2026 Mazda CX-30 G20 Pure review

TheMazda CX-30remains a popular vehicle, but it’s not typically a budget-friendly option.

Forget cookie-cutter crossovers. Mazda’s compact SUV squares off against contenders like the Toyota Corolla Cross and Subaru Crosstrek. While the price tags might dance a similar tune, these Japanese rivals stand apart from the value-packed offerings emerging from Chinese automakers. It’s a global showdown where price meets pedigree, and features face finesse.

Forget bare-bones SUVs. The CX-30 isn’t chasing that sub-$30,000 title. It’s the aspirational choice, delivering premium tech and materials within reach of everyday budgets. It’s where attainable luxury meets the road.

Here’s a taste of what awaits on the test track: the 2025 Mazda CX-30 G20 Pure. Stripped back to its essence, it sheds the luxury of leather and ditches the cutting-edge driver aids of its siblings. Forget about the powerful engines found higher up the CX-30 family tree. The result? A price tag that’s considerably lighter too.

The only issue is that it isn’t actually that cheap.

While the CX-30’s entry price dips below the $34,000 mark, saving you nearly $2000 compared to the next model up, remember a time when this spunky crossover started under $30,000? That’s a hefty climb since its 2020 debut, so you might be asking, "Is this CX-30 still the same irresistible deal?"

Ouch. The CX-30’s price tag stings even more when you realize its Chinese rivals – the Chery Tiggo 4, MG ZS, and GWM Haval Jolion – are cruising in the mid-$20,000s and leaving it in the dust. Sales figures for the first seven months of 2025 paint a clear picture: these budget-friendly contenders are winning the popularity contest, leaving the CX-30 trailing behind.

Forget cheap. The Hyundai Kona now reigns as Australia’s top-selling small SUV, but at $32,700 (before on-roads), it’s a considered purchase. Yet, that price point carves a sweet spot, significantly undercutting the Mazda CX-30 and even squeezing past its smaller sibling, the CX-3, priced at $30,370 (before on-roads), luring value-conscious buyers into the Kona’s orbit.

Does the CX-30 work as a budget-oriented small SUV, or should you go for something cheaper?

How much does the Mazda CX-30 cost?

Prepare your wallets! Mazda just announced a $120 price bump across the entire 2025 CX-30 lineup. That sleek ride you’ve been eyeing? It’ll now set you back at least $34,060beforeyou factor in those pesky on-road costs.

| Model | Price before on-road costs | | — | — | |2025 Mazda CX-30 G20 Pure|$34,060| | 2025 Mazda CX-30 G20 Evolve | $35,960 | | 2025 Mazda CX-30 G20 Touring | $39,760 | | 2025 Mazda CX-30 G25 Touring | $41,260 | | 2025 Mazda CX-30 G20 Touring LE | $42,060 | | 2025 Mazda CX-30 G25 GT SP | $43,260 | | 2025 Mazda CX-30 G20 Astina | $44,960 | | 2025 Mazda CX-30 G25 GT SP AWD | $45,260 | | 2025 Mazda CX-30 G25 Astina | $46,460 | | 2025 Mazda CX-30 G25 Astina AWD | $48,460 |

The budget-friendly small SUV market is a battlefield. The Hyundai Kona leads the charge at $32,700, but a wave of contenders are snapping at its heels. Think the MG ZS and GWM Haval Jolion, both punching in around $26,990 drive-away. The Chery Tiggo 4 storms in even lower at $23,990 drive-away, while the Mitsubishi ASX throws its hat in the ring from $24,490. The fight for your dollar is fierce.

The CX-30 sits in a sweet spot: every competitor undercuts it on price. Cars like the ASX are practically museum pieces, lingering on dealer lots. Yet, the Subaru Crosstrek and Toyota Corolla Cross, close rivals in popularity, actuallycost more. It’s a head-scratcher in the compact SUV showdown.

To see how the Mazda CX-30 stacks up against its rivals, use ourcomparison tool

Let us help you find your new car

Buy your new car without the stress. It’s fast, simple and completely free.

"Travis and his crew knocked it out of the park again! This is the second time I’ve entrusted them with my business, and honestly, I wouldn’t send anyone anywhere else. Top-notch service, exceptional results – they’re the real deal."

Craig C.

Purchased a Ford Ranger in Sunshine Coast, QLD

childcareman.xyz helped Craig save $7,224 on his Ford Ranger, now let us save you on your next new car.

Get your BEST price

What is the Mazda CX-30 like on the inside?

In typical Mazda form, it feels familiar, and it’ll be easy to hop in and quickly get comfortable.

