Mazda CX-30 Vs. Mazda CX-50 Comparison
Mazda CX-30 vs. Mazda CX-50 at a Glance
- Performance Specs: Specs are nearly identical between these two small SUVs, thanks to a pair of engines and standard all-wheel drive for both.
- Exterior Colors: Several of the automaker's classic shades – Jet Black Mica and Soul Red Crystal Metallic, for instance – are available in either lineup, while each SUV also offers unique, head-turning colors for personalization.
- Interior & Amenities: In true Mazda fashion, you'll find high-tech, premium, and comfortable cabins with both models, though some appointments vary.
- Exterior & Passenger Dimensions: One main difference between Mazda CX-30 and Mazda CX-50 SUVs is sizing, with the former being more agile and the latter being more spacious.
Composed & Capable: Mazda CX-30 vs. Mazda CX-50 Side-by-Side Comparison
A Mazda CX-30 vs. Mazda CX-50 comparison is an excellent place to start the search for your next SUV upgrade. With nearly identical engine options and standard all-wheel drive in both, you can focus on other factors, such as exterior colors, interior amenities, and frame and cabin dimensions to make your decision. Discover the highlights of these premium yet affordable sport-utes below with the help of our New Hampshire team at McGee Mazda Claremont.
Mazda CX-30 vs. Mazda CX-50: Engaging Specs
No matter which of these SUVs earns your favor by the end of this guide, you'll get a spirited and youthful drive. Both have a pair of Skyactiv®-G engines available in their lineups, starting with a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder. In the Mazda CX-30, this powertrain makes 186 horsepower, but you'll get an additional pony (187 horsepower) with the Mazda CX-50.
As you move up the trim options, you'll encounter a turbocharged option for both. The Mazda CX-30 offers a 2.5-liter dynamic pressure turbo unit that produces 227 horsepower with 87-octane fuel or 250 horsepower when it's treated to 93-octane gas. Meanwhile, the twin-scroll turbo engine gives you the same 87-octane output, but bumps you up to 256 horsepower at the 93-octane level.
If you're looking for exceptional road grip, you'll be pleased to know that both SUVs come standard with all-wheel drive. However, with standard Sport and Off-Road modes (Towing mode is available) and manual shifting capability, the Mazda CX-50 delivers a truly engaging driving experience.
Expert Opinion
The [Mazda] CX-50 is one of those rare modern crossovers that still gives you a sense of the road through the steering wheel, and it zips through traffic with ease.
Beth Nichols, Car and Driver
The Mazda CX-30 skips mode selections and manual shifting, but it does add Off-Road Traction Assist to the AWD system.
If towing's in your future, you'll want the larger model, as the Mazda CX-30 is not rated for towing. See how much you can pull with either Mazda CX-50 engine in the chart below.
| 2026 Mazda CX-30 | 2026 Mazda CX-50 | |
|---|---|---|
| Engines |
|
|
| Max. Horsepower |
|
|
| Max. Torque |
|
|
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Towing Capacity | N/A |
|
| Max. EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 24 / 31 / 272 | 24 / 30 / 262 |
| Length | 173 in | 185.8 in |
| Width | 70.7 in | 72.9 in |
| Ground Clearance | 8 in | 8.3 - 8.6 in |
| Cargo Room (Standard / Max) | 20.2 / 45.2 cu ft | 31.4 / 56.3 cu ft |
Mazda CX-50 vs. Mazda CX-30: Eye-Catching Colors
There are plenty of ways to show off your personal style with either automobile's color palette, from understated to downright head-turning shades. They share some of the brand's classic options, such as these:
- Jet Black Mica
- Soul Red Crystal Metallic
- Machine Gray Metallic
- Polymetal Gray Metallic
You'll have plenty of unique choices, too. For instance, you can choose a Mazda CX-50 clad in a deep green named Cypress or earth-toned Zircon Sand Metallic. Alternatively, your athletic new Mazda CX-30 for sale can be outfitted with a rich blue called Deep Crystal Mica Blue or a regal white known as Snowflake White Pearl Mica.
