Skip to main content

If you’re looking for a small car that can do what most crossovers can, then the 2022 Mazda CX-30 is a great choice. In case you’re unfamiliar with it, the CX-30 is like a taller and more rugged version of the Mazda3, but it’s smaller than the CX-5. For some buyers, its size is “just right.” After driving the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus version of the CX-30 for a week, I think that this top trim level could be just right for many buyers. Here are five reasons why.

2022 Mazda CX-30 Premium Plus
2022 Mazda CX-30 Premium Plus | Joe Santos, MotorBiscuit

1. The 2022 Mazda CX-30 Premium Plus trim has more luxurious amenities

2022 Mazda CX-30 Premium Plus steering wheel
2022 Mazda CX-30 Premium Plus steering wheel | Joe Santos, MotorBiscuit

 My test car for the week came with the Premium Plus package that features a few more luxuries that you find on lower trim levels. The most notable features included a 360-view monitor, a rear-cross traffic alert, and front and rear parking sensors. This top-trim also includes adaptive LED headlights that turn when you turn the wheel. It’s extremely nice when driving down a dark winding road.

2. The potent turbocharged engine is a must-have if you have a need for speed

2022 Mazda CX-30 Premium Plus engine
2022 Mazda CX-30 Premium Plus engine | Joe Santos, MotorBiscuit

If you need more power in your life, then I highly suggest opting for the 2.5 Turbo trim level. Under the hood of this iteration of the CX-30 is a potent turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that churns out 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque when premium fuel is used. When driving around town, the engine feels smooth and responsive. However, when you mash on the throttle pedal, you can feel the boost from the turbo kick in quickly all the way to redline.

Car and Driver tested this trim level and noted a 0 to 60 mph time of 5.8 seconds. On paper, that might not sound like much, but in a real-world driving experience, it feels surprisingly quick considering the type of car the CX-30 is.

3. If you need traction, the CX-30 has an all-wheel drivetrain

2022 Mazda CX-30 rear view
2022 Mazda CX-30 rear view | Joe Santos, MotorBiscuit

For the 2022 model year, every Mazda CX-30 model comes with the brand’s i-ACTIV AWD with off-road traction assist. While I wasn’t really able to utilize the full benefits of this system during the time I had the car, I have no doubts that it comes in handy when the road becomes unpaved. However, just don’t try rock crawling with it, it’s not that kind of car.

4. The upscale interior is better than the lower trims

2022 Mazda CX-30 Premium Plus interior
2022 Mazda CX-30 Premium Plus interior | Joe Santos, MotorBiscuit

While every Mazda CX-30’s insides look upscale, the top-trim Premium Plus model includes a full leather interior with heated seats and a heated steering wheel. Not long ago, those last two features were reserved for higher-end luxury cars. It’s safe to say that Mazda has come a long way.

5. The Bose audio system is worth the upgrade

2022 Mazda CX-30 Premium Plus Bose system
2022 Mazda CX-30 Premium Plus Bose System | Joe Santos, MotorBiscuit

Lastly, if you’re an audiophile like I am, then you’ll love the Bose premium audio system that comes on the higher trim levels. The system consists of 12 speakers a subwoofer that makes every song sound sublime. Even if that song happens to be a guilty pleasure from the 80s. Don’t worry, the outside world doesn’t need to know that you like Flock of Seagulls.

The Mazda CX-30 2.5 Premium Plus is a great trim to buy

If you like the finer things in life and want the most luxury out of your small crossover, then the Mazda CX-30 2.5 Premium Plus is the trim level to get. Its turbocharged engine, upscale interior, and amazing sound system make it worth its $34,000 price tag.

Related

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Select Is the Best Subcompact SUV Under $25K