The CX-30 Pure might be the entry point to Mazda’s lineup, but don’t let that fool you. Forget drab, base-model basics. Even with its black cloth upholstery, the seats hug you just right, providing surprising comfort even on those marathon road trips.

Forget icy leather shock on a chilly morning! Sink into the CX-30’s embrace – its cloth seats are infinitely kinder on a cold commute, especially if you skip the seat heater. The driving position is spot-on too. Mazda’s signature high window line cocoons you in a secure feeling, never cramped, a comforting characteristic shared with its sibling, the Mazda 3.

Finding that perfect driving position in the CX-30 takes a touch more effort than its higher-priced siblings. Without the convenience of electric seat adjustments, settling in requires a more hands-on approach. But don’t let that deter you. With a generous range of motion in both the seats and steering wheel, you’ll eventually discover that sweet spot, tailored precisely to your comfort.

Even in its most accessible form, this car offers the tactile luxury of a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Its generous size and slender rim invite your grip, fostering a connection that belies the absence of paddle shifters. The result? A delightfully responsive feel, injecting an unexpected dose of agility into every drive.

The tech inside the CX-30? Let’s just say Mazda’s stuck to its guns. Prepare to twirl that familiar center console dial again to navigate the infotainment system. A touchscreen it is not.

I find this setup surprisingly comfortable. Imagine sinking back into your seat, effortlessly navigating menus without a stretch or strain. In the CX-30, this relaxed interaction is a game-changer; the 8.8-inch screen feels miles away, making the leaning-back posture less of a luxury and more of a necessity.

The display is buried deep within the dash, creating an unfortunate peekaboo effect where its housing’s rim occasionally steals the spotlight. Thankfully, unlike many of its Mazda siblings, this screen responds to touch even when you’re barreling down the road – assuming your arm can stretch far enough to reach it.

CarPlay and Android Auto feel a bit like unwelcome guests in the CX-30. While present, their wired-only connection feels like a step back, especially when budget-friendly competitors are cutting the cord. Forget graceful fingertip control; you’ll wrestle with the dial, a clumsy stand-in for the touchscreen finesse you crave. Mazda’s system shines, but when you venture into smartphone territory, prepare for a slightly frustrating user experience.

The cockpit whispers a tale of two worlds. At first glance, the instrument panel could be mistaken for the CX-30 Pure’s bare essentials: a simple circular digital display bookended by traditional analog gauges. But look closer. This unassuming arrangement is a constant, a familiar face across the entire CX-30 family, no matter the trim.

The central display offers customizable views, but the digital speedometer stands out – a crisp, clean layout delivering essential information at a glance. Below the infotainment screen, Mazda’s familiar climate controls reside, though anticipate a few vacant buttons hinting at premium features reserved for upper trim levels.

The controls remain satisfyingly solid, each button a precise click under your fingertips, even when you’re barreling down the highway.

The steering wheel sprouts a cluster of buttons, each molded in disappointingly drab plastic, a far cry from the sleek allure of piano black. Regrettably, the center console and door armrests still flaunt patches of that fingerprint-magnet, glossy plastic.

Forget digging around for charging ports or struggling to fit your oversized water bottle. The CX-30’s cockpit is thoughtfully designed with everyday convenience in mind. Beneath the central armrest, discover a surprisingly spacious storage compartment, complete with dual USB-C ports ready to power your devices. Thirsty? No problem. Perfectly positioned cupholders sit just below the dash, easily accommodating even the tallest 750mL drink bottle. Stay connected, stay hydrated, and stay focused on the road ahead.

Storage solutions are a mixed bag. A glovebox graces the passenger side, but the door bottle holders fall short of accommodating larger drink bottles. Overhead, a sunglasses holder offers a touch of practicality. For wireless phone charging, you’ll need to upgrade to the G20 Evolve.

Cramped rear quarters in the CX-30 are one thing, but the back seat experience is an exercise in automotive austerity. Forget pampering passengers; you won’t even find basic necessities. No air vents to combat stuffiness, no USB port to charge devices. For a ‘Pure’ base model, some omissions are forgivable. But at over $35,000? That bare-bones backseat feels less like a design choice and more like a daylight robbery.

The cabin offers generous space, though a central driveline hump intrudes slightly. Sadly, a fold-down armrest is absent. Storage is limited to a single passenger-side map pocket and somewhat undersized bottle holders in the door cards practicality takes a backseat.

Beneath the CX-30’s sturdy cargo cover lies a surprising amount of room. While the initial impression might not scream "spacious," the long floor unveils a practical haven, ready to swallow groceries and everyday essentials with ease.

