Likes
- Basically a lifted Mazda3, that will tick many people’s boxes.
- Excellent design inside and out.
- Great range and very well equipped.
- Retains value on the used market.
Used Mazda CX-30 review
2019 - 2022
Dislikes
- Reliability not as bulletproof as you’d expect from Mazda.
- Brake pedal can be feel very off-putting.
- Can ask a premium for what it is.
- Is it a car the world needed at all?
Stuff you should know
- If you find yourself indecisive when shopping for a car—maybe the Mazda CX-3 feels too small, but the CX-5 seems too large, and you’d like something akin to a Mazda 3 but with the popular SUV design—then the Mazda CX-30 could be the ideal middle ground for you. It offers a compact SUV experience, bridging the gap between the smaller and larger Mazda models, blending practicality with SUV styling.
- However, some may argue that this space didn’t necessarily need filling, but Mazda has made sure to cover all bases. Despite its relatively recent introduction in 2019, the CX-30 is available in an impressive variety of configurations. There are four main trim levels—Pure, Evolve, Touring, and Astina—and Mazda has even introduced several special editions to cater to diverse buyer preferences.
- What adds to the complexity is the optional Vision Technology Package, which further alters the features and specifications in certain variants. This can make choosing the right model feel confusing, as the package modifies what comes standard or optional in each variant.
- Each trim level is also defined by the engine under the hood. The G20 badge indicates the 2.0-litre engine, available with either a manual or automatic transmission depending on the year. The G25, on the other hand, refers to the 2.5-litre engine, which is paired exclusively with an automatic transmission and can be equipped with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, depending on the buyer’s needs.
- Though there are hybrid options available, their presence in Australia has been minimal, with very few sold nationwide. The lack of interest is likely why Mazda recently discontinued the hybrid versions locally.
- Internationally, there are additional options like a turbo diesel engine and, most notably, a 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine. Unfortunately for Australian buyers, this powerful variant is not yet available in the local market, though many enthusiasts are eager for its arrival.
- Surprisingly for a brand like Mazda, which typically has a strong reputation for reliability, the CX-30 has seen its fair share of common issues and complaints. While it remains a popular choice, potential buyers should be aware of some recurring problems, read on to find out more.
What goes wrong
Exterior:
- Many owners have raised concerns about the paint quality on the Mazda CX-30, noting that it chips easily. Polishing the paint can lead to unsightly swirl marks, and some have even reported sections where the paint has started peeling. This issue is more prominent on darker colors like the popular Soul Red, where imperfections are more visible. Even with the application of ceramic coatings, which are marketed as providing extra protection, many owners report that the paint issues persist. For those looking for long-lasting protection, paint protection film (PPF) is a more reliable option, although it comes at an additional cost. Over time, this investment could save you from needing a full respray.
- Another common complaint is about the plastic cladding and trim on the exterior, which tends to fade and turn light grey. While quality care products can restore these parts, many are concerned about how the vehicle will age, especially after several years of exposure to the elements.
- Headlight issues are another reported problem, with some owners—particularly in North America—experiencing rattling sounds. Mazda even issued a service bulletin for this, and in some cases, dealerships have replaced the headlights. However, the motors behind the headlights are also prone to failure, which can cause buzzing noises. Additionally, some owners have experienced malfunctions with the keyless entry system, which sometimes fails to work altogether.
- On the topic of electrical problems, there are several reports about side mirrors. In some cases, the mirrors become unresponsive and require a restart of the vehicle to regain functionality. Folding mirrors can also fail after washing the car, as the grease on the motor gears tends to wash away, leaving the mirrors unable to fold or stay firm.
- Suspension issues seem to be a major concern with the CX-30 as well. Many owners have complained about knocking and creaking noises when going over speed bumps or angled driveways. Even worse, shock absorber failures have been reported frequently. Some owners, after replacing their shocks with OEM parts, have had the replacements fail within a short time. This has led to frustration, as some Mazda dealerships have claimed these issues fall within acceptable parameters, refusing to address the problems. Many owners have turned to consumer affairs to seek a resolution, feeling neglected by Mazda’s customer service.
Interior:
- Unlike Mazda’s usual reputation for solid interiors, the CX-30 has been plagued with complaints of rattles. These noises seem to come from various parts of the cabin, including the A and B pillars, the sunglasses holder, the dashboard, and the door panels. Some owners have had to make repeated trips to the dealership to address these
Exterior:
- Many owners have raised concerns about the paint quality on the Mazda CX-30, noting that it chips easily. Polishing the paint can lead to unsightly swirl marks, and some have even reported sections where the paint has started peeling. This issue is more prominent on darker colors like the popular Soul Red, where imperfections are more visible. Even with the application of ceramic coatings, which are marketed as providing extra protection, many owners report that the paint issues persist. For those looking for long-lasting protection, paint protection film (PPF) is a more reliable option, although it comes at an additional cost. Over time, this investment could save you from needing a full respray.
- Another common complaint is about the plastic cladding and trim on the exterior, which tends to fade and turn light grey. While quality care products can restore these parts, many are concerned about how the vehicle will age, especially after several years of exposure to the elements.
- Headlight issues are another reported problem, with some owners—particularly in North America—experiencing rattling sounds. Mazda even issued a service bulletin for this, and in some cases, dealerships have replaced the headlights. However, the motors behind the headlights are also prone to failure, which can cause buzzing noises. Additionally, some owners have experienced malfunctions with the keyless entry system, which sometimes fails to work altogether.
- On the topic of electrical problems, there are several reports about side mirrors. In some cases, the mirrors become unresponsive and require a restart of the vehicle to regain functionality. Folding mirrors can also fail after washing the car, as the grease on the motor gears tends to wash away, leaving the mirrors unable to fold or stay firm.
- Suspension issues seem to be a major concern with the CX-30 as well. Many owners have complained about knocking and creaking noises when going over speed bumps or angled driveways. Even worse, shock absorber failures have been reported frequently. Some owners, after replacing their shocks with OEM parts, have had the replacements fail within a short time. This has led to frustration, as some Mazda dealerships have claimed these issues fall within acceptable parameters, refusing to address the problems. Many owners have turned to consumer affairs to seek a resolution, feeling neglected by Mazda’s customer service.
Interior:
- Unlike Mazda’s usual reputation for solid interiors, the CX-30 has been plagued with complaints of rattles. These noises seem to come from various parts of the cabin, including the A and B pillars, the sunglasses holder, the dashboard, and the door panels. Some owners have had to make repeated trips to the dealership to address these issues, with little success. The intensity of the rattles can also vary depending on the outside temperature, which only adds to the frustration.
- Another interior issue is the sun visors. In some cases, the visors have melted under the sun, causing the fabric to come loose and preventing them from staying in place. While this is usually fixed under warranty, owners are worried about what will happen after the warranty expires.
- Electrical problems extend to the infotainment system as well, with some owners reporting that the system disconnects when driving over bumps. In addition, North American CX-30 models have been known to suffer from faulty buttons and other electrical glitches.
- A practical complaint is the absence of a 12V outlet at the front of the cabin, making it difficult to install accessories like dash cams. Leather upholstery in higher-spec models has also drawn criticism for wearing prematurely, with some owners noting that the black color seems to be more of a coating that wears off easily.
- Gloss black plastic accents, while visually appealing when new, are another point of contention. These parts, located in high-traffic areas, scratch easily—even wiping off dust can cause damage. As a result, many owners are considering applying protective film or replacing these parts altogether.
Mechanically:
- All petrol variants of the Mazda CX-30 share some common mechanical issues.
- While the timing chains, problematic in previous Mazda models, seem to be reliable in this generation, oil dilution has become a concern. This issue can lead to engine damage over time if not addressed, and while there have been recalls and software updates aimed at correcting it, the problem persists.
- Oil dilution can result in premature engine failure, and high oil consumption is another related issue that some owners have encountered.
- Carbon build-up in the engine is also becoming a more frequent concern, though it can be remedied relatively easily.
- High-pressure fuel pump failures are another growing problem, while turbo failure, though less common, has been reported.
- Additionally, some vehicles have had thermostat issues, with the thermostat either getting stuck open—causing the engine to run too cold—or closed, leading to overheating and, in rare cases, cracked cylinder heads.
- While diesel options are not available in Australia, Mazda’s track record with diesel engines has been far from stellar, with reliability concerns dating back decades.
- On a positive note, the transmission in the CX-30 has generally been reliable and performs on par with other vehicles in its class.
Driving and Ownership:
- Owners should pay attention to clunking or creaking sounds when driving over speed bumps or up angled driveways, as this could indicate suspension problems. These issues, along with a firm ride quality, have led to some dissatisfaction. The CX-30’s ride stiffness is a byproduct of raising a hatchback’s center of gravity while fitting it with budget-conscious suspension components, which many owners feel compromise comfort.
- Another issue with front-wheel-drive variants is axle tramp, where the front wheels shudder and hop when accelerating aggressively. While the CX-30 isn’t designed as a performance vehicle, Mazda’s “Zoom-Zoom” branding leads some to expect better handling, leaving these drivers disappointed.
- On the other hand, some owners have complained about the brakes, describing them as having a lack of feel and prone to squealing. Even after upgrading brake components, one owner expressed frustration, ultimately selling the vehicle due to the brake system’s underwhelming performance.
- Visibility is another area where some drivers feel the CX-30 falls short. The combination of a high beltline and thick pillars can make it difficult to judge the vehicle’s dimensions, particularly in tight traffic situations.
Exterior:
- Many owners have raised concerns about the paint quality on the Mazda CX-30, noting that it chips easily. Polishing the paint can lead to unsightly swirl marks, and some have even reported sections where the paint has started peeling. This issue is more prominent on darker colors like the popular Soul Red, where imperfections are more visible. Even with the application of ceramic coatings, which are marketed as providing extra protection, many owners report that the paint issues persist. For those looking for long-lasting protection, paint protection film (PPF) is a more reliable option, although it comes at an additional cost. Over time, this investment could save you from needing a full respray.
- Another common complaint is about the plastic cladding and trim on the exterior, which tends to fade and turn light grey. While quality care products can restore these parts, many are concerned about how the vehicle will age, especially after several years of exposure to the elements.
- Headlight issues are another reported problem, with some owners—particularly in North America—experiencing rattling sounds. Mazda even issued a service bulletin for this, and in some cases, dealerships have replaced the headlights. However, the motors behind the headlights are also prone to failure, which can cause buzzing noises. Additionally, some owners have experienced malfunctions with the keyless entry system, which sometimes fails to work altogether.
- On the topic of electrical problems, there are several reports about side mirrors. In some cases, the mirrors become unresponsive and require a restart of the vehicle to regain functionality. Folding mirrors can also fail after washing the car, as the grease on the motor gears tends to wash away, leaving the mirrors unable to fold or stay firm.
- Suspension issues seem to be a major concern with the CX-30 as well. Many owners have complained about knocking and creaking noises when going over speed bumps or angled driveways. Even worse, shock absorber failures have been reported frequently. Some owners, after replacing their shocks with OEM parts, have had the replacements fail within a short time. This has led to frustration, as some Mazda dealerships have claimed these issues fall within acceptable parameters, refusing to address the problems. Many owners have turned to consumer affairs to seek a resolution, feeling neglected by Mazda’s customer service.
Interior:
- Unlike Mazda’s usual reputation for solid interiors, the CX-30 has been plagued with complaints of rattles. These noises seem to come from various parts of the cabin, including the A and B pillars, the sunglasses holder, the dashboard, and the door panels. Some owners have had to make repeated trips to the dealership to address these issues, with little success. The intensity of the rattles can also vary depending on the outside temperature, which only adds to the frustration.
- Another interior issue is the sun visors. In some cases, the visors have melted under the sun, causing the fabric to come loose and preventing them from staying in place. While this is usually fixed under warranty, owners are worried about what will happen after the warranty expires.
- Electrical problems extend to the infotainment system as well, with some owners reporting that the system disconnects when driving over bumps. In addition, North American CX-30 models have been known to suffer from faulty buttons and other electrical glitches.
- A practical complaint is the absence of a 12V outlet at the front of the cabin, making it difficult to install accessories like dash cams. Leather upholstery in higher-spec models has also drawn criticism for wearing prematurely, with some owners noting that the black color seems to be more of a coating that wears off easily.
