2025 Mazda CX-30 GT SP AWD Review: Worth It?

Let's be honest, the small SUV market in Australia is booming. Everywhere you look, there's another compact crossover vying for your attention. Amidst this crowded field, the Mazda CX-30 has always stood out, promising a dash of premium flair and the "zoom-zoom" driving experience Mazda is known for.

Are you interested in the Mazda CX-30?

We got our hands on the 2025 CX-30 GT SP AWD, the second-from-the-top trim, to see if it lives up to the hype. Does it deliver on its promise of style and substance, or is it just another pretty face in a sea of small SUVs?

Exterior Design: Sleek or Just a Hatchback on Stilts?

First impressions? The CX-30 is definitely a looker. It's got a sleek, almost coupe-like profile, setting it apart from the more boxy SUVs in its class. However, that sleekness comes at a cost.

Those chunky black plastic wheel arches, while intended to give it a more rugged look, make it resemble a Mazda 3 hatchback that's spent a bit too much time at the gym. It's a design that's bound to divide opinions.

Personally, I'm not entirely sold. And here's the real kicker: in a car nudging $50,000, the GT SP still has halogen daytime running lights. Seriously? In 2025? It's a glaring oversight that cheapens the overall premium feel and makes you wonder where Mazda's priorities lie.

Let's get you a deal on the Mazda CX-30

Interior and Comfort: A Class Above?

Step inside, and the CX-30 immediately redeems itself. The interior is a breath of fresh air, easily one of the nicest in this segment. Mazda has nailed the details. Soft-touch materials abound, the leather-wrapped steering wheel feels fantastic in your hands, and the red leather upholstery in our test car added a sporty touch.

The dashboard layout is clean and uncluttered, with intuitive controls and a well-integrated infotainment system. The combination of the rotary dial and touchscreen functionality is clever and easy to use, though the screen is a bit of a stretch to reach. It's a comfortable place to be, but space is a bit of a mixed bag. Front seat passengers have plenty of room to stretch out, but rear seat space is a bit tighter.

Legroom is adequate for shorter trips, but taller passengers might feel a bit cramped, especially on longer journeys. Think of it this way: it's perfect for a couple or a small family with young children, but if you regularly carry adults in the back, you might want to look elsewhere.

Performance and Handling: Zoom-Zoom or Just Zoom?

Under the bonnet, the CX-30 GT SP AWD packs a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine. While it's a decent unit, it lacks the punch and responsiveness of turbocharged engines found in some competitors. The six-speed automatic transmission can also feel a bit clunky at times, especially during low-speed manoeuvres and on inclines.

The ride quality is on the firm side, which can be a bit jarring on rough Australian roads. However, this firmness translates to good handling. The CX-30 feels planted and confident in corners, with well-weighted steering and minimal body roll. The AWD system provides added grip in wet conditions, but for most Australian drivers, the front-wheel-drive version would likely suffice.

💡

You'd be surprised how much you could save on a new car. Find out more!

Features and Technology: What Do You Get for Your Money?

The CX-30 GT SP AWD comes with a decent array of features, including a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, a user-friendly infotainment system, and premium touches like heated front seats and a sunroof. However, some features, like the surround-view camera and driver monitoring system, are bundled in the optional Vision Technology package, which adds to the overall cost. It's worth carefully considering which features are essential and whether the GT SP AWD offers good value compared to other trims or competitors.

Practicality and Space: Is It Family-Friendly?

Boot space in the CX-30 is adequate for a small SUV, but it's not the most spacious in its class. It's enough for a weekly grocery shop or a weekend getaway, but families with young children and prams might find it a bit tight. Rear passenger space is also a bit limited, especially legroom. If you regularly carry rear passengers, it's worth comparing the CX-30 to more spacious alternatives.

Fuel Economy: The Achilles Heel?

One of the CX-30's biggest drawbacks is its fuel economy. Real-world fuel consumption tends to be higher than the claimed figures, especially in city driving. This can be a significant concern for Australian drivers facing rising fuel costs. It's worth comparing the CX-30's fuel economy to its competitors and considering whether it's a deal-breaker.

Safety: ANCAP Rating and Key Features

The Mazda CX-30 boasts a five-star ANCAP safety rating, which is reassuring for Australian families. It comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims add even more advanced safety tech.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

Stylish and upscale interior
User-friendly infotainment system
Good handling
Comprehensive safety features

Cons:

Firm ride quality
Lacklustre engine performance
High fuel consumption
Limited rear seat and cargo space
Halogen DRLs on GT SP

Verdict: Is the CX-30 GT SP AWD the Right Choice for Australians?

The Mazda CX-30 GT SP AWD is a stylish and well-appointed small SUV with a premium feel. However, its high price, combined with its firm ride, lacklustre engine performance, and high fuel consumption, make it hard to recommend wholeheartedly.

While it excels in some areas, it falls short in others, especially compared to more practical and efficient rivals. For Australian buyers, it's worth exploring other options in the segment or considering a lower trim level of the CX-30 itself. The CX-30 offers a lot, but the GT SP AWD might not be the best value proposition in the lineup.