Thinking of buying a Mazda CX-50 or CX-30? Learn about their key differences in exterior design, interior space, performance, safety features, and pricing to make the right choice for you.
Exterior Design and Features
The exterior design of the CX-30 and CX-50 is where the similarities between these two SUVs start to diverge. While both models boast a sleek, modern aesthetic, there are some notable differences that set them apart. Let’s dive in and explore the nitty-gritty details that make each model unique.
Length, Width, and Height Comparison
When it comes to overall dimensions, the CX-50 is slightly larger than the CX-30. The CX-50 measures 183.1 inches in length, 73.2 inches in width, and 65.3 inches in height. In contrast, the CX-30 comes in at 173.0 inches in length, 70.7 inches in width, and 61.7 inches in height. While these differences may seem minor, they can have a significant impact on the overall driving experience and parking maneuverability.
Wheelbase and Ground Clearance Measurements
Another key area where the CX-30 and CX-50 differ is in their wheelbase and ground clearance measurements. The CX-50 boasts a slightly longer wheelbase at 110.8 inches, compared to the CX-30’s 104.4 inches. This can affect the overall stability and handling of the vehicle, particularly when cornering or navigating rough terrain. When it comes to ground clearance, the CX-50 sits slightly higher at 7.5 inches, while the CX-30 comes in at 6.7 inches. This can be an important consideration for drivers who frequently encounter rough roads or inclement weather.
LED Headlights and Taillights Design
One area where both models shine is in their LED headlights and taillights design. The CX-30 features a sleek, curved LED strip that runs along the front grille, giving the vehicle a futuristic appearance. The CX-50 takes a slightly more aggressive approach, with a more angular LED design that adds to its sporty vibe. Around back, both models feature LED taillights that add a touch of sophistication to their overall design. But which one do you prefer? Do you like the sleek, understated approach of the CX-30, or the bold, attention-grabbing design of the CX-50?
Interior Space and Comfort
When it comes to interior space and comfort, the CX-30 and CX-50 are designed to provide a premium driving experience. But how do they compare in terms of seating capacity, legroom, cargo space, and infotainment features?
Seating Capacity and Legroom Comparison
Both the CX-30 and CX-50 offer spacious interiors with ample room for passengers. The CX-30 seats up to five passengers, with 38.3 inches of rear legroom, making it an ideal choice for small families or road trips with friends. The CX-50, on the other hand, offers slightly more rear legroom at 39.6 inches, making it a great option for taller passengers or those who prefer a bit more stretch-out room. However, it’s worth noting that the CX-50’s rear seats are more reclined, providing a more relaxed seating position.
Cargo Capacity and Folding Rear Seats
When it comes to cargo space, both vehicles offer more than enough room for daily errands, weekend getaways, or family road trips. The CX-30 boasts 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to 45.2 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. The CX-50 offers slightly more cargo space, with 25.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. Both vehicles feature 60/40 split-folding rear seats, allowing for easy reconfiguration to accommodate passengers and cargo.
Infotainment System and Display Screen Size
Staying connected and entertained on the go is a breeze with the CX-30 and CX-50’s advanced infotainment systems. Both vehicles feature an 8.8-inch display screen, providing vibrant graphics and crystal-clear sound. The systems come equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing seamless connectivity to your smartphone. Additionally, both vehicles offer a range of premium audio options, including a Bose 12-speaker system, to enhance your driving experience. With intuitive controls and voice command capability, you’ll be able to navigate, stream, and stay connected with ease.
Performance and Handling
When it comes to getting from point A to point B, the Mazda CX-30 and CX-50 are designed to deliver an exceptional driving experience. But which one reigns supreme in the performance and handling department?
Engine Options and Horsepower Comparison
The Mazda CX-30 and CX-50 offer a range of engine options to cater to different driving styles and preferences. The CX-30 comes with two engine choices: a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder that produces 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder that churns out 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. The CX-50, on the other hand, offers three engine options: a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder that produces 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, a 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder that produces 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder that pumps out a whopping 320 horsepower and 340 lb-ft of torque.
But what does all this power mean in real-world driving scenarios? Simply put, the CX-50’s more potent engine options make it the better choice for those who crave speed and acceleration. However, the CX-30’s more efficient engine choices make it a more attractive option for those who prioritize fuel economy.
