2023 Mazda CX-30 vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered two distinct models: the 2.5 S and the 2.5 Turbo. The 2.5 S featured a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, while the 2.5 Turbo boasted a turbocharged version capable of up to 250 horsepower. Both models came with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The CX-30's design was characterized by a long hood and a stubby rear end, giving it a nose-heavy appearance. Despite its appealing design, the excessive gray body cladding detracted from its overall aesthetic. Inside, the CX-30's cabin was upscale and elegant, with quality materials and a tasteful combination of colors, especially in the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus trim.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its design from the second-generation model introduced in 2017, maintaining a modern and appealing look. The new Carbon Turbo trim featured Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats, adding a touch of sophistication. The CX-5 lineup included 2.5 S and 2.5 Turbo models, with the latter offering a turbocharged engine producing 256 horsepower on premium gas. The CX-5's interior was upgraded over the years, providing a luxurious feel at a mainstream price. The Carbon Turbo test vehicle, priced at $39,355, showcased the CX-5's premium interior and exterior detailing.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S models gained an additional five horsepower, totaling 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque from the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This improvement resulted in a significant increase in fuel economy, with an EPA rating of 29 mpg in combined driving. The 2.5 Turbo model, when fueled with premium gas, delivered 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. The CX-30's six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD provided a smooth driving experience, although the powertrain could feel flat-footed in heavy traffic. The CX-30's suspension was soft, offering a comfortable ride, but it struggled with speed bumps and humps.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo, when filled with premium gas, produced 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. The powertrain was more rewarding with a steady acceleration, allowing the revs to build before delivering a wave of torque. However, the CX-5's fuel efficiency was unimpressive, with an observed 22.9 mpg on the evaluation loop. The CX-5's suspension was re-tuned for a smoother ride, and the frame was stiffened for responsive handling. The CX-5's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced cornering and minimized body motions, providing a sophisticated driving experience. The CX-5 was quiet on the highway and lively in the city, with a decent 7.9 inches of ground clearance for off-road trails.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered standard dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated front seats. The Turbos included a heated steering wheel. The CX-30's interior was comfortable for the driver but less so for the front passenger due to limited seat adjustment. Rear passengers had limited legroom, but the seatbacks were padded for comfort. The CX-30 provided 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 45.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. However, the cargo space was not impressive for a small crossover.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 featured standard heated front seats, with the driver's seat offering six-way power adjustment. Leather upholstery was standard on all trims except the base 2.5 S Select. The CX-5's interior was comfortable for four adults, with supportive rear seats and soft front seatback material. The cabin's design and quality elevated the CX-5 above its mass-market rivals. The CX-5 provided 30 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, which was less than most compact crossovers.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30's Mazda Connect infotainment system had three significant flaws: the lack of a touchscreen display, non-conversational voice recognition, and the absence of a tuning knob. The system required quick looks down to reference controls, causing driver distraction. The voice-recognition system was not intuitive, and the lack of a tuning knob made it difficult to navigate radio stations. Despite these shortcomings, the 8.8-inch display was well-integrated into the dashboard, offering pleasing graphics and a logical menu structure. The CX-30 included Bluetooth, HD Radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and connected services.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered traditional switchgear for stereo volume, radio tuning, and climate controls, aligning with Mazda's philosophy against touchscreens. However, the CX-5 allowed touchscreen operation of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto while driving, with wireless connectivity available in several trims. The 10.25-inch display was easy to navigate, with a large knob and surrounding buttons on the center console. Mazda Connected Services provided remote engine starting, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and more. The CX-5's 10-speaker Bose premium sound system added to the SUV's premium interior.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 was a safety highlight, earning a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS. It featured standard adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The CX-30 also included a driver monitoring system, automatic high-beam headlights, and an E911 emergency notification system. The 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus trim added a surround-view camera, parking sensors, and Traffic Jam Assist. The driving assistance systems worked well, although the forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking response seemed excessive in certain situations.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered adaptive headlights, traffic sign recognition, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 had previously earned a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, although it did not receive the accolade in 2024. The NHTSA awarded the CX-5 five-star ratings across the board, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating.