Best New Small SUV in 2023 Isn’t a Toyota or Honda, Says US News
Drivers have been drawn to small crossover SUVs in greater numbers in recent years. And two of the most popular models for the subcompact SUV segment are the Toyota Corolla Cross and the Honda HR-V. However, the best new small SUV in 2023 isn’t either of these two models, according to U.S. News & World Report. It’s the 2023 Mazda CX-30.
2023 Mazda CX-30 is the best new small SUV, according to US News
The Honda HR-V was one of the first subcompact crossover SUVs, debuting 25 years ago. And it’s much improved in 2023 with a redesign. Also, while the Corolla Cross debuted more recently for the 2022 model year, it quickly rose in popularity, partly due to it sharing the name and styling elements with the top-selling Corolla sedan. Plus, the Corolla Cross offers a new hybrid model in 2023. In terms of buzz and consumer demand, both of these models overshadow the Mazda CX-30.
However, the best new small SUV in 2023 is neither the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross nor the 2023 Honda HR-V, says U.S. News. The publication ranks the 2023 Mazda CX-30 as the best model in the subcompact SUV segment. Following the CX-30, the 2023 Kia Soul and the 2023 Hyundai Kona place second and third, respectively. The HR-V ranks fifth, while the Corolla Cross is in eighth place.
Here are the best new subcompact SUVs in 2023, according to U.S. News:
- 2023 Mazda CX-30
- 2023 Kia Soul
- 2023 Hyundai Kona
- 2023 Kia Seltos
- 2023 Honda HR-V
- 2023 Volkswagen Taos
- 2023 Buick Encore GX
- 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross
What makes the Mazda CX-30 a top choice for a subcompact SUV?
There are several things that make the 2023 Mazda CX-30 a U.S. News top choice for a small SUV. For one, it’s one of the most fun-to-drive models in the segment — offering a more exciting driving experience than the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross and the 2023 Honda HR-V.
Like other Mazda models, the CX-30 has excellent driving dynamics, with precise steering, agile handling, confident braking, and a great deal of maneuverability. The driving dynamics are also aided by the high-quality suspension, which provides a good balance between ride comfort and athleticism.
Also, the CX-30 delivers superb performance, especially with its available turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. It does out 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft — with a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds. Also, a traction-enhancing all-wheel drive system comes standard for all trim levels.
Another strength of the Mazda CX-30 is its upscale interior. With its high-quality materials and premium amenities, it’s more luxurious than most models in the small SUV segment, including the Toyota Corolla Cross and the Honda HR-V.
2023 CX-30 also provides great value
Also, the 2023 CX-30 provides great value with its many standard features. This helped make it a finalist for the U.S. News “Best Subcompact SUV for the Money” award.
Even the base-level 2.5 S trim has standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, power-folding side mirrors, push-button start, a remote keyless entry system, an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a backup camera, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beam headlights, and a lane-keeping assist feature. There’s also the aforementioned all-wheel drive system.
And for all of that, the CX-30 has an affordable starting price of $22,950 MSRP, which is cheaper than the Corolla Cross ($23,060 MSRP) and the HR-V ($23,800 MSRP).
According to U.S. News, the best small SUV is the 2023 Mazda CX-30. With its good driving dynamics, excellent performance, upscale interior, and many standard features, the CX-30 beats all other subcompact crossover SUVs, including the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross and the 2023 Honda HR-V.
