years ago. Liked the car but not the Mazda experience. Surprised Dodge is even selling cars since they dropped their best sellers for 24. The CX-30 is not too attractive in or out. Enjoy Colorado.

[@mystictk4149]

I like the CX-30 better for sure, the Hornet isn't bad at all, I wish Mazda did a little better with this and gave more of a "WOW" feeling.

[@Truth-op3be]

Mazda definitely a must ‼️‼️

[@islanddon865]

The CX is a fun daily hauler for a couple. We looked hard and long, but opted for the UX because we want that unit to be a "Long Hauler" (150+k).

[@omendarklight1526]

Really thinking about adding the UX to my Lexus family, but how is it on country roads?

[@islanddon865]

@@omendarklight1526 Straight talk. The ride is very good in spite of run flats. But the handling is crisp and tossable. We live in rugged mountains. But don't need 4wd. The engine is not butt kicking. But we averaged 31mpg from Day #1. We have HOT weather here, but the gas mileage is good. We love the look. It looks best in White, or that Cobalt Blue. Zero problems in 40,000 miles. Interior on the base unit is classy, not splashy like the F Sport. This car is for an active single/couple, or a family of four. This is a Weekend Warrior, not a Family Campground Queen. We won't sell this till at least 150k, like our other older ES with 175k. The one we just sold had 225k! However, certain interior finishes that are a bit lacking in the rear. Hard plastics on the door, hard plastic in corners of the seating, no rear seat recline. Nothing serious. I'm pissy because I sat in the back for 6 hrs yesterday. Otherwise, l never would've known!!!😆😆😆 There is really

[@phillipyau4234]

😊❤ hey what's happening Joel just hit the turbo boost & away we go😮

[@eDENTECHNOCYBERHUB]

YOUR BIGGEST KENYAN FAN RIGHT HERE, AS USUAL, 12/09/2023

[@jamiehalifax4954]

I love my cx3

[@RaitisRides]

That is so great to hear Jamie!

[@adamszymanowski4304]

This is a Premium Plus in Pearl white which is also an up charge. MSRP is more like $37,500 definitely not 35K😀

[@residentalienzed]

yoo 11:11 - 11:24 😂hilarious

[@maverickflint1991]

You do not look like you have a 37 year old daughter sir 🙂👍

[@patrickgagnon9662]

If you pair your phone to car , it is a touchscreen ...menu surf Vehicle connectivity.

[@tony4God]

JJ > I have a hankering for me some ZOOM ZOOM, love tony p.s. stay safe if Lee slams your hood : )

[@dad242]

Nice vehicle but just a little more money You can get the CX5 Turbo. Much better.

[@AIDAHAR210]

Definitely beats the Hornet without question. Just paint the lower panels body color and install some coilovers, and it really will look like a proper hatchback

[@MoeCamera]

The black cladding all around the vehicle is a big deal breaker for me and the prop rod I don’t like either. It’s 2023 no need for prop rods especially for a vehicle over 35k

[@chrisb7507]

What I’ve noticed from a number of vehicles, it’s either missing air vents in the back but has connectivity ( Honda civic , CRV etc ) has air vents but no connectivity ( this Mazda and others ) 3 stages of heated seats and no ventilated or heated steering wheel , 3 stages of heated and ventilated seats but no heated steering wheel , slick led headlights with questionable lower vents and no fog lights ( Honda crv etc ) slick taillights with led and halogen lights and no exhaust even if it’s a sport , fake exhaust, no rear connectivity or air vents ( Honda accord ?.. ) I don’t know.. why can’t car companies build something that has everything for once lol.. so people will get what they paid for because we sure as hell know cars/suvs/trucks aren’t cheap.. Big example: my dads jeep Cherokee 2022 limited ( the smaller one, sub compact is the word?.. ) has panoramic sunroof w/tilt open and close, heated steering wheel, 3 stages heated and ventilated seats, has rear ac vents and connectivity with its own climate control, different driving modes, automatic dimming inside mirror, has slick front and back end with full led lights and fog lights and exhaust.

[@bretth1558]

I love my Turbo, i added a JB4 and an Intake / Muffler Delete and it really woke the car up plus gave me the ability to gap some v8s and other cars such as a stock Kona N until i hit my limiter of course.

[@esp9sram]

A jb4 should have eliminated your limiter. Interesting

[@bretth1558]

@@esp9sram sadly it does not for the mazda spec tunes, i presume its due to my tiny axle shafts lol.

[@slappadabass1977]

Love this car. Have a 2020 in red and it's fun to drive.

[@csmac3144a]

I have one. Not bad but 50 more ponies would make it fantastic.

[@jimmydeneus7109]

💯💯💯💯💯💯

[@seadoo4life127]

I think my brand new 1990 Mustang LX 5.0 had the same 0-60 lol

[@maverickflint1991]

I like it a lot because it is Mazda and Ford does not own any of it anymore!!! 🙂👍

[@ograpeo9011]

my yeti fits fine

[@mikeossola6397]

Same here.

[@Cheapchase]

Yes.

[@maverickflint1991]

That Cadillac or Toyota they are not using their blinker!!!

[@rrange]

Dear Mazda, PLZ GIVE US THICKER STEERING WHEELS!!

[@MrHomerunhitter01]

Does anyone have one of these with high mileage and if so how much?

[@kurtr1870]

We have a CX 30 Turbo and it's fun to drive. Stellantis has build quality and reliability issues across the board.

[@Spoolingturbski]

I feel like Mazda is trying to be something they are not. They missed the mark with the CX90 and it’s trickling down to the lower models. Less trying to be premium and more Zoom Zoom.

[@Bluesky1ification]

It better then Honda Accord! Sorry! had to say it 😬

[@allenparks8706]

Glad you said it..

[@tomdrummy4984]

Sorry, I’m late too Joe. Lol. Less black cladding Mazda, please .

[@KO-iw3vu]

Sure looks better

[@rosak9312]

Oh wow so great 👍 and very beautiful 😍❤️ and very beautiful the engine 🚂🚒 hybrid very strong and powerful for the off 🛣️ road 💪🛣️ or high way and very good design with the new 🆕 technology for the new 🆕 generation hument and very easy to drive and comfortable ❤

[@maverickflint1991]

It looks like there's too many people living there.👍

[@RealKevGotEm]

If Mazda would tune the new I6 to have 400hp and 370lb torque that would be the vehicle 😍

[@user-oy8fn5hs2w]

What is interesting about the Hornet is it breaks down on reviewers. LOL If it doesn't run, it is not competition for anything other than temporary lawn ornaments.

[@davidryder5082]

Yes it's better

[@markcoopers1930]

Wow. Can really find anything on ebay.

[@1dchingon]

Just mentioning Dodge.... Ahhhh no thanks. None for me thanks, im driving 😅 No matter what bells n whistles Dodge offers 😱🤮