2020 Mazda CX-30 Preferred

The CX-30 is Mazda's subcompact crossover, sized between the CX-3 and CX-5 and aimed at the Honda HR-V and Toyota C-HR. It drives with the same eager, connected feel as the Mazda3, making it one of the more engaging small crossovers to steer. The cabin is a cut above the class, with high-quality materials and a clean, driver-focused layout that feels more upscale than its price suggests. Rear seat space is snug for adults, and cargo capacity is modest, so it's best for singles or couples rather than families. The Preferred sits between the Select and Premium trims, adding a power-adjustable driver's seat and blind-spot monitoring without the Premium's Bose audio or leather. Its 2.5L I4 makes 186 horsepower and pairs with the six-speed automatic and all-wheel drive, which gives it confident traction in rain or light snow and returns 26 mpg combined. The Preferred can be optioned with the Premium Package, which adds a sunroof and the 12-speaker Bose system, but even without it the cabin feels upscale.