Mazda CX-3 vs. CX-30: Which crossover to choose

Introduced for the 2020 model year, the Mazda CX-30 is Mazda's newest SUV. Positioning itself between the CX-3 and CX-5 sizewise, with its all-wheel drive and comprehensive equipment, the 2021 CX-30 is an ideal vehicle for active families, city dwellers on the go and outdoor enthusiasts. In fact, it's the perfect SUV for people who love to drive. Its little brother, the new Mazda CX-3, is the smallest SUV in the Mazda lineup. Building on its popular success, the CX-3 is the perfect vehicle for the city. According to Car and Driver magazine, the CX-3 offers the experience of “an SUV for those who like to drive cars,” while the CX-30 offers “the car experience for those who like to drive SUVs.”

CX-3 vs CX-30

A CX-3 vs. CX-30 match was inevitable in that these two vehicles are among the best SUVs on the market. The 2021 Mazda CX-30 is powered by a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine that generates 155 horsepower and offers a fuel economy of 7.1 L/100 km on the highway. Two engines are available as options: a 2.5L 4-cylinder that develops 186 horsepower or a powerful 2.5L 4-cylinder generating up to 250 horsepower (and 320 lb-ft of torque). A 6-speed automatic transmission transfers power to the front wheels or all four wheels (available on the GX and GS trims). All-wheel drive is available at an additional cost. Unlike the CX-3, the manual transmission option is not available on the CX-30. If power and sporty handling are among your priorities, the CX-30 should be considered more seriously.

Less powerful and less expensive than the CX-30, the CX-3 is offered with a manual transmission. So, if you like to change gears yourself, the CX-3 is for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for more space for you and your occupants (both vehicles offer room for five occupants and their luggage) and higher ground clearance (154 mm for the CX-3, 203 mm for the CX-30), the CX-30 will be your preferred choice. Regardless, a CX-30 vs. CX-3 comparison match only has winners.

Mazda SUVs bodywork

The CX-30's coupe-style body and rear window give its silhouette a distinctly European feel. The aesthetics are pleasing to the eye, resulting in a cabin that's slightly more spacious than the CX-3. And if your budget is your main concern, it will be satisfied with the Mazda CX-3, the price of which is slightly lower than that of the Mazda CX-30: starting price for the 2021 Mazda CX-30 is at $24,550 (base model); pricing for the Mazda CX-3 starts at $21,300. In both cases, add about $2,000 or more for the all-wheel drive.

As with all Mazda vehicles, both the CX-30 and CX-3 benefit from impeccable finish, both inside and out. The quality of the materials and the luxury of the interior are praised around the world, and many automotive journalists consider the luxury and comfort of these vehicles to be on par with that of the BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi vehicles of this world. In addition, the CX-30 and CX-3 offer standard compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

From the moment it arrived at Mazda dealerships, the CX-30 immediately won the public's favour thanks to its attractive look, sumptuous interior, quiet ride, practicality, but also for the pleasure you get behind the wheel.

Safe SUVs

In terms of safety, both vehicles are equipped with the latest technologies. The CX-3 offers standard wide-angle rearview camera, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Advanced Blind-Spot Monitoring, Smart City Brake Assist in the front and even more. The CX-30 offers all of this plus LED headlights and daytime running lights as well as Electronic Parking Brake.

Whether you choose a new or pre-owned CX-30 or CX-3, your Mazda dealer offers financing solutions for the purchase or lease of a Mazda car or SUV. Residents of Montreal, Laval, the South Shore and across the province are invited to visit a Mazda dealership for a secure test drive of the Mazda vehicle of your choice.