- Gloss black plastic accents, while visually appealing when new, are another point of contention. These parts, located in high-traffic areas, scratch easily—even wiping off dust can cause damage. As a result, many owners are considering applying protective film or replacing these parts altogether.
Mechanically:
- All petrol variants of the Mazda CX-30 share some common mechanical issues.
- While the timing chains, problematic in previous Mazda models, seem to be reliable in this generation, oil dilution has become a concern. This issue can lead to engine damage over time if not addressed, and while there have been recalls and software updates aimed at correcting it, the problem persists.
- Oil dilution can result in premature engine failure, and high oil consumption is another related issue that some owners have encountered.
- Carbon build-up in the engine is also becoming a more frequent concern, though it can be remedied relatively easily.
- High-pressure fuel pump failures are another growing problem, while turbo failure, though less common, has been reported.
- Additionally, some vehicles have had thermostat issues, with the thermostat either getting stuck open—causing the engine to run too cold—or closed, leading to overheating and, in rare cases, cracked cylinder heads.
- While diesel options are not available in Australia, Mazda’s track record with diesel engines has been far from stellar, with reliability concerns dating back decades.
- On a positive note, the transmission in the CX-30 has generally been reliable and performs on par with other vehicles in its class.
Driving and Ownership:
- Owners should pay attention to clunking or creaking sounds when driving over speed bumps or up angled driveways, as this could indicate suspension problems. These issues, along with a firm ride quality, have led to some dissatisfaction. The CX-30’s ride stiffness is a byproduct of raising a hatchback’s center of gravity while fitting it with budget-conscious suspension components, which many owners feel compromise comfort.
- Another issue with front-wheel-drive variants is axle tramp, where the front wheels shudder and hop when accelerating aggressively. While the CX-30 isn’t designed as a performance vehicle, Mazda’s “Zoom-Zoom” branding leads some to expect better handling, leaving these drivers disappointed.
- On the other hand, some owners have complained about the brakes, describing them as having a lack of feel and prone to squealing. Even after upgrading brake components, one owner expressed frustration, ultimately selling the vehicle due to the brake system’s underwhelming performance.
- Visibility is another area where some drivers feel the CX-30 falls short. The combination of a high beltline and thick pillars can make it difficult to judge the vehicle’s dimensions, particularly in tight traffic situations.
Should you buy it?
After considering all the issues, it seems that the Mazda CX-30 might not fully reflect Mazda’s typically excellent build quality or the brand’s reputation for longevity. While Mazda is known for crafting reliable, long-lasting vehicles, the CX-30 has presented some concerns that potential buyers should be aware of before making a decision.
So, would we recommend buying a used CX-30? The answer is, well, maybe not—at least not without careful consideration. If a Mazda3 is your ideal vehicle, but you find yourself needing features like all-wheel drive or a higher ride height, and you’ve come across a meticulously maintained CX-30 that has had all of the common issues addressed, then it might be a safe bet. In that case, you could join the thousands of CX-30 owners who love their cars and have never experienced any significant problems.
However, the flip side is that there are also thousands of owners who have faced numerous issues with their CX-30s. The question then becomes: do you want to take the risk of being one of them? With so many reports of recurring issues—from suspension problems to electrical glitches—it’s something to seriously weigh before purchasing.
The reality is, most buyers likely don’t need the raised ride height or the all-wheel drive capability offered by the CX-30. So, if you’re drawn to the SUV purely because it’s trendy or you think it might offer more practicality, it’s worth reconsidering. The Mazda3 offers nearly the same features, with a lower risk
After considering all the issues, it seems that the Mazda CX-30 might not fully reflect Mazda’s typically excellent build quality or the brand’s reputation for longevity. While Mazda is known for crafting reliable, long-lasting vehicles, the CX-30 has presented some concerns that potential buyers should be aware of before making a decision.
So, would we recommend buying a used CX-30? The answer is, well, maybe not—at least not without careful consideration. If a Mazda3 is your ideal vehicle, but you find yourself needing features like all-wheel drive or a higher ride height, and you’ve come across a meticulously maintained CX-30 that has had all of the common issues addressed, then it might be a safe bet. In that case, you could join the thousands of CX-30 owners who love their cars and have never experienced any significant problems.
However, the flip side is that there are also thousands of owners who have faced numerous issues with their CX-30s. The question then becomes: do you want to take the risk of being one of them? With so many reports of recurring issues—from suspension problems to electrical glitches—it’s something to seriously weigh before purchasing.
The reality is, most buyers likely don’t need the raised ride height or the all-wheel drive capability offered by the CX-30. So, if you’re drawn to the SUV purely because it’s trendy or you think it might offer more practicality, it’s worth reconsidering. The Mazda3 offers nearly the same features, with a lower risk of the issues plaguing the CX-30. In many cases, the Mazda3 is simply a better choice for drivers who don’t specifically require the attributes of an SUV.
Should you buy it?
After considering all the issues, it seems that the Mazda CX-30 might not fully reflect Mazda’s typically excellent build quality or the brand’s reputation for longevity. While Mazda is known for crafting reliable, long-lasting vehicles, the CX-30 has presented some concerns that potential buyers should be aware of before making a decision.
So, would we recommend buying a used CX-30? The answer is, well, maybe not—at least not without careful consideration. If a Mazda3 is your ideal vehicle, but you find yourself needing features like all-wheel drive or a higher ride height, and you’ve come across a meticulously maintained CX-30 that has had all of the common issues addressed, then it might be a safe bet. In that case, you could join the thousands of CX-30 owners who love their cars and have never experienced any significant problems.
However, the flip side is that there are also thousands of owners who have faced numerous issues with their CX-30s. The question then becomes: do you want to take the risk of being one of them? With so many reports of recurring issues—from suspension problems to electrical glitches—it’s something to seriously weigh before purchasing.
The reality is, most buyers likely don’t need the raised ride height or the all-wheel drive capability offered by the CX-30. So, if you’re drawn to the SUV purely because it’s trendy or you think it might offer more practicality, it’s worth reconsidering. The Mazda3 offers nearly the same features, with a lower risk of the issues plaguing the CX-30. In many cases, the Mazda3 is simply a better choice for drivers who don’t specifically require the attributes of an SUV.
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Models, pricing & features
Tech specs
Body Styles
- 5 door Wagon
Engine Specs
- 2.0 litre, 4-cylinder petrol, 114kW / 200Nm (G20 Pure 2019 – 2022, G20 Evolve 2019 – 2022, G20 Touring 2019 – 2022, G20 Astina 2019 – 2022, G20e Evolve M Hybrid 2021 – 2022, G20 Touring SP 2021 – 2022)
- 2.5 litre, 4-cylinder petrol, 139kW / 252Nm (G25 Astina 2019 – 2022, G25 Touring 2019 – 2022, 100th Anniversary 2020, G25 Touring SP 2021 – 2022)
- 2.0 litre, 4-cylinder supercharged petrol, 132kW / 224Nm (X20 Astina 2020 – 2022)
Transmission
- 6-speed Sports Automatic (G20 Pure, G20 Evolve, G20 Touring, G20 Astina, G25 Astina, G25 Touring, 100th Anniversary, X20 Astina, G20e Evolve M Hybrid, G20 Touring SP, G25 Touring SP)
- 6-speed Manual (G20 Pure)
Fuel Consumption
- 5.6 – 8.0 / 100km (G20 Pure, G20 Evolve, G20 Touring, G20 Astina, G20 Touring SP)
- 5.7 – 8.7 / 100km (G25 Astina, G25 Touring, G25 Touring SP)
