Mazda CX-30 vs. Subaru Crosstrek

What to Consider When Comparing the Mazda CX-30 and Subaru Crosstrek

In the world of compact SUVs, the Mazda CX-30 and Subaru Crosstrek are among two of the most popular models, primarily because both models offer buyers a variety of top features. For example, both vehicles start at a nearly identical, reasonable price point, both have earned a number of top safety ratings, and both offer strong fuel economy. As a result, both vehicles are loved by buyers and closely compared, which is when the true differences between the Mazda CX-30 vs. Subaru Crosstrek become clear.

Despite their similarities in design and function, buyers need to consider a few clear factors when deciding between the CX-30 and Crosstrek. To make the best decision for your next compact SUV purchase, start with this comparison, which looks closely at the main areas of performance, interior, and technology, to understand where these two vehicles stand apart from one another.

Performance Comparison of the Mazda CX-30 and Subaru Crosstrek

While some buyers looking for an SUV may not have performance at the top of their list of “must-have” features, the driving experience is still important. Luckily, when it comes to delivering a smooth, powerful on-road experience, both the CX-30 and the Crosstrek have something to offer.

Engine and Transmission Comparison

Let’s start with the power under the hood. Both the Mazda CX-30 and the Subaru Crosstrek offer buyers 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engines with horsepower (hp) that exceeds 180. However, in order to enjoy that power in the Crosstrek, buyers will need to opt for the Sport model or above, which adds to the base price by at least $4,000. The Crosstrek’s base and premium models come with a 2.0-liter, 152-hp option only. By comparison, the CX-30 offers a 191-hp 2.5-liter engine standard on all models, with the option to upgrade even further to a 2.-5-liter turbo engine capable of 227 hp.

Both vehicles offer drivers standard all-wheel drive (AWD) with a continuously variable transmission for the Crosstrek and a standard automatic for the CX-30. This translates to similar fuel efficiency ratings for both cars. The 2023 Mazda CX-30 offers drivers 26 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 33 mpg on the highway vs. 28/33 mpg for the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek.

Handling and Suspension Comparison

Reviews state that both the CX-30 and the Crosstrek offer drivers a similarly tight turning radius that makes handling smooth. However, when it comes to driving innovation and the overall driving experience, the standards of the CX-30 are clearly higher. Each model comes equipped with G-Vectoring Control Plus, which works alongside the i-Activ AWD®, to help drivers make precise adjustments to power delivery and braking. The result is subtle shifts in the vehicle’s weight, which provides a smoother drive.

The Crosstrek offers drivers a higher clearance that is more suitable for off-road driving along with a feature that is called Dual-Function X-MODE®. With X-MODE®, drivers can customize their traction control to match trail and all-terrain conditions.

Interior and Exterior Comparison of the Mazda CX-30 and Subaru Crosstrek

When it comes to interior style and the type of luxury that drivers want, there is really no comparison between the CX-30 and the Crosstrek. Both succeed in one area, even as they fall short in the other.

Design and Style Comparison

The interior design of the Mazda CX-30 is something of a legend. Like all Mazda models, the philosophy of Jinba Ittaii, or the unity between driver and vehicle, dictates the precise and natural placement of controls, which makes for a more intuitive and pleasurable driving experience. Likewise, the CX-30 embraces the luxury interior style that Mazda is known for, with features such as upgraded leather seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats, an eight-way adjustable driver’s seat with memory, and LED lighting.

In contrast, most reviewers refer to the Crosstrek’s interior as a bit sparse, and upgrades are limited. Although drivers can upgrade to leather seats or heated front seats, the overall focus is not on comfort as much as practicality. As a result, the CX-30, like all Mazdas, continues to take the crown as a vehicle with a luxury vehicle feel at an entry-level price.

Space and Comfort Comparison

When it comes to space, the Crosstrek does gain some ground, offering more total interior cargo room at 54.9 cubic feet compared to the 45.2 cubic feet of the CX-30. Other comparisons include the Subaru’s front and rear legroom, measuring 42.9 cubic feet and 36.5 cubic feet, respectively, which is slightly larger than the CX-30, which offers 42.7 cubic feet and 36.3 cubic feet, respectively.

The front headroom is also slightly larger in the Subaru, which is 39.8 inches compared to 38.1 inches in the CX-30. However, the CX-30 wins in rear headroom space, offering 38.3 inches compared to the 38.0 inches of the Crosstrek.

Technology and Safety Features Comparison of the Mazda CX-30 and Subaru Crosstrek

Last, but certainly not least, the safety and technology features of the Mazda CX-30 vs. the Subaru Crosstrek are worth considering. In this category, both SUVs are solid, earning top crash safety ratings from independent agencies; however, the difference lies in what each vehicle offers to ensure driver and passenger safety along with technology features.

Infotainment and Connectivity Comparison

When it comes to connectivity and technology, both Mazda and Subaru understand the needs of the modern driver. This means multimedia center displays, Apple/Android integration, HD radio, and Bluetooth compatibility come standard on all models of both SUVs. It is also important to note that the Crosstrek’s 7-inch multimedia display (upgraded to 11.6 inches in the Premium trim and higher) has touchscreen capabilities, while the CX-30 offers an 8.8-inch center display on all trims. Both SUVs also feature hands-free and voice recognition capabilities.

When it comes to entertainment, the base model of the Subaru Crosstrek offers a four-speaker system, with six speakers standard on Premium trims and above. Interested drivers can upgrade to the highest trim level, the Crosstrek Limited, to enjoy a 10-speaker Harmon Kardon® sound system.

The CX-30 has a larger base audio system, offering eight speakers with Harmonic Acoustics on the 2.5 S, 2.5 S Select. 2.5 Preferred, 2.5 Carbon Edition, and 2.5 S Premium. For the highest-level trims, the 2.5 Turbo Premium and 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus, Mazda offers an upgraded 12-speaker Bose® audio system that was custom designed for the CX-30, thanks to Mazda’s long partnership with the Bose® corporation.

Safety Features Comparison

When it comes to choosing the right vehicle, safety is high on most drivers’ priority lists. Thankfully, both the Mazda CX-30 and the Subaru Crosstrek have proven safety records and have earned five-star overall crash safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA). In addition, the 2023 Mazda CX-30 also earned the Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS).

The features that contribute to such high safety rankings include standards such as airbags and anti-lock brake systems. In addition, the CX-30 offers drivers several standard safety additions such as a lane departure warning system, lane keep assist, and driver attention alert.

Conclusion

Choosing the right compact SUV for you and your family is a tough decision. It’s important to consider a variety of factors, ranging from safety and technology to price and reliability. Both the Mazda CX-30 and the Subaru Crosstrek offer buyers a variety of top features, but the vehicles stand out in clear ways, such as interior comfort and technology. For this reason, the best way to truly determine if either SUV is for you is through a test drive where you can see and feel these differences for yourself.

Test Drive the Mazda CX-30 at DePaula Mazda in Albany, NY, Today!

In the Albany, NY, metro area, there is no better way to learn about the value and fun that you receive from driving a CX-30 than a visit to DePaula Mazda. Our experienced sales staff is happy to take you for a test drive where you can feel the difference and the fun of driving the CX-30. Contact us or stop by our showroom to learn more today.