Transmission Types and Drive Modes
Both the CX-30 and CX-50 offer a range of transmission options to complement their engine choices. The CX-30 comes with a six-speed automatic transmission, while the CX-50 offers a six-speed automatic transmission as well as an eight-speed automatic transmission on higher trims. Additionally, both vehicles feature drive mode select technology, which allows drivers to choose from different drive modes such as sport, normal, and eco to tailor their driving experience to their preferences.
But here’s the million-dollar question: how do these transmission options impact the driving experience? In short, the CX-50’s more advanced transmission technology provides smoother gear shifts and more precise control, making it the better choice for those who enjoy spirited driving. On the other hand, the CX-30’s more budget-friendly transmission options make it a more attractive option for those on a tighter budget.
Suspension and Steering System Differences
When it comes to handling and ride quality, the CX-30 and CX-50 take different approaches. The CX-30 features a more comfort-oriented suspension system, which is designed to absorb bumps and potholes for a smoother ride. The CX-50, on the other hand, features a more sport-tuned suspension system that provides better cornering and handling capabilities.
But what about steering? Both vehicles feature electric power-assisted steering systems, but the CX-50’s system is more advanced, providing more precise and responsive steering feedback. This makes the CX-50 the better choice for drivers who enjoy tackling twisty roads and corners. However, the CX-30’s more comfort-oriented steering system makes it a better option for those who prioritize ease of use and low-speed maneuverability.
Safety Features and Technology
When it comes to safety, Mazda takes a holistic approach, incorporating a combination of advanced features, intelligent design, and rigorous testing to ensure that every drive is a safe one. But what exactly sets the CX-30 and CX-50 apart from their competitors?
Airbag Count and Advanced Safety Features
Mazda’s commitment to safety is evident in the sheer number of airbags equipped in both the CX-30 and CX-50. A total of 8 airbags are strategically placed throughout the vehicle, including dual front, front side, and side curtain airbags, as well as knee airbags for both driver and passenger. But it’s not just about quantity – the quality of these airbags is also unmatched. Mazda’s advanced airbag system is designed to deploy in a sequence that maximizes protection for occupants, reducing the risk of injury in the event of a collision.
But airbags are just the beginning. Both the CX-30 and CX-50 also boast a range of advanced safety features, including a Whiplash-reducing Front Seat Structure, which helps to minimize the impact of a collision on the driver and passenger. Additionally, the vehicles’ strong, rigid bodies are designed to absorb and distribute the forces of a crash, further reducing the risk of injury or damage.
Driver Assistance Systems and Autonomous Tech
Mazda’s i-Activsense suite of driver assistance systems is designed to provide an added layer of protection and peace of mind on the road. Features like Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, and Automatic Emergency Braking work together to help prevent accidents, or mitigate their severity if one were to occur. But it’s not just about reacting to potential hazards – Mazda’s Autonomous Tech also takes a proactive approach, using advanced sensors and cameras to detect and respond to the vehicle’s surroundings.
Imagine having a constant, vigilant co-pilot, alert to potential dangers and ready to intervene at a moment’s notice. That’s the idea behind Mazda’s driver assistance systems, which are designed to work in harmony with the driver, rather than replacing them.
Crash Test Ratings and Safety Awards
So how do the CX-30 and CX-50 measure up in terms of safety ratings? The answer is impressive. Both vehicles have earned top marks from reputable organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The CX-30 has been named a 2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick+, while the CX-50 has received a perfect 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.
But what does this mean in practical terms? Simply put, it means that the CX-30 and CX-50 have been rigorously tested and have demonstrated a commitment to safety that is unmatched in their class. It’s a testament to Mazda’s dedication to protecting its drivers and passengers, and a promise that you can drive with confidence.
Fuel Economy and Emissions
Fuel economy is a crucial aspect to consider when buying a car, as it directly affects your wallet and the environment. The good news is that the CX-30 and CX-50 are designed to provide an optimal balance between performance and fuel efficiency. Let’s dive into the numbers and explore how these vehicles compare.
MPG Comparison for City, Highway, and Combined
The CX-30 boasts an impressive EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 27 MPG in the city, 33 MPG on the highway, and 29 MPG combined for the front-wheel drive (FWD) model. The all-wheel drive (AWD) variant slightly reduces these figures to 26 MPG city, 31 MPG highway, and 28 MPG combined. In contrast, the CX-50 FWD model achieves an estimated 25 MPG city, 31 MPG highway, and 27 MPG combined, while the AWD model sees a slight drop to 24 MPG city, 30 MPG highway, and 26 MPG combined.
But what do these numbers mean in real-world driving scenarios? To put it into perspective, assume you drive 15,000 miles per year, which is the average annual mileage for most Americans. With the CX-30’s estimated fuel economy, you could save around $300 to $400 per year on fuel costs compared to the CX-50, depending on the drive type and conditions.
Emissions Standards and Fuel Type Options
Both the CX-30 and CX-50 are designed to meet stringent emissions standards, ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment for everyone. The CX-30 is available with two fuel-efficient engine options: a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine and a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine. The CX-50, on the other hand, features a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine and a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine. All engine options are paired with a fuel-efficient transmission system to minimize energy loss and maximize fuel economy.
Estimated Fuel Costs and Savings
So, how much can you expect to save on fuel costs with the CX-30 and CX-50? Based on the EPA’s fuel economy estimates, we’ve calculated the estimated fuel costs for each model. Over a five-year period, the CX-30 FWD model could save you around $1,500 to $2,000 in fuel costs compared to the CX-50 FWD model, assuming an average fuel price of $2.75 per gallon. The AWD models follow a similar pattern, with the CX-30 AWD model potentially saving you around $1,200 to $1,700 in fuel costs over the same period.
Trim Levels and Pricing
When it comes to getting behind the wheel of a new ride, one of the most critical factors to consider is the trim level and pricing. After all, you want to make sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck, without sacrificing on features and functionality. So, let’s dive into the trim options and pricing for the CX-30 and CX-50, and see which one comes out on top.
CX-30 Trim Options and Features
The CX-30 is available in five trim levels: Base, Select, Preferred, Premium, and Turbo. Each trim level builds upon the last, adding more features and amenities as you move up the range. The Base model starts at an affordable $22,000, with features like a 8.8-inch infotainment screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a suite of standard safety features. The Select trim adds 18-inch alloy wheels, a power driver’s seat, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, starting at $24,000. The Preferred trim takes things up a notch with features like heated seats, a power moonroof, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system, starting at $26,500. The Premium trim adds even more luxury with like a heated steering wheel, a 360-degree camera system, and a heads-up display, starting at $29,000. Finally, the Turbo trim tops out the range with a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, adaptive cruise control, and a panoramic moonroof, starting at $32,000.
CX-50 Trim Options and Features
The CX-50, on the other hand, is available in seven trim levels: Base, Select, Preferred, Premium, Premium Plus, Turbo, and Turbo Premium Plus. Similar to the CX-30, each trim level adds more features and amenities as you move up the range. The Base model starts at $26,000, with features like a larger 10.25-inch infotainment screen, a power liftgate, and a suite of standard safety features. The Select trim adds 18-inch alloy wheels, a power driver’s seat, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, starting at $28,000. The Preferred trim takes things up a notch with features like heated seats, a power moonroof, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system, starting at $31,000. The Premium trim adds even more luxury with features like a heated steering wheel, a 360-degree camera system, and a heads-up display, starting at $34,000. The Premium Plus trim adds features like a panoramic moonroof, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 360-degree camera system, starting at $37,000. The Turbo trim ups the ante with a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, adaptive cruise control, and a heads-up display, starting at $40,000. Finally, the Turbo Premium Plus trim tops out the range with features like a panoramic moonroof, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 360-degree camera system, starting at $43,000.
Price Comparison and Value Analysis
So, which trim level and pricing strategy comes out on top? When comparing the two, it’s clear that the CX-30 is the more affordable option, with a lower starting price point and more affordable trim levels throughout the range. However, the CX-50 offers more premium features and amenities, particularly in the higher trim levels. If you’re looking for a more luxurious driving experience, the CX-50 may be the better choice. However, if you’re on a tighter budget and still want a feature-packed ride, the CX-30 is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual needs and priorities.