Mazda CX-5 vs. Mazda CX-30: which is better?
Mazda's CX-5 and CX-30 SUVs go head-to-head in our detailed comparison guide that looks at style, tech, reliability and more
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Like any other car manufacturer out there, Mazda has been observing and reacting to consumer trends by building a wider range of SUVs.
These middling options offer the best of both worlds, as they’re larger than the electric MX-30 but far more compact than the large CX-60.
If you’re struggling to set them apart, or you’re not sure which might be best for you and your family, read on to understand what separates these seriously impressive models.
Mazda CX-30 vs. Mazda CX-5: which has more style?
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Mazda uses a design language it calls ‘Kodo’, suggesting its cars have a heartbeat, a life and a soul. Looking past the marketing, it’s clear to see that these cars both have very eye-catching designs.
They both use sharp angles and harsh lines to give them a lot of road presence. Like the rest of the Mazda range, they also both have large grilles that extend from the bonnet to low down on the bumper.
Because it’s a large model, the CX-5 has more typical SUV proportions in that it uses a boxier design, but it certainly doesn’t look boring.
The CX-30 is a much smaller model, but it also has a sense of coupé about it thanks to a long bonnet and a curved rear.
What is it like to drive a Mazda CX-30 vs. CX-5?
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Despite being SUV models, Mazda has engineered the CX-30 and CX-5 to drive incredibly well. Thanks to their responsive steering, they handle more like smaller cars.
Because the CX-30 is smaller and lower, it has a lower centre of gravity, so it’s more car-like, however, the CX-5 has taut enough suspension not to lean too much in corners, which is often a trait of larger SUVs.
Mazda uses comparably larger engines, but they come with clever fuel-saving technology including, in some cases, mild hybrid assistance, to reduce emissions and improve fuel economy.
There are two different 2.0-litre petrols available, and they’re the same as you get in the Mazda 3, given that these cars are mechanically very similar.
You can pick from 122hp and 186hp variants, with the more powerful model coming with optional four-wheel drive.
The Mazda CX-5 gets a 165hp 2.0-litre petrol engine, plus a more powerful 194hp 2.5-litre unit that comes with four-wheel drive as standard.
This is one of the few remaining Mazda models to use diesel power, and the 184hp 2.2-litre unit is great if you often carry a car load or need to tow a trailer. It’s also available with four-wheel drive.
What is the technology in the Mazda CX-5 and CX-30?
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Standard equipment has always been great for Mazda’s cars, and they’ve always been available with really high-spec configurations which makes them seriously attractive if you want a premium model without the higher price tag.
As a guide, newer CX-30 models come with LED headlights, rear parking sensors, a reversing camera and adaptive cruise control.
The CX-5, being a more substantial and more expensive model, it comes with a few extras as standard, like front parking sensors and dual-zone climate control.
Both also offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity on their infotainment systems, and while you can get built-in sat-nav, many prefer to use their phone’s familiar interface anyway.
Higher-spec models are popular, and some optional extras worth scouting out include heated and cooled seats, a heated steering wheel, a head-up display, a 360-degree parking camera, a powered boot lid and keyless entry.
Mazda CX-5 vs. CX-30 dimensions and boot space
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The Mazda CX-5 is exactly as you’d expect it to be compared with other family SUVs – despite it looking pretty big, it’s very similar in dimension to other models.
It’s 4,575mm long, 2,115mm wide (including mirrors) and 1,675mm tall. The CX-30 is a much smaller model, measuring 4,395mm long, 2,040mm wide and 1,540mm tall.
The CX-30 has a fairly average-sized boot, at 430 litres, but many of the CX-5’s rivals offer more than the 522 litres you get in this model.
However, it’s worth mentioning that the CX-5 has asmart 40:20:40 split folding rear bench, which means you can fold each of the three seats down individually for your perfect configuration of passenger and luggage space.
The CX-30 has a more normal 60:40 split, which means two seats fold together at the back.
CX-5 vs. CX-30: which is more reliable?
Mazda has built a solid reputation for long-lasting and durable cars, which is backed up by positive consumer feedback citing dependability and low maintenance costs.
The Mazda CX-5 has been available for longer and across multiple generations, so there’s more data about that model, but even the newer CX-30 has gained a lot of positive feedback in a comparatively short time.
Proper maintenance and care play a main role in a car's reliability, so it’s important to adhere to servicing schedules if you want your car to last a long time.
Used Mazda CX-30 vs used Mazda CX-5: which should I buy?
If you’re wondering whether you should buy a Mazda SUV over one from another company, you should seriously consider one. They offer high levels of luxury and technology for a reasonable price, plus they look great.
If, however, you’re looking specifically at the CX-30 and CX-5, the answer is pretty clear. The CX-30 is an excellent pick for a high-riding crossover, but if you need more interior space, off-road ability or towing capacity, then you should focus your search on the CX-5.