Best & Worst Mazda CX-30 Years

We've ranked each Mazda CX-30 model for every generation so you can avoid picking the worst Mazda CX-30 years and pick the best one.

In this exhaustive guide, we’ll dive deep into the Mazda CX-30’s evolution, uncovering the cream of the crop and the lemons to steer clear of.

Buckle up as we navigate through each generation, equipped with data from major hitters like the NHTSA, Consumer Reports, and Kelley Blue Book.

We’re not just skimming the surface here. We’ll dissect the CX-30’s engine options, tech advancements, and the impact of recalls on its street cred. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll be a CX-30 expert, ready to make an educated decision that’ll have you cruising with confidence.

Ready to separate the wheat from the chaff? Let’s hit the gas!

Related:Best & Worst Mazda CX-5 YearsBest & Worst Mazda CX-9 Years

Table of ContentsShow

Mazda CX-30 Generations

The Mazda CX-30 burst onto the scene in 2020, quickly turning heads in the compact SUV world. It’s the Goldilocks of Mazda’s lineup – not too big, not too small, but just right for those craving more space than the CX-3 without the bulk of the CX-5.

This stylish newcomer has been turning heads with its elegant design, plush interior, and zippy performance. It’s like Mazda took everything people love about their cars and packed it into a compact SUV that’s perfect for urban adventures and weekend getaways alike.

Here’s a quick snapshot of the CX-30’s timeline:

GenerationYears
1st Generation (DM)2020-Present

Keep your eyes peeled for the substantial changes between generations. These shifts in performance, tech, and design could be the dealmakers (or breakers) for you astute shoppers out there.

Mazda CX-30 Best, Neutral, and Worst Years

When it comes to crowning the kings and calling out the jesters of the Mazda CX-30 lineup, we don’t mess around. Our rankings are based on a diverse array of factors, including:

  • What the owners are saying (straight from the horse’s mouth)
  • How much it’ll cost you to keep it purring
  • Safety ratings (because nobody likes a deathtrap)
  • Consumer Reports’ reliability scores (they know their stuff)
  • How happy owners are with their purchase (buyer’s remorse is real)
  • NHTSA recalls, investigations, and complaints (the official dirt)
  • Ratings from Edmunds, JD Power, Kelley Blue Book, VehicleHistory, and Cars.com (we leave no stone unturned)

Hang tight for a graph that’ll show you the big picture of how these ratings stack up.

Mazda CX 30 Car Smite Score Combined Overall Score

We’ve sorted all CX-30 model years into three camps: the stars, the okay-but-not-great, and the ones you might want to think twice about. Here’s the lowdown:

  • Best Years: These are the cream of the crop. Low recalls, happy owners, and smooth sailing all around.
  • Worst Years: The problem children. More recalls than a faulty toaster and enough complaints to make your ears ring.
GenerationBest YearsWorst Years
1st Generation (DM)2022
2023
2024
2020
2021

Remember, a boatload of recalls and complaints is like a big red flag waving in your face when it comes to reliability.

Alright, let’s get into the fine points of which years shine and which ones fizzle.

Best & Worst Years for Mazda CX-30 1st Generation (2020-Present)

Mazda CX 30 1st generation 2020 model
The 2020 Mazda CX-30

The 2020 Mazda CX-30 hit the streets running, ready to take on the compact crossover SUV world with style, pep, and enough tech to make a Silicon Valley startup jealous.

After crunching the numbers and listening to the buzz, here’s the verdict: 2022 to 2024 are the golden years for the CX-30, while 2020 and 2021 might give you more headaches than thrills.

The Best Years: 2022, 2023, 2024

Looking for the most dependable Mazda CX-30? You can’t go wrong with the 2022, 2023, or 2024 models. These years are when Mazda really hit their stride, ironing out the kinks and delivering a first-rate ride.

Under the hood, you’ve got options:

  • The standard Skyactiv-G 2.5L naturally aspirated engine, churning out a respectable 186 horses
  • For thrill-seekers, there’s the Skyactiv-G 2.5 Turbo, pushing up to a whopping 250 hp when you feed it the good stuff (premium gas, that is)

Both engines play well with a six-speed automatic transmission, giving you that perfect blend of oomph and efficiency. And speaking of efficiency, the 2.5L non-turbo engine sips fuel at a rate of about 26 mpg in the city and 33 on the highway. Not too shabby!

Mazda didn’t skimp on safety either. The i-Activsense suite comes packed with goodies like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Plus, they’ve jazzed up the infotainment system, making it easier to use than ever.

With a range of trims from basic to luxurious (Premium Plus, anyone?), there’s a CX-30 for every taste and budget.

The Worst Years: 2020, 2021

Now, onto the years that might make you wince: 2020 and 2021. These early birds caught the worm, alright – the worm of low Consumer Reports scores in reliability and owner contentment.

Here is the edited text: What went amiss? Well, for starters:

  • Some engines were thirstier for oil than a camel in the desert
  • Low oil warnings popped up more often than ads on a free mobile game
  • Safety recalls for issues like fuel leaks from disconnected vent hoses
  • Loose front brake caliper bolts (yikes!)
  • Complaints about funhouse mirror-style windshield distortion

Despite these hiccups, the CX-30 still won hearts with its sporty handling and fancy interior. But if you’re shopping used, you might want to think twice before bringing home a 2020 or 2021 model.

For the detailed on recalls and complaints, check out the NHTSA reports for the 2020 and 2021 Mazda CX-30.

Mazda CX-30 Resale Values

Inquisitive about how well the CX-30 holds its value? Check out this graph showing the average resale values from 2020 to now:

Mazda CX 30 Average List Price

Conclusion

So, what’s the evaluation on the best year for the Mazda CX-30?

After putting all the models under the microscope, the 2022 to 2024 CX-30s come out on top. They’ve got the reliability, features, and fewer headaches that make for a sweet ride. On the flip side, you might want to pump the brakes on the 2020 and 2021 models unless you’re up for potential challenges.

Now it’s your turn: What makes or breaks a vehicle for you when you’re in the market for something like the CX-30?

Drop your thoughts in the comments – we’re all ears!

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Jonathan Eckert

Jonathan is an ASE-certified mechanic with over 22 years of hands-on experience in the automotive industry. His expertise spans a wide range of vehicles, but he specializes in diagnosing and repairing Japanese cars. His previous workplace highly commended his meticulous attention to detail, and that's exaclty what he uses at Car Smite to craft the best guides for each purpose.