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The Mazda CX-30 on display at the Brussels Motor Show

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Continues to Be 1 of the Best Crossovers You Can Buy

In a seemingly endless sea of crossover options, it’s easy for a new model introduction to go unnoticed or at least take a little time before consumers fully embrace it. With so many competitors in the SUV space, it’s a tall order to break into the segment for any automaker. But the Mazda CX-30 managed …

In a seemingly endless sea of crossover options, it’s easy for a new model introduction to go unnoticed or at least take a little time before consumers fully embrace it. With so many competitors in the SUV space, it’s a tall order to break into the segment for any automaker. But the Mazda CX-30 managed to pull off a great first impression with its grand introduction for its 2020 model year. And it continues to grow in consumer popularity among SUV buyers with its ideal subcompact size and Mazda-like personality. It even made a recent critic best-of list, citing the CX-30’s position among the best crossovers you can buy today.

The Mazda CX-30 is more than a one-hit wonder

The Mazda CX-30 made its big splash debut at the Geneva Motor Show in 2019 as a 2020 model. Loosely based on the fourth-generation Mazda3, the CX-30 came in like a Miley Cyrus wrecking ball of success. And it’s keeping the popularity momentum heading into 2021.

New for this model year, the Mazda CX-30 is offering a turbocharged engine option, Apple and Android smartphone integration is now standard, and the Bose stereo system is available in the Premium package. The Mazda CX-30 is proving to be more than a one-hit wonder.

What Mazda had in mind when bringing it to life

When Mazda introduced the CX-30, the original intentions were to have this subcompact crossover slide in between the CX-3 and the CX-5 in the SUV lineup. But due to the immense popularity of the CX-30, it may be overshadowing the CX-3 and has created cause for Mazda to change direction with its plan for the CX-30. Instead of slotting between SUVs, Mazda is planning to phase out the less impressive CX-3, hopeful the CX-30 will be a more successful replacement in the crossover portfolio.

The Mazda CX-3 is getting phased out of the lineup

Mazda saw the writing on the wall and recognized consumers were not embracing the Mazda CX-3 as much as they were the CX-30. The automaker is planning to phase out the CX-3 for other reasons as well. This year, the CX-3 will only be available in its Sport version, with its 2.0-liter Skyactiv I-4, according to Automobile Mag.

Mazda isn’t neglecting the CX-3, however, adding a few other extras, including the i-Activesense Package, at no additional cost. But with less horsepower and less cargo than the CX-30, along with its lack of an infotainment touchscreen, many are doubting it will sway any CX-30 buyers away.

The Mazda CX-30 is suggested to be one of the best crossovers you can buy

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 maybe the new kid on the block, but it’s chock-full of traditional Mazda design characteristics that consumers love. It offers great handling, an upscale interior, and a thoroughly enjoyable ride all around. The standard four-cylinder, 186-horsepower engine provides plenty of pep. And there are more driver assistance features than you can imagine. 

U.S. News named the Mazda CX-30 on their list of the best SUVs you can buy in 2021. Their sentiments champion this subcompact SUV’s confidence on the road, saying things like, “handling is exceptional” and “steering provides excellent feedback.” Out of a possible 10 score for this best-of list, the 2021 Mazda CX-30 earned an impressive 8.2.

Check out this recent evaluation of available SUVs this year. And definitely make time to test-drive the 2021 Mazda CX-30 for yourself. It may be the crossover that fits perfectly in your driveway and your budget with its starting MSRP of $21,900.

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