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I've had my CX-30 for a week now and I'm very happy with it. I previously had a '16 Mazda 3. The CX-30 is so much quieter and I like the new features, particularly the radar cruise control. Haven't driven a CX-5 since I bought the Mazda 3. I had originally looked at the CX-3 but didn't like it and I didn't wan't a bigger SUV since my wife has a CRV.
I’ve had my Preferred FWD for 6 weeks/1200 miles. Really like it so far. The handling, acceleration, and comfort level have been just what I expected which was to be very good for it’s segment. There’s a learning curve for the infotainment but I pretty much have that down now. When driving over uneven surfaces it’s a little bumpy probably due to the torsion bar. Otherwise it’s very smooth riding. My only issue so far is an annoying rattle that’s only heard when driving over bumps. It’s coming from the tweeter speaker area of the driver’s door window. The dealer has ordered parts to fix it (under warranty). I look forward to driving it every day!
I am now the proud owner of a one week old CX-30. I was happy to find out that Mazda put everything I care about into the third-level ("Preferred" in the US) trim - all the safety features, memory seats and upgraded stereo). That saved me some money since the top level just added a moon roof, leather seats, and the power tailgate - none of which interest me.
My 2020 CX-30 US Preferred Trim acquired in February 2020
I especially like the "Greige" interior (stupid name for a color, though). White dogs and black seats are not a good combination since they show every white hair. Still, dog or no dog the combination of black, dark steel blue and beige feels like a very upscale look to me.
Fergus settles in to his new ride.
The only downside is getting used to having not much space. There is just enough, but on road trips it will be a tight squeeze with two adults, a dog, a cooler with drinks and sandwiches, and two suitcases in the back. That will all fit - but barely. Extras like hiking boots and winter coats will have to be managed carefully.
Congrats on your new CX-30 and thanks for sharing your experience. Is the space really limited when compared to the CX-5?
Oh, yes. If someone in the front seat is, say, 5' 9" or taller, there is no floor space to speak of in the back seats. Passengers can get by with sliding their feet under the front seat, but don't even think of putting groceries or hiking boots on the back floor. The only usable space back there is the seats. I have a dog, so there goes half the back seat right there if there are two passengers in the front.
Then the cargo space in the back is also limited. Not as bad as the CX-3, but still I can easily get 4 suitcases in the back of the CX-5. The CX-30 will take 2 and change. It just means that this is essentially a two-person-and-luggage car. Four passengers may fit in the vehicle, but they will have to leave luggage behind.
Oh, yes. If someone in the front seat is, say, 5' 9" or taller, there is no floor space to speak of in the back seats. Passengers can get by with sliding their feet under the front seat, but don't even think of putting groceries or hiking boots on the back floor. The only usable space back there is the seats. I have a dog, so there goes half the back seat right there if there are two passengers in the front.
Then the cargo space in the back is also limited. Not as bad as the CX-3, but still I can easily get 4 suitcases in the back of the CX-5. The CX-30 will take 2 and change. It just means that this is essentially a two-person-and-luggage car. Four passengers may fit in the vehicle, but they will have to leave luggage behind.
Thanks for the feedback. So looks like the CX-30 (or equivalent) will be on our radar once we are an empty nest with no kids in the house
That is an interesting observation. The CX-5 can handle kids. The CX-30 really isn't designed for them. Child seats would be cramped and hard to get in and out. The exception is primary school age kids - one or two would fit in the back. But sports equipment or large musical instruments are a no-go. Once they are teenagers,. the back is too cramped. So there is just that short window when this would be good for families. But once the kids are gone if you want to downsize the SUV and retire the soccer mom credentials, it would be great. Two people who travel light would find this ideal. It also makes a great commuter car if you don't want a sedan.
I am now the proud owner of a one week old CX-30. I was happy to find out that Mazda put everything I care about into the third-level ("Preferred" in the US) trim - all the safety features, memory seats and upgraded stereo)...
I agree with your thoughts about the Preferred trim level. I have a 2019 Mazda3 Preferred AWD. It was perfect for me. I wanted all the safety and luxury stuff but did not want Leather or a Sunroof. Too many companies add these two to lower packages and exclude the stuff I would want.
I had the fake leather in my 15 Mazda3 and it was in perfect condition after 100,000 miles. I would have paid extra to get it over Leather. Same with the sunroof.
I bet you will find that you can find a way to make everything fit. I have been able to make it work in my smaller car. If the opinion is to take my wife’s non-Mazda SUV or the car I love to drive, I will make the stuff fit.