Mazda’s 2022 CX-30 meets the eye as a regular Mazda 3 that has evolved into a crossover SUV, placing itself beneath the larger CX-5 and CX-50 models. Despite its friendly appearance, the CX-30 offers enticing driving dynamics that we’ve come to expect from Mazda, along with plenty of interior amenities and practical features.

Starting at $23,775, the compact CX-30 SUV competes directly with the likes of the Hyundai Kona, The Kia Seltos, and the Volkswagen Taos, though it has several aces up its sleeve that give it the edge in many categories, making it one of the best buys in the entire segment.

With plenty of trims to choose from, we’d recommend opting for the 2022 CX-30 Turbo spec, which provides increased power that turns the crossover into a fun and capable performance SUV. Here’s why it’s perfect for driving enthusiasts.

Related: This Is What Makes The Mazda CX-50 So Special

The 2022 CX-30 Turbo’s Power Train Provides Enticing Performance

2022 Mazda CX-30 front third quarter cinematic view
Via: Insidemazda.mazdausa.com

Lower trim CX-30’s come standard with a naturally-aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 186 horsepower and the same amount of torque, allowing the vehicle to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 7.6 seconds while on its way to a top speed of 126 mph. Those numbers are decent for the segment, but they improve vastly in the turbo CX-30 turbo. As its name suggests, it comes with a turbocharged version of the base 2.5-liter engine, which makes a total of 250 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, decreasing the CX-30’s 0-60 runtime to just 5.8 seconds while maintaining the same top speed. Furthermore, the engine’s power output is consistent and smooth thanks to a dual-overhead cam setup and a snappy 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters.

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The 2022 CX-30 Is An Agile Driver

2022 Mazda CX-30 Carbon Edition rear third quarter view
Via: Insidemazda.mazdausa.com

Mazda is popularly recognized as a manufacturer that prioritizes entertaining driving dynamics even in its less sporty models, and the 2022 CX-30 continues with that trend. Steering is responsive and precise, and the crossover’s chassis is tuned to withstand aggressive cornering far better than it should. Additionally, the 2022 CX-30 finally comes with All-Wheel-Drive as standard, which further aids its cornering poise and overall traction. This glorious combination - along with the turbo engine, makes for a lightweight SUV that boasts quick acceleration and nimble drivability that easily translates to an immensely entertaining driving experience.

Related: Why You Should Buy A Classic Mazda MX-5

The CX-30 Offers A Segment-Leading Cabin

2022-CX-30-25-S-Carbon-Edition_02-insidemazda-mazdausa-com-1
Via: Mazda

Inside, the CX-30 greets passengers with the same cabin as the Mazda 3 hatchback, meaning it’s spacious, comfortable, and composed of quality materials that make it feel more expensive that it actually is. Mazda does a great job at providing plenty of desirable features as standard in the CX-30 Turbo, such as heated leatherette-trimmed sports seats with 8-way power adjustment, lumbar support, and 2-position memory, as well as a frameless auto-dimming rearview mirror, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an 8-speaker audio system with Mazda Harmonic Acoustics. The setup features a partially-digital driver’s display, a dash-mounted 8.8-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an independent climate control cluster with physical button controls.

Those that aren’t satisfied with the regular CX-30 Turbo’s amenities can upgrade to the Turbo Premium trim, which adds real leather seat trimming, a heated leather steering wheel, paddle shifters, and a 12-speaker Bose sound system. However, regardless of which trim you opt for, you can be sure to find a cabin that’s far more advanced in both tech and quality when compared to other rivals at the CX-30’s price point.

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The 2022 CX-30 Is Practical For Its Size

2022 Mazda CX-30 Carbon Edition seating layout side view
Via: Mazda

Since the CX-30 is actually based on a hatchback, it can’t be expected to provide the same amount of passenger and cargo room as a full-out SUV. However, the quirky crossover still manages to allocate enough space for large adults in the rear, while also offering 20 cubic feet of cargo space in the rear trunk. That’s more than enough for the segment and the overall size of the CX-30.

The CX-30 Turbo is also relatively fuel efficient, albeit less so than the naturally aspirated version. It delivers an EPA fuel economy rating of 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, averaging a combined return of 25 mpg. That definitely isn’t the greatest consumption rate, but it’s tolerable when you consider the prowess of the CX-30’s turbocharged engine.

All in all, the 2022 Mazda CX-30 presents itself as one of the best and most complete compact crossovers in the entire industry, as it manages to deliver plenty of practicality, a comfortable and luxurious interior, as well as a truly engaging driving experience with segment-leading mechanical features. It is undoubtedly one of the best options available, especially considering its price.