Mazda CX-30

How it looks when you see on the street: The CX30 is a very small SUV that has good contours and feels just right for the moment we’re living in. We love a good small SUV, and we’re not afraid to own that statement, and we really like the CX-30, introduced in the throes of 2020. The CX-30’s svelte physique pops. It’s thoughtful storage capabilities help round out the gap in Mazda’s lineup.

How it makes you feel when you get in: Steady and sure. What we love about the CX-30 is that its low key, not ostentatious, but still has a personality. If you read enough car blogs that bemoan the category, we think they’ve fallen behind the times on what the people want.Mazda has added new tech options such as Alexa Built-in and Mazda Online Navigation.Our trim had the white seats complimented by a gray suede interior, a Bose premium audio system, and a 10.25 inch center touch screen.

How it drives: One might not choose a crossover because of how it drives, but actually when it comes to this Mazda, the opposite is true. Mazda has updated to the Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter, four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine.We tested the turbo engine - the one to get for extra zest that produced 220 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The nimble handling of the CX-30 is one of the reasons we gush about the small cars and SUVs made by this brand. The turbo-powered model we drove also gets about 25 miles per gallon.

Space for people and things: CX-30 is a case study in finding the sweet spot for city drivers who travel with lots of stuff.

What should you compare it to: Kia Seltos, Buick Envista.

Price: Our 2026 test vehicle, the Turbo Aire Edition (not the French band!) — is new for the 2026 model year. It had a base price of $34,410 and a total of $37,240 for minor cosmetic upgrades such as metallic paint and sill plates.