Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2023 Mazda CX-30 Preferred. This compact SUV has been making waves, and we're here to give you the lowdown on everything it offers. From its sleek design to its impressive features, we’ll cover it all. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Overview of the 2023 Mazda CX-30 Preferred

The Mazda CX-30 has always been a head-turner, and the 2023 Preferred trim is no exception. It's positioned perfectly between the standard CX-30 and the higher-end trims, offering a sweet spot of features without breaking the bank. The CX-30 is known for its stylish design, engaging driving dynamics, and a premium feel that punches above its weight class. In the crowded subcompact SUV market, the CX-30 stands out with its attention to detail and focus on the driver experience.

Exterior Design: The Kodo design language shines through with its elegant curves and sporty stance. The Preferred trim adds some nice touches like machine-finished alloy wheels and body-colored accents. These subtle enhancements elevate the overall look, giving it a more refined appearance. You'll notice the signature Mazda grille, sleek LED headlights, and a sculpted body that exudes sophistication.

Interior Comfort and Design: Stepping inside, you're greeted with a well-crafted interior that feels more luxurious than its price suggests. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives a breeze. The Preferred trim includes leatherette upholstery, which adds a touch of elegance. The cabin is thoughtfully laid out, with all the controls within easy reach. Mazda has really focused on creating a driver-centric environment, ensuring that everything you need is right at your fingertips.

Performance and Handling: Under the hood, the CX-30 Preferred packs a punch with its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. It delivers ample power for both city driving and highway cruising. The engine is responsive, and the six-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly. What sets the CX-30 apart is its handling. It feels planted and confident on the road, with precise steering and minimal body roll. Whether you're navigating tight city streets or tackling winding roads, the CX-30 delivers an engaging and enjoyable driving experience.

Technology and Features: The Preferred trim comes loaded with tech features that enhance both convenience and safety. An 8.8-inch infotainment display is standard, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The system is easy to use, with crisp graphics and quick response times. Safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features provide added peace of mind, making the CX-30 a safe and reliable choice.

What's New in the 2023 Model?

For 2023, Mazda has made a few key updates to the CX-30 lineup. One of the most significant changes is the improved fuel efficiency in the base 2.5-liter engine. Mazda has tweaked the engine and transmission to deliver better mileage without sacrificing performance. Additionally, some new color options have been added, allowing for even more customization. Mazda has also enhanced some of the safety features, providing even greater protection for drivers and passengers. These updates demonstrate Mazda's commitment to continuous improvement and ensuring that the CX-30 remains competitive in its class.

Interior and Comfort

Let's take a closer look at what makes the interior of the 2023 Mazda CX-30 Preferred so appealing. The cabin is designed with a focus on both comfort and style, creating an inviting and enjoyable space for both the driver and passengers.

Seating and Upholstery: The seats in the CX-30 Preferred are designed for long-lasting comfort. They provide ample support for your back and legs, making even the longest journeys more enjoyable. The Preferred trim comes with leatherette upholstery, which not only looks great but is also easy to clean. The stitching and detailing add a touch of sophistication, elevating the overall feel of the cabin. The rear seats also offer decent legroom, making it comfortable for adult passengers.

Infotainment System: The 8.8-inch infotainment display is a standout feature. It's bright, clear, and easy to navigate. The system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. The rotary dial controller is intuitive to use, and the voice command system works well. The Preferred trim also includes a premium audio system, which delivers crisp and clear sound quality. Whether you're listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks, the CX-30 provides an immersive audio experience.

Climate Control: The automatic climate control system in the CX-30 Preferred ensures that the cabin remains comfortable no matter the weather outside. The system is responsive and easy to adjust, allowing you to quickly find the perfect temperature. Rear air vents are also included, ensuring that passengers in the back stay comfortable as well.