The entryway presented a challenge: a towering lip guarded the flat expanse beyond. Imagine a perfectly smooth dance floor, interrupted only by cleverly concealed alcoves tucked into the back corners, perfect for stashing secrets or forgotten treasures.

Think of the cargo area as cozy, not cavernous. While it might not swallow luggage whole like some rivals – the MG ZS (443L), Hyundai Kona (407L), or Toyota C-HR (388L) – and even the MG ZS Hybrid+ (443L), it offers more room than the Subaru Crosstrek’s snug trunk (291L). Need more room? Folding the 60/40 split rear seats transforms this compact space into something surprisingly spacious.

Tucked beneath the floor, you’ll find a space-saver spare – a welcome sight over those messy tire repair kits. Though, peering into that cavity, a thought nags: with a bit of Mazda magic, couldn’t they have squeezed in a full-size?

| Dimensions | Mazda CX-30 | | — | — | |Length| 4395mm | |Width| 1795mm | |Height| 1540mm | |Wheelbase| 2655mm | |Cargo capacity (VDA)| 317L |

To see how the Mazda CX-30 stacks up against its rivals, use ourcomparison tool

What’s under the bonnet?

Beneath the sculpted hood of the Mazda beats the heart of ‘G20’: a spirited 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that breathes freely, untamed by turbochargers. Its energy flows through a precise six-speed automatic, delivering a driving experience that’s purely Mazda, purely exhilarating, and driven straight to the front wheels.

| Specifications | Mazda CX-30 G20 | | — | — | |Engine| 2.0L 4cyl petrol | |Power| 114kW | |Torque| 200Nm | |Transmission| 6-speed automatic | |Drive type| Front-wheel drive | |Kerb weight| 1468kg | |Fuel economy (claimed)| 6.3L/100km | |Fuel economy (as tested)| 6.8L/100km | |Fuel tank capacity| 51L | |Fuel requirement| 91-octane regular unleaded | |CO2 emissions| 147g/km | |Emissions standard| Euro 5 | |Unbraked tow capacity| 600kg | |Braked tow capacity| 1200kg |

The highway became our asphalt river for a week, punctuated by fleeting dips into Melbourne’s urban rapids and the tranquil pools of Victoria’s small towns.

Our recorded fuel economy was still worse than Mazda’s claim, even with low-demand driving, but still within an appropriate ballpark.

To see how the Mazda CX-30 stacks up against its rivals, use ourcomparison tool

How does the Mazda CX-30 drive?

The back-to-basics vibe of the CX-30 Pure carries through to its on-road behaviour.

Note: CX-30 Evolve pictured

The CX-30’s robust foundation proves surprisingly versatile in the Pure trim. It’s a budget-friendly package where every element feels thoughtfully chosen, hitting the mark with understated competence.

The G20’s engine doesn’t just reach freeway speeds; it launches you there. And surprisingly, once you’re cruising, the engine settles into a quiet hum that belies its initial burst of power.

However, summoning highway speeds or executing a daring overtake requires a heavier foot. The CX-30’s G20 engine, though sharing its DNA with the more spirited Mazda 3, feels subtly subdued in this application – a slight deficit that becomes apparent when demanding rapid acceleration.

The Mazda 3 offers a solid foundation with its G20 engine, but the 2.5-liter G25 is a tempting performance leap. Yet, the G25 feels almost destined for the CX-30. Of course, fuel efficiency would take a hit, making the peppy G20 perhaps best reserved for the no-frills Pure trim, leaving the pricier models to other engines.

The six-speed automatic transmission, however, occasionally acts like a hesitant dancer, tripping over its own feet. This awkwardness surfaces most prominently from a dead stop, or during those delicate moments of throttle application and release. Regrettably, this isn’t the first Mazda automatic we’ve observed exhibiting this peculiar two-step.

"Forget fingertip gear changes; this CX-30 keeps things simple. No paddle shifters mean you’re ceding control, focusing less on sporty thrills and more on dependable duty. Think rental fleets and company cars – less race track, more reliable transit."

What truly sets the CX-30 apart is its surprisingly athletic handling. Forget the typical SUV vagueness; the steering possesses a satisfying weight, lending a tactile connection to the road. It’s a feeling that transcends mere transportation, evoking the sense of piloting a finely crafted machine rather than a budget-conscious compromise.

This car dances on winding roads, yet nimbly navigates the urban jungle. Out on the open highway, it’s a composed cruiser, transforming long journeys into effortless escapes.

Trusted Reviews, Smarter Choices, Better Prices

Stop dreaming, start driving. Childcareman.xyz: Expert car reviews, personalized car buying, and real savings – all in one place. Find your perfect new car, effortlessly.

