CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.2 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 37.2%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 400
Average Price: Around £7,900

Mazda CX-30 (2019-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Head-turning looks, inside and out	Skyactiv-X engine is sophisticated, but sluggish in the mid-range
Good to drive	Rear legroom is in short supply
Choice of front- and four-wheel drive	Boot is small and lacks clever features

Quick Summary

The Mazda CX-30 (2019-present) is a stylish compact SUV based on the Mazda3 platform, offering head-turning design both inside and out. The minimalist cabin is exceptionally well made with BMW-quality materials, whilst all models feature a head-up display and an intuitive rotary dial infotainment system. With a 430-litre boot and choice of front- or four-wheel drive, it provides practical versatility for everyday driving. Two 2.0-litre petrol engines are available: the older Skyactiv-G (120bhp) and the more advanced Skyactiv-X (178bhp) with compression ignition technology, both featuring mild hybrid systems.

The CX-30 is a pleasure to drive with responsive steering, smooth ride quality, and lively handling, complemented by one of the best manual gearshifts in its class. The Skyactiv-X engine delivers impressive official fuel economy of 47.9mpg (around 40mpg in real-world driving), though it can feel sluggish in the mid-range. Rear legroom is limited due to the shorter wheelbase, and the boot lacks the clever storage features found in some rivals. Service intervals are every 12,500 miles or 12 months, with optional service plans available to spread costs. Despite its drawbacks, the CX-30 appeals to buyers captivated by its distinctive styling and engaging driving experience.

Best for: Style-conscious buyers seeking an eye-catching compact SUV with engaging driving dynamics, good build quality, and the option of all-wheel drive.

Not ideal for: Those prioritising rear passenger space, maximum boot capacity, or mid-range engine performance, or buyers seeking the most practical compact SUV in its class.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the CX-30 if: You're drawn to distinctive styling, value engaging driving dynamics, appreciate quality interior design, and want the flexibility of all-wheel drive availability.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise maximum rear passenger space, the largest boot capacity, or the most practical compact SUV, or you need strong mid-range engine performance.

Competitive Position: The Mazda CX-30 is a stylish and engaging compact SUV that stands out for its design and driving experience. However, it faces stiff competition from more practical rivals. The Skoda Karoq leads the segment with superior space, practicality, and value, whilst the Volvo XC40 offers premium appeal and strong user ratings. The Seat Ateca provides a balanced alternative. The CX-30's appeal lies primarily in its distinctive looks and driving enjoyment rather than outright practicality, making it ideal for buyers willing to compromise space for style and engagement.

Read our full Mazda CX-30 Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from July 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.