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Should you buy a new Mazda CX-30 or a used one? Our experts compare pricing and features on a new vs used Mazda CX-30. Read our thoughts here.
Madza CX-30: Buy New or Used?
mazdausa.com | netcarshow.com | Shop Mazda CX-30 on Carsforsale.com
Conventional wisdom is that to save a buck, it’s usually best to buy a used car over a new one. Due to a number of factors, the used-car market has quickly shot up in value and shows no obvious signs of crashing anytime soon. With that in mind, we’re wondering if it makes more sense just to pony up the cash for a new model as opposed to buying a used Mazda CX-30. To find out we’re going to compare everything about the new 2022 CX-30 to its 2020 debut model. We’ll talk specs, driving characteristics, interior quality, and round out our discussion by talking about what’s been updated over the last two years. Then, we’ll tell you which of the pair deserves more of your attention.
New vs Used Mazda CX-30 Specs
For 2020, the CX-30 was a brand new vehicle for Mazda and came in four distinct trim levels. Among the bunch all used the same 186-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard though all-wheel-drive was optional on every trim. The EPA estimates that no matter which CX-30 you pick, you’ll get between 26 and 28 mpg combined. The CX-30 has proven to hold its value well and even models with relatively higher mileage will cost above $20,000 in most cases. Many are still around $30,000 or more.
The new 2022 Mazda CX-30 features AWD on every trim as standard equipment. In addition, Mazda now includes two engine options and effectively doubled the trim count to eight. The same six-speed automatic is standard across the lineup. Now that a turbo engine is available, power ranges from 186-horsepower up to 250-horsepower. Despite that large gap, the EPA estimates that turbo owners will get 25 mpg combined while the base four-cylinder gets 26. Interestingly, the base 2022 Mazda CX-30 MSRP is $23,425 and even if you go for the top trim the MSRP is $35,625.
Driving Characteristics
Since this vehicle has only existed since 2020, there haven’t been many major updates that change the way they handle, steer, or brake. Each of those qualities is well above average for the class though. Mazda has always known how to make cars drive well and the CX-30 is no different. Steering input provides quick clear feedback and both pedals are easy to modulate. Body roll is also kept to a minimum no matter how hard the turns get.
Where they really differ is with the addition of the turbocharged engine that came about in 2021. It’s downright fast in this small SUV and that makes it one of the most engaging vehicles in the segment right away. We could nitpick little things if we tried though. The engine won’t rev to redline unless you turn off traction control, it’s not very fuel efficient, and the transmission can take a while to drop a gear when you want it to. Still, those are tiny gripes with an otherwise excellent powertrain.
Interior Comfort
Unsurprisingly, these two cars share almost identical interiors. Both are excellent though and it’s hard to find a cause for complaint. Some buyers will moan about the lack of a touchscreen infotainment system but frankly, the navigation buttons and wheel in the center console are easy to learn and easy to use. No system is perfect but we do think that Mazda has found a nice way to help drivers navigate menus with minimal distraction here while providing satisfying and clear feedback.
The seats themselves could be a bit more comfortable for a taller person like myself. The upper half of the seat feels like it’s falling away from where I expect it to be. At the same time, the rear seats are more comfortable than one might expect of such a small vehicle. Cargo space isn’t bad either. The CX-30 isn’t cavernous but it really does hit a sweet spot between different segments.
Trims and Features
For 2020, the CX-30 arrived in four trim levels.
Base – This trim received LED lighting, alloy wheels, forward collision warning, and an 8.8-inch infotainment system.
Select – Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are big highlights for the Select trim. Leather upholstery, and dual-zone automatic climate control are also standard.
Premium – As the top trim, the Premium gets a heads-up display, upgraded leather upholstery, a power liftgate, and adaptive headlights.
Preferred – Mazda provides some real luxury at this level with heated seats, a 12-speaker Bose premium audio system, and ambient lighting.
For 2022, Mazda has doubled the trim levels but really it’s just that the top four are near copies of the bottom four but with the new turbocharged engine.
Select – As the base trim, this CX-30 comes with dual-zone automatic climate control, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, 18-inch wheels, and simulated leather upholstery.
Preferred – This trim adds a few desirable features like a sunroof, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat.
Carbon Edition – As a new edition for 2022, this trim gets special gray paint, red leather seats, heated side mirrors, and 18-inch wheels.
Premium – Consider this the top trim if you want the base four cylinder. It gets satellite radio, a heads-up display, a 12-speaker Bose sound system, paddle shifters, leather upholstery, roof rails, adaptive headlights, and a power liftgate.
2.5 Turbo – Those who want the punchier engine can get it with this trim that’s equipped like the 2022 Mazda CX-30 Preferred trim. In addition to those features it also gets roof rails, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
2.5 Turbo Premium – At this trim level, the CX-30 is a combination of the Premium trim with the turbocharged engine.
2.5 Turbo Premium Plus – This trim is only available with the turbo motor and it gets special safety features including a surround-view camera system, parking sensors, rear cross-traffic alert, and traffic jam assist.
The Verdict
2022 Mazda CX-30 – mazdausa.com | Shop Mazda CX-30 on Carsforsale.com
We can’t really think of a good reason to go get a used Mazda CX-30 right now. Pricing is still near or above what you’ll pay for a brand new model. In addition to that clear advantage, the new CX-30 also benefits from AWD, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as well as other features. Don’t forget too that you’ll get a full warranty with a new CX-30.