View showroom

Compare cars Get your BEST price

Trading agility for comfort means feeling the bumps. Spend any significant time on poorly maintained backroads, and the CX-30’s ride becomes noticeably stiff, a characteristic we’ve observed before, especially in G20 models. Long journeys on rough surfaces can transform into endurance tests.

The Mazda CX-30 G20 Pure asks for forgiveness, not permission. As Mazda’s entry-level SUV, it trades some refinement for affordability. Think of it as a scrappy underdog that punches above its weight. On the open road, where surfaces smooth out, it’s surprisingly composed. Tram tracks and speed bumps? Child’s play. This is the SUV that shrugs off urban obstacles with a grin.

The Pure nimbly shrugs off road noise at higher speeds, a surprising feat owed to its footwear. Ditching the larger 18-inch alloys found elsewhere in the range, the Pure rolls on more modest 16-inch wheels wrapped in tires with generous sidewalls. This chunky rubber not only cushions the ride, but also swallows up minor road imperfections, leaving you gliding along in relative tranquility.

The CX-30 hits the sweet spot for a compact SUV, but temper your expectations. Think practical and agile, not opulent and plush, when you slide behind the wheel.

The Pure keeps things refreshingly simple, so don’t go looking for a tech-laden cockpit. Forget front parking sensors and a fancy surround-view camera. Lane-trace assist? Nope. But before you write it off, the adaptive cruise control is a surprisingly capable co-pilot, smoothly syncing with the ebb and flow of traffic.

Mazda’s driver-side mirror offers a close-up view, a design choice that can initially throw off your spatial awareness. That’s where the blind-spot monitoring system shines, acting as your digital peripheral vision. But don’t worry, expansive windows and a well-designed cabin make quick head checks a breeze, keeping you confidently aware of your surroundings.

Imagine the system’s like a coiled spring. It tenses at the sight of sluggish traffic ahead, instinctively holding back. But unleash it to overtake, and it needs a heartbeat to fully unwind and spring forward, reclaiming its momentum.

Even when the skies turned sour, our week-long test drive revealed a steadfast guardian in the car’s safety systems, weathering every challenge with quiet competence. No heart-stopping moments, just reassuring vigilance.

To see how the Mazda CX-30 stacks up against its rivals, use ourcomparison tool

What do you get?

The Pure is the most basic CX-30 available, but it still comes with a decent amount of standard features.

2025 Mazda CX-30 G20 Pure equipment highlights:

• Mazda Connected Services

• Vehicle locator
• Geofencing
• Flashing lights feature
• Curfew notifications
• Remote locking
• Vehicle health
• Status reports
• Stolen vehicle tracking assistance

• 16-inch grey alloy wheels
• Space-saver spare wheel
• Automatic LED headlights
• Automatic high-beam
• Rain-sensing wipers
• Automatic power-folding side mirrors
• 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster
• 8.8-inch infotainment system
• Head-up display
• Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• 2 x USB-C ports (replaces USB-A)
• Satellite navigation
• DAB+ digital radio
• Eight-speaker sound system
• Push-button start
• Leather-wrapped shifter
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Fabric upholstery

CX-30 Evolve adds:

• 18-inch silver alloy wheels
• Paddle shifters
• Dual-zone climate control
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Wireless phone charger
• Overhead sunglass storage
• Rear fold-down centre armrest

CX-30 Touring adds:

• Front parking sensors
• Auto-dimming driver’s side mirror
• Reverse tilt-down driver’s side mirror
• Side mirror memory
• Keyless entry
• Illuminated front vanity mirrors
• Black leather upholstery
• 10-way power driver’s seat
• Two-position driver’s seat memory

Above: CX-30 Touring LE

CX-30 Touring LE adds:

• Black 18-inch alloy wheels
• Black grille
• Signature spoiler
• Black mirror caps
• Terracotta ‘Maztex’ and suede upholstery
• Terracotta armrest, centre console, door card and dashboard contrast stitching
• Vision Technology package

• Front cross-traffic alert
• Cruising & Traffic Support
• Driver monitoring system
• Surround-view monitor
• 10.25-inch infotainment system

Over the Touring, CX-30 GT SP adds:

• 18-inch black alloy wheels
• Power tilt and slide glass sunroof
• Gloss black grille
• Gloss black side mirrors
• 10.25-inch infotainment system
• Heated steering wheel
• Heated front seats
• Burgundy leather upholstery

CX-30 Astina adds:

• 18-inch silver alloy wheels
• Adaptive LED headlights
• Power tailgate
• 12-speaker Bose premium sound system
• Frameless rear-view mirror
• Black leather upholstery
• Front cross-traffic alert
• Cruising & Traffic Support
• Driver monitoring
• Surround-view camera

To see how the Mazda CX-30 stacks up against its rivals, use ourcomparison tool

Is the Mazda CX-30 safe?

