2021 Mazda CX-30 vs 2021 Nissan Kicks

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 presented a bold aesthetic with its introduction of the 2.5 Turbo model. This version featured exclusive shiny black 18-inch wheels, a shiny black grille, and side mirror housings, complemented by thick matte black body cladding. Mazda's design aimed to give the CX-30 Turbo a light and agile appearance, as if the body floated over the wheels. This effect was consistent, making the CX-30 appear as though it was perpetually in motion, even when stationary. The styling set it apart from the Mazda3 hatchback, on which it was based, with a higher ground clearance that was both perceptual and actual. Inside, the CX-30's cabin mirrored the Mazda3's, offering quality materials, complementary tones, and stitched chocolate brown surfaces, creating an upscale vibe. The GT trim, where the turbocharged engine became available, included black or white leather as standard.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Kicks underwent significant exterior changes, aligning its design more closely with the new Nissan Armada, Ariya, and Rogue. The Kicks featured a snubbed nose with a deep V-motion design, paired with a "double V-motion" feature. The headlights were thinner and longer, extending down the face of the vehicle, with LED multi-reflector headlights and fog lights standard on higher trims. The rear of the Kicks showcased a new bumper and LED taillight combination, giving it a proportionate look reminiscent of the Nissan Leaf. The Kicks offered a variety of new paint options and maintained its two-tone paint job with a floating roof. The SR Premium trim added sporty elements like LED headlights, black heated mirrors, and a dark chrome grille. The interior, inspired by the 2020 Nissan Sentra, featured higher quality materials and new seat designs, with the SR Premium offering Prima-Tex-appointed seating.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo was equipped with a turbocharged Skyactiv 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing between 227 and 250 horsepower, depending on the fuel's octane rating. It delivered 310 to 320 lb-ft of torque, ensuring strong acceleration at lower engine speeds. The CX-30 Turbo's fuel efficiency was rated at 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with a real-world average of 9.6 L/100 km. The vehicle's i-Activ AWD system and G-Vectoring Control Plus technology contributed to its dynamic performance, distributing power effectively to the rear wheels. Despite its added height and weight compared to the Mazda3, the CX-30 Turbo offered a sophisticated driving experience, with an Off-Road mode enhancing its capability on rough terrain.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks, on the other hand, came with a single powertrain option: a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine producing 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a CVT and FWD, the Kicks was not designed for high performance but offered a nimble driving experience, aided by its electric power-assisted steering and independent strut suspension. The Kicks' fuel efficiency was impressive, with ratings of 7.7 L/100 km in the city, 6.6 on the highway, and 7.2 combined. Despite its modest power, the Kicks maintained stability on icy roads and provided a quiet cabin, though the CVT could become noisy under heavy acceleration.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo offered a comfortable and driver-focused interior, with eight-way manual adjustment for the driver's seat and heated front seats as standard. The cabin's design emphasized spaciousness, though rear-seat accommodations were cramped for adults. The CX-30 provided 572 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,280 litres with the rear seats folded. However, the location of the optional wireless smartphone charger limited storage options in the centre console.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks maximized its small size with easy-to-reach controls and good small-item storage. It featured a six-way adjustable driver's seat, a four-way adjustable front passenger seat, and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat. The Kicks offered best-in-class front seat legroom, though hip room was limited. The rear cargo area included a tonneau cover for hidden storage. The Kicks' interior was practical and well-designed, with an electronic parking brake freeing up centre console space.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo featured an 8.8-inch infotainment display operated via physical controls and voice commands. While the system required acclimation, it offered standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GT trim added SiriusXM, navigation, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The Active Driving Display projected useful data onto the windshield, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks offered a robust suite of technology, with a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth as standard. The SR Premium trim included a Bose Personal Plus sound system with headrest speakers, providing an immersive audio experience. The Kicks also featured a surround-view monitor, aiding in parking and manoeuvring.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, with a full suite of safety features and ADAS. The GT trim added adaptive front lighting, parking sensors, and rear automatic emergency braking.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks came standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360, offering a comprehensive set of driver-assistance features. While not crash-tested by the IIHS for 2021, the Kicks had a strong safety record and received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA.