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New 2026 Mazda CX-30 SUV: Prices, Engines, and Safety Tec

2026 Mazda CX-30: Pricing and Competitive Positioning in the Compact SUV Market

By Panorica PanPublished 4 months ago 4 min read
Mazda CX-30

Mazda has released full details for the 2026 Mazda CX-30, its best-selling compact crossover designed for drivers who want efficiency, safety, and capability in a smaller footprint. The CX-30 sits between the Mazda3 hatchback and the larger CX-50, giving the automaker an important entry point in one of the most competitive vehicle categories in the U.S.

Mazda CX-30

For 2026, Mazda has taken a measured approach. Instead of a complete redesign, the company has focused on packaging, pricing adjustments, and ensuring that advanced driver-assistance features and all-wheel drive (AWD) remain standard across the lineup. This keeps the 2026 Mazda CX-30 competitive against rivals like the Toyota Corolla Cross, Honda HR-V, and Hyundai Kona, all of which are seeing strong sales growth in North America.

2026 Mazda CX-30 Pricing Structure

Mazda adjusted prices slightly upward for the 2026 model year, with increases averaging about $500 USD per trim. While some competitors start lower, Mazda justifies the premium with standard AWD and a higher baseline of technology and safety equipment.

Here is the full list of trims with U.S. pricing:

  • CX-30 2.5 S — $26,500
  • CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport — $27,800
  • CX-30 2.5 S Preferred — $30,200
  • CX-30 2.5 S Carbon Edition — $32,000
  • CX-30 2.5 S Premium — $34,000
  • CX-30 2.5 Turbo Premium — $36,500
  • CX-30 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus — $38,000

Compared to direct competitors, the Mazda CX-30 lands slightly higher than the Honda HR-V (starting at about $25,000) but remains close to the Toyota Corolla Cross and Hyundai Kona, which also push into the low $30,000s for well-equipped trims. The top CX-30 Turbo models climb into the higher $30,000s, where they overlap with entry-level versions of larger SUVs like the Hyundai Tucson and Honda CR-V.

Trim Levels and Standard Features

Mazda structured the CX-30 lineup to provide clear feature upgrades as buyers move up each trim level. Instead of offering scattered packages, the automaker designed trims to align with specific customer priorities—value, design, comfort, or performance.

Mazda CX-30

CX-30 2.5 S

  • Price: $26,500
  • 191 horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine
  • Standard i-Activ AWD system
  • 8.8-inch center display with Mazda Connect
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
  • Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Traffic Alert
  • 16-inch alloy wheels

CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport

  • Price: $27,800
  • Adds dual-zone automatic climate control
  • Upgraded leatherette seating surfaces
  • Keyless entry with push-button start
  • 18-inch alloy wheels

CX-30 2.5 S Preferred

  • Price: $30,200
  • Power sliding-glass moonroof
  • Heated front seats
  • 8-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support
  • Memory seat function for driver

CX-30 2.5 S Carbon Edition

  • Price: $32,000
  • Exclusive Polymetal Gray Metallic paint option
  • Interior finished in red leather upholstery
  • 18-inch black metallic alloy wheels
  • Targeted at design-oriented buyers

CX-30 2.5 S Premium

  • Price: $34,000
  • Full-color head-up display
  • Power liftgate with programmable height
  • 12-speaker Bose premium audio system
  • Adaptive LED headlights

CX-30 2.5 Turbo Premium

  • Price: $36,500
  • Turbocharged 2.5-liter engine with up to 250 horsepower on premium fuel
  • 227 horsepower on regular fuel
  • Adaptive front-lighting system for improved visibility
  • Larger dual exhaust outlets

CX-30 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus

  • Price: $38,000
  • Adds 360-degree view monitor
  • Traffic Jam Assist for semi-automated driving in congestion
  • Frameless auto-dimming rearview mirror
  • Enhanced leather interior appointments

Powertrain and Performance

Mazda continues with its proven Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter engines. The naturally aspirated version produces 191 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, while the turbocharged engine delivers 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel. Running on regular fuel drops output to 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, still a competitive figure for the class.

Every CX-30 uses a 6-speed automatic transmission, a rarity in a segment dominated by continuously variable transmissions (CVTs). Mazda emphasizes driver engagement, and this transmission choice reflects the brand’s philosophy.

Mazda CX-30

Performance figures:

  • CX-30 2.5 S: 0–60 mph in about 8.5 seconds
  • CX-30 Turbo: 0–60 mph in under 6.5 seconds

Fuel economy ratings are competitive:

  • Base engine: 26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
  • Turbo engine: 22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway

Packaging Strategy

Mazda designed its CX-30 packaging strategy to minimize complexity for buyers. Each trim offers a clear step up without requiring separate option packages. This simplifies dealer inventory and reduces customer confusion.

The Carbon Edition caters to younger buyers or those looking for standout styling, while the Turbo trims address customers wanting compact size but higher power. With AWD included across the board, Mazda differentiates itself from rivals that charge extra for the feature.

Technology and Safety

The i-Activsense safety suite comes standard on every CX-30, reflecting Mazda’s push to democratize safety. Included systems:

  • Blind Spot Monitoring
  • Rear Cross Traffic Alert
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Lane-Keep Assist
  • Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go
  • Smart Brake Support

Higher trims expand the list:

  • 360-degree surround view monitor
  • Traffic Jam Assist, offering steering support in low-speed congestion
  • Driver attention alert systems

Mazda’s approach places the CX-30 among the safety leaders in the compact crossover category, alongside Toyota and Honda.

Market Position and Competition

The compact crossover segment is the largest growth area in the U.S. market. The CX-30 must compete directly with:

  • Honda HR-V: Lower entry price but weaker engine output.
  • Toyota Corolla Cross: Broad dealer support, but AWD optional, not standard.
  • Hyundai Kona: Lower base price, more electrified options, but smaller interior.
  • Subaru Crosstrek: AWD standard like the CX-30, but fewer turbocharged choices.

Mazda differentiates itself through performance-oriented handling, standard AWD, and a more upscale interior presentation.

Key Insights for Buyers

  • Base pricing starts at $26,500, rising to $38,000 for top trims.
  • All-wheel drive comes standard, unlike many competitors.
  • Turbocharged engine delivers 250 horsepower, unmatched in most direct rivals.
  • Standard i-Activsense safety across all trims.
  • Clear step-up packaging simplifies the buying process.

Conclusion

The 2026 Mazda CX-30 builds on a strategy of clarity and consistency. By keeping AWD standard, safety tech included, and trims easy to understand, Mazda appeals to buyers seeking confidence and value in a crowded compact SUV market.

Mazda CX-30

While competitors expand into hybrids and EVs, Mazda sticks to proven internal combustion with a focus on driver engagement and safety. Buyers comparing compact SUVs will find the CX-30 offers AWD security, optional turbocharged power, and premium-level safety technology at competitive pricing.

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About the Creator

Panorica Pan

Plugged into the future of mobility! Uou'll often find me deep-diving into articles on Panorica or Gerane for the newest EV reviews! For me, EVs are more than just cars; they're a commitment to a better planet and a thrilling experience.

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