Mazda CX-30 vs Mazda CX-9: Should We Compare?

Two of the most attractive and fun-to-drive SUVs are the Mazda CX-30 and Mazda CX-9. Should these two Mazdas be compared to each other?

These two Mazda crossovers don’t actually compete with each other. Instead of thinking of this as an apples and oranges comparison, it’s more like big apples versus small apples. Both are the same fruit and offer similar tastes, but one is larger than the other. The CX-9 is a three-row midsize crossover, while the CX-30 is a subcompact five-seat crossover SUV.

Instead of comparing these two Mazda SUVs, we offer five reasons to drive each of them.

5 reasons you’ll love driving the Mazda CX-30

1. The secret to the SkyActiv engine is alive and well

For several years, Mazda has offered the benefits of a SkyActiv engine to provide maximum torque at low rpms. Every year it seemed this engine technology only got better than the previous year. The CX-30 uses a 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that pumps out 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. This SUV hits maximum torque at 2,500 rpm, which means you’ll rocket off the line in the CX-30.

2. You’ll find a long list of great features in this small Mazda

Mazda packs a lot of great items into the CX-30, giving you a small vehicle with plenty of great features to enjoy. This little SUV includes faux leather upholstery, an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and standard AWD. When you want a more luxurious package, you’ll need to head to the Premium Plus trim and enjoy real leather, a heated steering wheel, along with heated power front seats which add more to the comfort factor in this impressive little SUV.

3. Just look at this beautiful crossover

One of the most alluring qualities of every Mazda SUV is the implementation of the Kodo design language. This design allows your eye to flow smoothly over the mane surfaces and lines offered in the body structure of this small and impressive SUV. The exterior is both alluring and charming, making it one of the most attractive vehicles you’ll find on the road. You’ll love showing off this impressive small SUV when you’re ready to head out for a great drive.

4. The cabin is just as attractive as the exterior

The styling beauty doesn’t end with the body design of the Mazda CX-30. Open the doors and see the impressive look and premium design that comes to you in a mainstream crossover. Mazda offers the right number of knobs and buttons while showcasing clean lines and a seamless interior style that makes you smile whenever you step inside. From the base model on up, you’ll find durable and upscale materials that give this SUV the look and feel you’re sure to love.

5. Mazda handling is present in this crossover

Mazda doesn’t simply offer excellent acceleration in the vehicles wearing the name. This brand also brings an impressive level of handling and control out on the road. The CX-30 benefits from G-Vectoring Control Plus, which sends torque to the wheels that need it to give you the most control on the road. The steering is quick and decisive, the engagement level makes driving fun, and the peppy engine propels you to your desired speed in a hurry. Driving this small crossover is a lot of fun.

5 reasons you’ll love driving the Mazda CX-9

1. No other midsize three-row crossover is like this Mazda

The CX-9 is a bit smaller than most other three-row midsize crossovers, but that smaller size allows this SUV to be the sportiest model in the market. This SUV hits the road with impressive handling and control, giving you the fun and active drive desired. While not as quick and active as much smaller vehicles in the Mazda lineup, this SUV brings the driving pleasure you won’t find in other three-row crossovers.

2. Performance to go with the handling offered

There’s more than steering perfection in the Mazda CX-9. You’ll find an impressive powertrain to give you the desired drive. The SkyActiv 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine pumps out 250 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain is the same as the one you find in the CX-30, which means it hits the top of the torque range at 2,500 rpm, giving this larger crossover the off-the-line quickness desired.

3. You can take the CX-9 out on some light trails

If you don’t mind getting the wheels dirty, you’ll be glad to have the AWD system found in this Mazda crossover. This system, along with the 8 inches of ground clearance, allows this SUV to tackle a few trails for some fun in the wilderness. You won’t challenge the likes of a Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco, but this Mazda SUV can be found next to a lake, campsite, or on top of a hill where a light or medium trail takes you.

4. You’ll find luxury qualities in this Mazda SUV

There’s more than simply a premium feeling to the Mazda CX-9. This SUV should be placed in the luxury market, but don’t tell Mazda that. The seats are comfortable, the switches feel right, and the materials are upscale and offer the premium feeling desired. If you move up to the higher trims, you’ll find quilted leather seats, Rosewood inlays, and attractive metal trimming. This SUV is styled right and laid out perfectly to make it the right choice when you want something better.

5. There’s more room than you expect in the CX-9

You can have this Mazda crossover with seating for six or seven people, making it easy to take the whole family out for a drive. The rear bench seat will either have room for two or three passengers. You’ll still find room behind the rear seat for some luggage, but this space is much larger when you use the fold-flat feature of the third-row seat. This roomy cabin is versatile and great for lots of family road trips.

Whether you choose to drive the Mazda CX-30 or the Mazda CX-9, you’ll find the quality, performance, comfort, and features desired for a great drive. Which of these crossovers is right for you?