by The 2026 Mazda CX30 is a compact SUV that blends sharp design with great performance and everyday comfort. This popular crossover from Mazda continues to impress with its upscale feel, strong features, and smart value for money. Whether you’re driving in the city or taking a weekend trip, the CX-30 offers a fun and practical ride.
Let’s explore what’s new for 2026 and why this compact SUV by Mazda might be the right choice for you.
What’s New in the 2026 Mazda CX-30?
Mazda keeps the CX-30 fresh with several updates for 2026. The exterior has a slightly sharper front grille and new LED lighting for better visibility and a modern look. You’ll also find new color options, including a sleek Deep Blue and a fresh Sand Metallic.
On the inside, Mazda added a larger 10.25-inch infotainment screen with faster response times. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard across all trims. There’s also a new driver-assistance package included on most models, boosting overall safety and convenience.
Key updates:
- Refreshed front design and lighting
- Larger, more responsive touchscreen
- Wireless smartphone integration standard
- New safety tech bundle on mid and upper trims
Performance and Engine Options
The 2026 Mazda CX30 still offers two engine choices. The base model comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 191 horsepower. For more power, there’s a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine with up to 250 horsepower when using premium fuel.
Both engines come with a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive (AWD) is standard on all models, which is a nice bonus in this segment.
Mazda CX-30 specs – Performance:
- Base engine: 2.5L, 191 hp, 186 lb-ft torque
- Turbo engine: 2.5L Turbo, up to 250 hp
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Standard AWD
- Fuel economy: Estimated 26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway (base)
The CX-30 handles better than most rivals, offering a sporty drive while staying smooth and quiet.
Interior and Comfort
Step inside the 2026 Mazda crossover, and you’ll see why it stands out. The cabin feels upscale, with high-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and solid build quality. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even for long drives.
The layout is clean and simple. The new infotainment screen sits on top of the dash, controlled by a center dial. While some may prefer a touchscreen, Mazda’s system is easy to use once you get used to it.
There’s good space in the front and back for a compact SUV. The rear seats fold down flat, making it easy to load cargo.
Interior highlights:
- 10.25-inch infotainment screen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Optional leather seats and power-adjustable front seats
- 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind rear seats
- Dual-zone climate control on select trims
Safety Features
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 continues to shine in safety. It includes a long list of standard driver aids. Mazda also improved its optional safety suite, adding better sensors and a more advanced adaptive cruise control.
Standard safety features:
- Forward Collision Warning with Auto Emergency Braking
- Lane Departure Warning with Lane-Keep Assist
- Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Driver attention alert system
Optional upgrades:
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go
- 360-degree camera system
- Traffic sign recognition
The CX-30 is expected to maintain its top safety ratings, making it a smart pick for families and safety-focused buyers.
Trim Levels and Pricing
Mazda offers the CX-30 in several trims to fit different needs and budgets. All trims now come with AWD and a solid list of standard features.
Estimated 2026 Mazda CX-30 price by trim:
- CX-30 2.5 S – Starting around $26,000
- CX-30 Select Sport – Around $28,000
- CX-30 Preferred – Around $30,000
- CX-30 Premium – Around $32,500
- CX-30 Turbo Premium – Around $35,000
- CX-30 Turbo Premium Plus – Up to $38,000
Each step up adds more comfort, tech, and performance, especially with the turbo models.
Comparison with Competitors
The 2026 Mazda CX30 competes with other compact crossovers like the Honda HR-V, Toyota Corolla Cross, Hyundai Kona, and Subaru Crosstrek.
How it compares:
- Handling: Better than most in this class
- Interior quality: Feels more premium than HR-V or Kona
- Tech: Keeps up with Hyundai and Toyota on features
- Pricing: Competitive, especially with standard AWD
- Space: Less rear seat and cargo space than Crosstrek
If you care more about style, driving feel, and cabin quality, the CX-30 is a top pick. But if you need more space, some rivals offer better rear legroom or cargo capacity.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Stylish design inside and out
- Strong engine choices, especially the turbo
- Excellent handling and ride quality
- High-end interior materials
- Standard all-wheel drive
- Solid safety features
Cons:
- Cargo space is smaller than some rivals
- Infotainment not fully touchscreen
- Premium fuel needed for full turbo power
Conclusion
The 2026 Mazda CX30 is a smart pick if you want a compact SUV that looks great, feels upscale, and drives like a more expensive car. It’s ideal for young professionals, small families, or anyone who enjoys a sportier ride without going full luxury.
With updated tech, improved safety, and stylish looks, this Mazda crossover continues to offer great value. While it’s not the roomiest option, its overall balance of performance, comfort, and quality makes it one of the best in its class.