The Mazda CX-30 received a five-star ANCAP safety rating based on testing conducted by Euro NCAP back in 2019.

| Category | Mazda CX-30 | | — | — | |Adult occupant protection| 99 per cent | |Child occupant protection| 88 per cent | |Vulnerable road user protection| 80 per cent | |Safety assist| 76 per cent |

Standard CX-30 safety features include:

• 7 airbags, including:

• Front side
• Curtain
• Driver’s knee

• Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)

• Pedestrian detection
• Cyclist detection

• Rear AEB
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Lane-keep assist
• Lane departure warning
• Driver attention alert
• Traffic sign recognition
• Rear parking sensors
• Reversing camera
• Tyre pressure monitoring

CX-30 Touring adds:

• Front parking sensors

CX-30 Touring LE and Astina add:

• Front cross-traffic alert
• Cruising & Traffic Support
• Driver monitoring system
• Surround-view monitor

To see how the Mazda CX-30 stacks up against its rivals, use ourcomparison tool

How much does the Mazda CX-30 cost to run?

Mazda protects your CX-30 with a comprehensive five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, ensuring peace of mind on every journey. Plus, enjoy five years of complimentary roadside assistance, a reliable guardian angel always on call. Regular servicing, conveniently scheduled every 12 months or 15,000km, keeps your CX-30 performing at its peak. Think of it as a wellness program, designed to keep your Mazda healthy and happy mile after exhilarating mile.

| Servicing and Warranty | Mazda CX-30 | | — | — | |Warranty| 5 years, unlimited kilometres | |Roadside assistance| 5 years | |Service intervals| 12 months or 15,000km | |Capped-price servicing| 7 years | |Average annual capped-price service cost| $462.43 | |Total capped-price service cost| $3237 |

Mazda’s service pricing, accurate as of August 13, 2025, is detailed below.

| Service | Price | | — | — | | 1yr, 15,000km | $353 | | 2yrs, 30,000km | $558 | | 3yrs, 45,000km | $429 | | 4yrs, 60,000km | $558 | | 5yrs, 75,000km | $353 | | 6yrs, 90,000km | $633 | | 7yrs, 105,000km | $353 |

For context, a front-wheel drive CX-30 G25 will cost $3284 to service over seven years.

To see how the Mazda CX-30 stacks up against its rivals, use ourcomparison tool

Let us help you find your new car

Buy your new car without the stress. It’s fast, simple and completely free.

"Travis and his crew knocked it out of the park again! This is my second time relying on them, and honestly, I wouldn’t trust anyone else. If you need [mention their service], look no further – these guys are the real deal."

Craig C.

Purchased a Ford Ranger in Sunshine Coast, QLD

childcareman.xyz helped Craig save $7,224 on his Ford Ranger, now let us save you on your next new car.

Get your BEST price

childcareman.xyz’s Take on the Mazda CX-30 G20 Pure

The G20 Pure may strip CX-30 back to its fundamentals, but it doesn’t compromise the car’s solid nature.

The CX-30 Pure punches above its weight. Built on a rock-solid foundation, it’s a smart buy for budget-conscious drivers and a potentially shrewd fleet choice. Inside, the focus is on resilience, not frills, suggesting a car built to withstand the rigors of daily use.

Don’t let the cloth seats fool you – they’re surprisingly comfortable, even on longer journeys. The leather-wrapped steering wheel adds a touch of luxury, and you can always count on Mazda’s dependable tech to perform flawlessly, just like in their higher-end models.

The Pure’s price tag stings, especially when compared to its competitors. While the powertrain lacks a certain spark, it surprisingly finds a more harmonious home in this minimalist package than in the pricier CX-30 models. The ride quality echoes this sentiment – a tale of two experiences separated by trim levels.

Mazda’s CX-30: playing it safe, but is it safe enough for your wallet? Competitors offer more bang for your buck. Die-hard Mazda fans might find the CX-3 a more sensible, budget-friendly SUV, or treat themselves to a CX-30 upgrade for a superior experience.

childcareman.xyz can save you thousands on a new Mazda CX-30. Clickhereto get a great deal.

Click the images for the full gallery

Explore the Mazda CX-30 showroom

Thanks for reading 2026 Mazda CX-30 G20 Pure review