Mazda CX-30 vs. Mazda CX-50: Premium Interiors & Amenities
Mazda is known for delivering luxury-level appointments without the price to match, and the Mazda CX-30 interior lives up to this beautifully. You'll have a purpose-built yet polished cabin, boasting standard amenities like these:
- 8.8-inch touchscreen
- Smartphone integration
- 8-speaker sound system
Higher trims elevate your convenience and comfort. Starting at the second tier, you can keep your cabin cord-free with wireless phone charging, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, and Alexa® Built-In voice commands, while also gaining comforts like heated front seats.
Expert Opinion
Plenty of subcompact SUVs offer middling interiors and a dull experience behind the wheel, but the Mazda CX-30 cuts against the grain. Instead, it's one of the few in its class to offer a genuinely premium cabin and enough driving verve to keep you entertained while zipping down winding backroads.
Austin Parsons, Car and Driver
The larger Mazda CX-50 interior starts you out with a 10.25-inch center display, a wireless phone charger, and dual-zone climate control (all available for the Mazda CX-30). You'll also get half leatherette-trimmed seats. Available enhancements include a 12-speaker Bose® audio system, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated steering wheel.
Mazda CX-30 vs. Mazda CX-50: Size Comparison
You'll likely notice some significant Mazda CX-30 vs. Mazda CX-50 differences in dimensions. In nearly every way, a new Mazda CX-50 will be larger than a Mazda CX-30 and provide a bit more ground clearance for your rugged adventures.
That doesn't mean the refined Mazda CX-30 doesn't have its own advantages. With nimble exterior measurements, it's ideal for urban environments, allowing you to slip into compact parking spots or weave through traffic.
Mazda CX-30 vs. Mazda CX-50: What Do Reddit Users Have To Say?
Before you go, see what some real-world drivers like yourself have to say on Reddit about these two well-equipped, sporty SUVs.
Disgusted_Mac_Lifer
"CX-5: Japanese-built, best build quality and reliability, most sophisticated suspension for best behavior of the three in bumpy corners.
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CX-50: More butch styling, lower and wider, offers the option of a Toyota hybrid powertrain.
CX-30: Smallest, especially in the back; lowest-priced."
mazdausa
"The main difference is their core purpose. We designed the CX-30 for navigating life with agility. The CX-5 is the versatile heart of our lineup, a master of balancing comfort and utility. The CX-50 was specifically created to feel more at home in the outdoors, with a stronger build and higher towing capacity. Your wife has great taste, let us know if we can help further!"
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Affectionate-Panic-1
"For the 26 model year, the CX-50 and the CX-30 have a much better infotainment system than the CX-5. The CX-50 and CX-30s infotainment system incorporates buttons and can be utilized with minimal distraction while driving. The CX-5 puts all functions in a giant touch screen that is more distracting to utilize while driving."
Read More
Mazda CX-30 Vs. Mazda CX-50 Comparison FAQ
Which Mazda SUV offers better performance: the Mazda CX-30 or the Mazda CX-50?
Both SUVs provide nearly identical specs, including standard all-wheel drive, 250-256 maximum horsepower, and up to 320 pound-feet of torque.
What are the fuel efficiency ratings for the Mazda CX-30 and Mazda CX-50?
As with output, you can expect similar EPA ratings for these SUVs:
- Mazda CX-30: up to 24/31/27 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)2
- Mazda CX-50: up to 24/30/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)2
Which SUV has more interior space: the Mazda CX-30 or Mazda CX-50?
The Mazda CX-50 has more interior passenger and cargo space thanks to its larger frame, though both can accommodate your crew and gear.
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Continue Comparing The Mazda CX-30 & Mazda CX-50
1Towing capacities shown are maximums and must be reduced by the weight of any passenger, cargo hitch or optional equipment in the towing vehicle. Please refer to vehicle Owner's Manual for details regarding towing capacities and other valuable information. Towing a trailer may have an effect on vehicle's handling, braking, durability, performance and driving economy. For specific information on recommended or required equipment, see your Mazda Dealer. Hitches are available through manufacturers other than Mazda.
2EPA-estimated mileage. Actual results will vary.
3Reference to this third-party review/claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For more details, please visit https://www.caranddriver.com/mazda/cx-50
4Reference to this third-party review/claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For more details, please visit https://www.caranddriver.com/mazda/cx-30
