The truth is that it's getting hard to keep track of all the compact SUVs in the market today. However, one of those models stands out in some notable ways. The 2021 Mazda CX-30 is unique because of its understated elegance, its solid engine choices, its advanced technology, and perhaps most importantly, its competitive pricing structure.
Is There Anything New for 2021?
The CX-30 was introduced in 2020, so Mazda wasn't quite ready to make any drastic changes to it for the 2021 model year. What the company has put in - standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto - should make a lot of customers happy. For 2021, there's also an additional engine option. It's a turbocharged version that can significantly boost horsepower.
Driving Experience
Most of the CX-30 trims come standard with a 2.5-liter engine. It has four cylinders and variable valve timing, and it can generate 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. Since the CX-30 is on the smaller side, it's not like it needs a huge engine to power it. This engine is definitely strong enough to make the CX-30 fun to drive and easy to handle in a variety of situations.
Poised to hit the market is a turbocharged version of the Mazda CX-30. The 2.5 Turbo will benefit from having a much more impressive 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. This takes the SUV to a new level in terms of performance, and it definitely presents an intriguing opportunity.
The 2.5 Turbo is exclusively offered as an all-wheel-drive model. All the others can come with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Mazda uses something called i-ACTIV AWD. This system is always monitoring what's going on with the vehicle, keeping track of everything from wheel speed and braking to the steering input and windshield wiper activity. By doing so, it can predict when the power delivery needs to be adjusted, and it can take action before problems arise. This results in excellent handling even when the conditions are poor.
Safety Components
Mazda has put a lot of effort into keeping its passengers safe. Of course, the 2021 Mazda CX-30 comes with all of the usual elements, such as anti-lock brakes, three-point seatbelts in all five seating positions, and a tire pressure monitoring system. It also has several advanced systems that can keep an eye on what's going on and take action if the situation calls for it.
Driver-assist technology is becoming more commonly found in new vehicles, and it's a big selling point. Fortunately for the CX-30, even the standard trim has automatic high beams, an alert system that warns drivers when they're not paying close enough attention to the roads, and a special cruise control system that enables the Mazda to adjust its speed depending on the speed of the vehicle in front of it. Plus, the CX-30 has lane departure warning and lane-keep assist so that people won't dangerously drift to one side or the other.
One of the key elements to the safety package on the CX-30 is Smart Brake Support. This program can sense when a frontal collision is likely. In this scenario, the driver would be alerted to the issue. If the driver doesn't respond quickly enough, the vehicle can apply pressure to the brakes. The vehicle also helps if the driver does put his/her foot on the brakes by priming the brakes to work as hard as possible.
The higher trims have blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic monitoring. These are useful because there are situations in which drivers can't see all around them.
Trims
There are four trims of the CX-30. The most basic one is called the CX-30 2.5 S. It has a low price that may surprise some potential customers, in a good way, and it still comes with a comprehensive safety package, push button start, and smartphone compatibility.
Like the 2.5 S, the Select trim has an 8.8-inch center display and HD Radio. It adds an advanced keyless entry system, leatherette seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel to the list of standard features. These elements help it feel a little more upscale, and again, it's important to remember that this trim is priced a lot lower than many other models.
The Preferred trim is the next level up. It can keep people more comfortable with heated front seats, and it has a power-adjustable driver's seat. Its side mirrors can actually do a lot; they have turn signals built into them, can be programmed to remember a favorite position, and can be tilted down to help guide drivers when they're in reverse. In addition, the Preferred may be attractive to many because it has a power moonroof.
At the top of the lineup is the Premium. It's distinct because of its signature LED headlights and standard roof rails. It's the only trim to have a rear power liftgate that can be quite convenient when someone's hands are full. Passengers will appreciate the fact that it has SiriusXM Satellite Radio and 12 Bose speakers, and drivers could potentially get a lot of use from the vehicle's navigation system.
At the time of the writing of this overview, details about the Turbo have yet to be released. It's likely that the Turbo versions will be on the more upscale side, treating people to an exciting ride and high-end amenities.
Formula for Calculating Dealer Cost:
Total Dealer Cost - Rebate and Incentive + Taxes / Licensing Fees = True Dealer Cost. (You can get rebates and incentives here.)
Note: All Mazda CX-30 MSRP, invoice and dealer cost dollar figures above are approximate amounts. Prices are subject to change without notice.
A note about rebates: Most rebates are subtracted from the "on the road" figure. In most cases, you can have the rebate if you are arranging your own financing or you are paying cash. If you decide to use the manufacturer’s low interest financing, you do not usually get the rebate. Ask your dealer for details.
