2022 Mazda CX-30 vs 2021 Mazda CX-30

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo was a striking vehicle, especially for those who appreciated a bold black aesthetic. It featured exclusive shiny black 18-inch wheels, a shiny black grille, and side mirror housings, complemented by thick matte black body cladding. This design choice gave the CX-30 Turbo a unique, floating appearance, as if it was perpetually cresting a hill. While the styling was distinct from the Mazda3 hatchback on which it was based, the CX-30 stood higher off the ground, both visually and physically. Inside, the cabin mirrored the Mazda3's, offering quality materials and an upscale vibe with stitched chocolate brown surfaces. The 2021 model also included a chrome accent around the engine start button and a standard frameless rearview mirror, with black or white leather available in the GT trim.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30, on the other hand, had a design reminiscent of a downsized CX-5, with an upright grille and smooth, flowing fenders. It shared its platform with the Mazda3, essentially serving as a raised version of the hatchback. The windshield was notably raked, acting like a greenhouse on sunny days, and its slight curve could distort the view for taller drivers. Inside, the cabin was comfortable and quiet, with a blend of conventional and digital displays. The infotainment screen rose organically from the dashboard, though its usability was hindered by a steep learning curve. The 2022 model offered trim levels GX, GS, and GT, with features like heated front seats, rain-sensing wipers, and a standard AWD drivetrain. The GT trim included a power liftgate, paddle shifters, and a head-up display, with the turbocharged engine available as an upgrade.

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 lb-ft of torque at 2,000 rpm or 320 lb-ft at 2,500 rpm, ensuring consistent acceleration at lower speeds. The vehicle'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 CX-30 Turbo's i-Activ AWD system actively distributed power to the rear wheels, enhancing traction and response. However, its added height and weight made it less agile than the Mazda3, though it excelled in off-road conditions with an Off-Road mode.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 offered a base 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque in the GX trim. The GS and GT trims featured a 2.5-litre engine with 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. The turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, available in the GT trim, produced 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque on regular fuel, and 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft on premium fuel. The CX-30's sporty ride was complemented by well-weighted steering and quick turn-in, though it could be rough over potholes. The suspension performed well on dirt and gravel roads, but craggy paved roads posed a challenge.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo offered a comfortable driving experience with eight-way manual seat adjustment and heated front seats. The cabin's design focused on the driver, creating an intimate yet spacious feel. However, rear-seat space was limited, making it less suitable for long journeys with adults. The cargo space was 572 litres with the rear seats up and 1,280 litres with them folded, similar to the Mazda3 hatchback. The centre console's design forced a choice between storage and wireless phone charging.

In the 2022 Mazda CX-30, cargo space remained at 572 litres with the seats up and 1,280 litres with them folded. The GT trim featured a power rear liftgate. The front seats had a sliding centre console cover, which could get stuck when the rear seats were folded. The rear seats provided adequate headroom for short-to-medium trips, though longer drives might be uncomfortable for adults.

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

The 2022 Mazda CX-30's infotainment system was controlled by a rotary dial and toggle buttons, inspired by luxury-car systems like BMW's iDrive. However, the lack of touch functionality made it cumbersome, especially when using Apple CarPlay. The system's usability was a challenge, even after setup. The GT trim included a head-up display and a 360-degree parking camera, which proved helpful.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating. It came with a full suite of safety features, including an adaptive front lighting system and parking sensors.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five stars from the NHTSA. It offered driver-assistance features like forward collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The GT trim included adaptive front headlights and a 360-degree parking camera.