Cargo Space: While the CX-30 is a subcompact SUV, it still offers a decent amount of cargo space. The rear cargo area is perfect for groceries, luggage, or other gear. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more space, making it easy to transport larger items. The cargo area is also well-designed, with tie-down hooks and a cargo cover to keep your belongings secure and out of sight.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 Preferred isn't just about looks; it also delivers an engaging and enjoyable driving experience. Mazda has a reputation for building cars that are fun to drive, and the CX-30 is no exception.

Engine and Transmission: The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine under the hood produces 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides plenty of power for both city and highway driving. The six-speed automatic transmission is smooth and responsive, providing quick and seamless gear changes. The combination of the engine and transmission makes the CX-30 feel lively and energetic.

Handling and Steering: The CX-30's handling is one of its standout features. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing excellent feedback from the road. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling. The CX-30 feels planted and confident in corners, making it a joy to drive on twisty roads. The all-wheel-drive system provides added traction and stability, making it a great choice for driving in all weather conditions.

Fuel Efficiency: Despite its sporty performance, the CX-30 is also relatively fuel-efficient. The 2023 model gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. These numbers are competitive for the subcompact SUV class. The improved fuel efficiency for 2023 makes the CX-30 an even more attractive option for those looking to save money at the pump.

Driving Modes: The CX-30 offers different driving modes that allow you to customize the driving experience. The Sport mode sharpens the throttle response and holds gears longer, providing a more engaging driving experience. The Normal mode is perfect for everyday driving, providing a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. These driving modes allow you to tailor the CX-30 to your specific needs and preferences.

Technology and Safety Features

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 Preferred is packed with technology and safety features that enhance both convenience and peace of mind. Mazda has prioritized safety, equipping the CX-30 with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies.

Infotainment and Connectivity: The 8.8-inch infotainment display is the centerpiece of the CX-30's technology offerings. The system is easy to use, with crisp graphics and quick response times. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. The Preferred trim also includes a premium audio system, which delivers excellent sound quality. The system also includes Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to make hands-free calls and stream music wirelessly.

Advanced Safety Features: The CX-30 comes standard with a wide range of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road. The adaptive cruise control system maintains a safe distance from the car in front of you, while the lane departure warning system alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane. The automatic emergency braking system can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent collision.

Blind Spot Monitoring: Blind spot monitoring is another important safety feature that comes standard on the CX-30 Preferred. This system alerts you if there is a vehicle in your blind spot, making it easier to change lanes safely. The system uses sensors to detect vehicles in your blind spots and alerts you with a visual warning in the side mirrors.

Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Rear cross traffic alert is another valuable safety feature that helps to prevent accidents when backing up. This system alerts you if there is a vehicle approaching from the side while you are backing out of a parking space or driveway. The system uses sensors to detect vehicles and alerts you with an audible warning.

Pros and Cons of the 2023 Mazda CX-30 Preferred

To give you a balanced perspective, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2023 Mazda CX-30 Preferred.

Pros:

• Stylish Design: The CX-30's Kodo design language is a head-turner.
• Engaging Driving Dynamics: It offers a fun and sporty driving experience.
• Premium Interior: The cabin feels more luxurious than its price suggests.
• Advanced Safety Features: It comes with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies.
• User-Friendly Technology: The infotainment system is easy to use and intuitive.

Cons:

• Limited Cargo Space: The cargo area is smaller compared to some competitors.
• Rear Seat Legroom: Rear seat legroom can be tight for taller passengers.
• Infotainment Screen Size: While functional, the 8.8-inch screen is smaller than some rivals.

Final Verdict

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 Preferred is a compelling choice in the subcompact SUV segment. It offers a winning combination of style, performance, and features. While it may not be the most practical choice for those who need maximum cargo space or rear seat legroom, it excels in delivering a premium driving experience at an affordable price. If you're looking for a stylish and fun-to-drive SUV that's packed with technology and safety features, the CX-30 Preferred is definitely worth considering.

So there you have it, guys! A comprehensive review of the 2023 Mazda CX-30 Preferred. We hope this has been helpful in your car-buying journey. Happy driving!