- 5.5 – 8.5 / 100km (100th Anniversary)
- 5.4 – 7.0 / 100km (X20 Astina)
- 5.6 – 7.6 / 100km (G20e Evolve M Hybrid)
Length
- 4395mm (All Models)
Width
- 1795mm (All Models)
Height
- 1540mm (All Models)
Wheelbase
- 2655mm (All Models)
Kerb Weight
- Unknown kg – 1594kg (All Models)
Towing
- 600kg (unbraked) – 1200kg (braked) (All Models)
Ancap Ratings
- 5 stars, tested 2019 (All Models)
Body Styles
- 5 door Wagon
Engine Specs
- 2.0 litre, 4-cylinder petrol, 114kW / 200Nm (G20 Pure 2019 – 2022, G20 Evolve 2019 – 2022, G20 Touring 2019 – 2022, G20 Astina 2019 – 2022, G20e Evolve M Hybrid 2021 – 2022, G20 Touring SP 2021 – 2022)
- 2.5 litre, 4-cylinder petrol, 139kW / 252Nm (G25 Astina 2019 – 2022, G25 Touring 2019 – 2022, 100th Anniversary 2020, G25 Touring SP 2021 – 2022)
- 2.0 litre, 4-cylinder supercharged petrol, 132kW / 224Nm (X20 Astina 2020 – 2022)
Transmission
- 6-speed Sports Automatic (G20 Pure, G20 Evolve, G20 Touring, G20 Astina, G25 Astina, G25 Touring, 100th Anniversary, X20 Astina, G20e Evolve M Hybrid, G20 Touring SP, G25 Touring SP)
- 6-speed Manual (G20 Pure)
Fuel Consumption
- 5.6 – 8.0 / 100km (G20 Pure, G20 Evolve, G20 Touring, G20 Astina, G20 Touring SP)
- 5.7 – 8.7 / 100km (G25 Astina, G25 Touring, G25 Touring SP)
- 5.5 – 8.5 / 100km (100th Anniversary)
- 5.4 – 7.0 / 100km (X20 Astina)
- 5.6 – 7.6 / 100km (G20e Evolve M Hybrid)
Length
- 4395mm (All Models)
Width
- 1795mm (All Models)
Height
- 1540mm (All Models)
Wheelbase
- 2655mm (All Models)
Kerb Weight
- Unknown kg – 1594kg (All Models)
Towing
- 600kg (unbraked) – 1200kg (braked) (All Models)
Ancap Ratings
- 5 stars, tested 2019 (All Models)
Body Styles
- 5 door Wagon
Engine Specs
- 2.0 litre, 4-cylinder petrol, 114kW / 200Nm (G20 Pure 2019 – 2022, G20 Evolve 2019 – 2022, G20 Touring 2019 – 2022, G20 Astina 2019 – 2022, G20e Evolve M Hybrid 2021 – 2022, G20 Touring SP 2021 – 2022)
- 2.5 litre, 4-cylinder petrol, 139kW / 252Nm (G25 Astina 2019 – 2022, G25 Touring 2019 – 2022, 100th Anniversary 2020, G25 Touring SP 2021 – 2022)
- 2.0 litre, 4-cylinder supercharged petrol, 132kW / 224Nm (X20 Astina 2020 – 2022)
Transmission
- 6-speed Sports Automatic (G20 Pure, G20 Evolve, G20 Touring, G20 Astina, G25 Astina, G25 Touring, 100th Anniversary, X20 Astina, G20e Evolve M Hybrid, G20 Touring SP, G25 Touring SP)
- 6-speed Manual (G20 Pure)
Fuel Consumption
- 5.6 – 8.0 / 100km (G20 Pure, G20 Evolve, G20 Touring, G20 Astina, G20 Touring SP)
- 5.7 – 8.7 / 100km (G25 Astina, G25 Touring, G25 Touring SP)
- 5.5 – 8.5 / 100km (100th Anniversary)
- 5.4 – 7.0 / 100km (X20 Astina)
- 5.6 – 7.6 / 100km (G20e Evolve M Hybrid)
Length
- 4395mm (All Models)
Width
- 1795mm (All Models)
Height
- 1540mm (All Models)
Wheelbase
- 2655mm (All Models)
Kerb Weight
- Unknown kg – 1594kg (All Models)
Towing
- 600kg (unbraked) – 1200kg (braked) (All Models)
Ancap Ratings
- 5 stars, tested 2019 (All Models)
Warranty & servicing
Warranty
- 5 years / unlimited km (All Models)
Servicing
- 10,000 km / 12 months (All Models)
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Disclaimer
Please note that pricing information is subject to fluctuations in the automotive market.
Information correct as of Aug 01, 2024.
The advice provided on this website is general advice only. It has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this advice, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.
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