We’re enjoying a week with the Mazda CX-30 and finding plenty of things to love. However, there are some potential drawbacks to consider with this tiny SUV as well. See our first reactions from driving the 2022 Mazda CX-30. 

Here’s what driving the 2022 Mazda CX-30 is like 

For some quick background information, the 2022 Mazda CX-30 is an affordable, athletic option with plenty of value. It starts at about $22,500 and comes with standard all-wheel drive. Higher trim levels increase the price to about $35,000. 

The base model starts you off with LED headlights, 16-inch wheels, and an 8.8-inch infotainment system. Going up in price provides access to keyless entry, 18-inch wheels, leather seats, paddle shifters, a power liftgate, dual-zone automatic climate control, and more. 

1. The Mazda CX-30 is fast and fun 

Any reason to take the 2022 Mazda CX-30 for a spin is a great one. Thanks to its peppy engine and agile size, it’s quick and easy to maneuver through tight city areas. It’s also exciting on curvy country roads. 

Our model is equipped with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder turbo with 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. According to Edmunds, it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.4 seconds. The transmission is smooth, and the steering is sharp. 

The normal driving mode is a little more fuel-efficient, but the Sport mode provides more pep. Also, the standard engine provides 186 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque. 

2. Some features are missing 

The Mazda CX-30 is missing some of the most luxurious features that other models have. For example, the CX-30 doesn’t have ventilated seats, while the CX5 does. While this isn’t a necessary feature, we missed having our backsides cooled during hot and humid afternoons. 

Also, there is a tray in front of the gear shifter that would be perfect for a wireless charging pad. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, but there isn’t a touchscreen. The Mazda CX-50 offers touchscreen functionality with Apple CarPlay, which works extremely well. 

However, the rotary dial system is very easy to use. You can spin it to select different functions or slide it left and right to get to certain buttons. The infotainment system feels most intuitive in the CX-30 out of every model. 

3. The CX-30 offers luxury comfort 

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 is crafted with high-quality, luxurious materials. The leather-wrapped steering wheel feels extremely comfortable during long drives with an upscale racing-themed vibe. 

There are soft-touch surfaces with contrasting colors that pop along with metal accents. It looks as good as it feels. Plus, the build quality is robust and durable. The CX-50 should be able to handle whatever kids and pets throw at it. 

The sunroof is a little small, but at least the CX-30 has one. Also, the floor mats feature plush, comfortable carpets. Overall, the CX-30 is an exciting and comfortable SUV for long drives. 

4. The CX-30 isn’t the biggest option 

There isn’t much storage space in the 2022 Mazda CX-30. There are four cup holders up front, with a small tray in front of the gear shifter, and the glove box is small. The center console is deeper than expected, though. 

Passengers don’t have many places to put their items, and passenger space is a little cramped. Taller folks may need more knee or head space in the backseat. But the front seats are large enough for people of all shapes and sizes. 

There are 22.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats with up to 45.2 cubic feet total. We will see how much camping gear we can store in it soon. 

5. The CX-30 is a little sensitive 

Our 2022 Mazda CX-30 model has built-in navigation with live weather updates, which sounds pretty neat. However, when driving from Rock Hill, SC, to Asheville, NC, for two and a half hours, there was a severe storm warning every two minutes. 

The storm warning allows you to view it for more details, or you can click ignore. But it only provides more details if the vehicle isn’t moving. So, you have to be at a red light or a stop sign to see it. 

If you click to view more details, then an entire paragraph pops up. Also, when you’re driving and a storm warning for Polk county or somewhere else pops up, it’s not exactly helpful unless you know where that is! 

Stay tuned for more updates as we discover more to love or what isn’t to love about the CX-30. We will have a full 2022 Mazda CX-30 review out soon.