2024 Mazda CX-30 vs Honda HR-V

Both the Mazda CX-30 and the Honda HR-V are popular choices in the subcompact SUV segment, each offering their own unique blend of features, performance, design, and value. Choosing between the two models may seem challenging, but making the right choice simply starts with knowing exactly what matters the most to your family. Let’s take a look at what both these subcompact SUVs offer drivers and how you can learn more about both options at DePaula Mazda.

An Overview of the Contenders

When it comes to the subcompact SUV market, you cannot find two vehicles with more personality than the 2024 Mazda CX-30 and the Honda HR-V. However, the way that these two vehicles stand out from the crowd is quite different, making them unique not only for the market, but also from each other. While the Honda sticks to a strong, reliable framework, the Mazda CX-30 is fun, smart, and fast, often making drivers wonder whether it is an SUV or a sports car.

Comparing Engine Power and Handling

Known for its engaging driving dynamics, the CX-30 offers responsive handling and a smooth ride as well as standard all-wheel drive (AWD). It typically comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine but also has a turbocharged option that offers up to 250 horsepower (hp) and can go from 0 to 60 miles per hour (mph) in six seconds. Indeed, the CX-30 delivers more-than-decent power and acceleration, taking curves fast and tight, exactly like drivers expect a sports car to do.

On the other hand, the HR-V is more geared toward efficiency and comfort rather than sportiness. It is commonly equipped with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with 158 hp. This power, while adequate for daily commuting, may feel less spirited compared to the CX-30. Most HR-V trims come with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which prioritizes smoothness and fuel efficiency, along with standard front-wheel drive. All-wheel-drive (AWD) is an optional upgrade.

Design and Styling for Different Aesthetics

Mazda is known for its sleek and upscale designs, and the CX-30 is no exception. It features Mazda’s signature Kodo design philosophy, which includes flowing lines and a modern aesthetic. Conversely, the HR-V boasts a more practical and versatile design.

Interior Luxury and Comfort

Like all 2024 Mazda models, the CX-30’s interior is stylish and well-appointed, with high-quality materials and plenty of attention to detail. Mazda has made a name for itself by upscaling the interior of its vehicles to make them feel like a class above the price tag, and even the affordable subcompact CX-30 follows this design approach. Highlights include leather seats, heated front seats and steering wheel, a head-up instrument display, ambient interior lighting, and an optional custom-fitted Bose® sound system.

The HR-V features Honda’s Magic Seat system that allows for various cargo and seating configurations, which is a bonus for drivers who are looking for more space. While not as striking as the CX-30, the HR-V offers a clean and functional interior design, with a spacious cabin and large windows for visibility.

Navigating the Technology and Features

Modern drivers are looking for a lot more than four wheels and some engine power. Other aspects of the driving experience, such as the technology and safety features, also play a big role in assessing a vehicle’s value, and both the 2024 Mazda CX-30 and the Honda HR-V come equipped with some notable features that are worth comparing.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The CX-30 typically comes with Mazda’s latest infotainment system, which includes an 8.8-inch display that features bright, straightforward graphics. It supports smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and offers a Wi-Fi hotspot as a standard feature on all trim levels.

Similarly, the HR-V also typically comes with a touchscreen infotainment system, although the size is smaller at seven inches. The menu system is simple and straightforward and supports smartphone integration with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto at the higher trim levels.

Safety and Driver Assistance Technologies

Both the 2024 Mazda CX-30 and the Honda HR-V earned Top Safety Pick+ ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), which reassures consumers that they are both safe and reliable vehicles. However, the specific features that led to earning the IIHS rating vary for each of the vehicles.

For example, the Mazda CX-30 comes with a suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. In addition to these driver assistance features, some trim levels of the CX-30 offer impressive safety technologies, such as a 360-degree camera system and traffic sign recognition.

As for the HR-V, its suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, known as Honda Sensing, may include features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, collision mitigation braking system, and road departure mitigation. Some trim levels also offer additional safety features such as a multi-angle rearview camera, automatic high-beam headlights, and Honda LaneWatch (a camera-based blind-spot monitoring system).

Pricing and Economy

When it comes to the price tag for each vehicle, it’s important to consider more than one factor. Important details include overall price, fuel efficiency, and long-term value. In all of these categories, both the Mazda Cx-30 and the Honda HR-V have impressive features to offer.

Fuel Economy and Environmental Impact

When it comes to fuel economy, the winner is the Mazda CX-30. Depending on the engine and transmission configuration, it achieves around 26 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. Furthermore, Mazda has been making strides in improving the efficiency and environmental impact of its vehicles through its Skyactiv® technology. The CX-30’s fuel-efficient engines and lightweight construction contribute to its relatively lower environmental footprint.

In comparison, the front-wheel drive system in the HR-V returns 26 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. Honda also emphasizes eco-friendly technologies in its vehicles, and the HR-V model benefits from Honda’s commitment to sustainability.

Cost of Ownership and Value Proposition

When it comes to price, these two vehicles start at a nearly identical rate. The lowest Mazda CX-30 trim, the CX-30 2.5 S, starts at $24,995. Similarly, the lowest HR-V trim, the LX, starts at $24,600. Although the CX-30 may have a higher slightly higher starting price, it offers excellent value for buyers seeking a premium compact SUV experience. Even the base model features upscale interior materials, stylish design, advanced technology, and engaging driving dynamics, which may justify its higher starting price point for some buyers.

Why Mazda CX-30 Leads the Way

The CX-30 tends to offer a more premium experience compared to its competitors in the subcompact SUV segment, including the Honda HR-V. It comes well-equipped, even in its base trim, with features like an 8.8-inch infotainment display, smartphone integration, and advanced safety technology. The 2024 Mazda CX-30 may have a slightly higher starting price than the HR-V, but it also offers a compelling overall package with its upscale interior and engaging driving dynamics.

Drive Home in Your New Mazda CX-30 from DePaula Mazda

Are you interested in test driving a Mazda CX-30 to see just how special it is? Come on down to DePaula Mazda in Albany, NY. We not only have a large inventory of new CX-30 models in a variety of trims, but we can also help you compare the Mazda to the Honda HR-V, thanks to our large inventory of used Hondas as well. Don’t delay, schedule your test drive today!