I'll be the first to admit - small cars really aren't my thing. As a bigger guy, they just aren't built for me, but at the same time, they are very fun to drive since despite smaller engines, the more premium trims tend to be fun and sporty to drive. This isn't an ideal road trip vehicle, but it makes a great vehicle as a second car for commuting or even as a graduation present for your son or daughter to keep them safe and stylish when they go back to college this fall.
Do You Like Road Trips?
- Turbocharged 250-horsepower engine delivers genuine performance with standard all-wheel drive
- Premium cabin materials and Bose audio system provide luxury-SUV refinement at compact pricing
- Higher driving position and better visibility than traditional compact cars
- Standard AWD capability enhances confidence in all weather conditions
- Strong resale value and Mazda reliability reputation ensure long-term ownership satisfaction
Turbocharged Performance and All-Weather Capability
The 2025 CX-30 Turbo Premium's SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter turbocharged engine produces 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel (227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft on regular), and I found it pretty peppy during my time with the vehicle. The turbocharged engine responds eagerly to throttle inputs with maximum torque available between 2,000-2,500 rpm, creating engaging acceleration that makes city driving and highway merging genuinely satisfying. Unlike the Mazda3, every CX-30 comes standard with i-ACTIV all-wheel drive, continuously monitoring conditions and shifting power to maintain optimal traction.
I was impressed that it had a pretty good trunk area too. The compact SUV configuration provides 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, with 45.2 cubic feet when folded flat - significantly more versatile than traditional compact cars. However, even though I rarely sit in backseats as a bigger guy, this backseat seemed pretty cramped compared to others in the class, with limited rear knee clearance that could be an issue for taller passengers.
One thing to note about the Turbo Premium specifically is that the ride quality felt noticeably stiffer than I would have preferred when navigating Toledo's city streets and (not always successfully) dodging the inevitable potholes and rough road surfaces. This vehicle is clearly tuned more for performance and handling than raw comfort - a deliberate tradeoff that becomes apparent in urban driving. However, that same stiffer suspension setup really shines when you get out onto rural roads where the enhanced body control and responsive handling make the driving experience genuinely engaging. It's something potential buyers should be aware of if they're considering this trim level, especially if most of your driving will be in stop-and-go urban conditions in Midwest cities ravaged by weather-related decay.
G-Vectoring Control Plus enhances handling by subtly adjusting engine torque during cornering, creating more predictable vehicle behavior that builds confidence on winding roads or during emergency maneuvers.
Premium Features and Technology Integration
The Turbo Premium Package elevates the CX-30's cabin with genuine leather seating available in black or white, creating an upscale environment that rivals luxury competitors. The higher driving position provides better visibility than traditional compact cars, though I found that rear visibility to the corners of the car was sometimes difficult, especially considering a vehicle at this price point shouldn't be expected to have 360 surround cameras and other advanced tech features.
That 360 Surround Camera is an available feature on the Premium Plus trim though.
The Bose 12-speaker premium audio system with Centerpoint and AudioPilot technology delivers exceptional sound quality that transforms daily drives into premium experiences. The Active Driving Display projects essential information onto the windshield, while the new Mazda Online Navigation system provides over-the-air updates for accurate routing. SiriusXM satellite radio with a three-month trial and heated steering wheel add comfort during longer commutes. These technology integrations feel mature and refined rather than gimmicky, supporting the driving experience without overwhelming it.
Safety Technology and Value Considerations
Mazda's comprehensive i-ACTIVSENSE safety suite comes standard, including Mazda Radar Cruise Control with stop-and-go functionality, Smart Brake Support with pedestrian detection, and Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. The Adaptive Front-lighting System automatically adjusts headlight direction based on steering input, enhancing visibility during nighttime driving.
This is something to consider when shopping for this car as a potential back-to-school gift, as the visibility limitations, combined with the compact SUV's size, could present challenges for newer drivers, despite the comprehensive safety technology. Starting at $36,950, the CX-30 Turbo Premium positions itself as a premium compact SUV that doesn't compromise on features or all-weather capability. The turbocharged engine and standard AWD create a compelling value proposition, while fuel economy of 22 city/30 highway/25 combined mpg remains reasonable for a turbocharged AWD vehicle.
The CX-30 Turbo Premium Delivers Where It Counts
Overall, I really enjoyed this vehicle just as I have across the entire Mazda line. Mazda tends to be a distinct brand that favors the experience over more traditional elements, and when you consider this is a pretty premium feeling vehicle with plenty of pep, it's absolutely a vehicle that you should consider when shopping for a luxury compact SUV.
The 2025 CX-30 Turbo Premium succeeds by combining genuine turbocharged performance with practical SUV versatility and standard all-weather capability. While the rear seating and visibility limitations require consideration, the elevated driving position, engaging turbocharged engine, and comprehensive safety technology create genuine appeal for those seeking a premium compact SUV experience. The combination of 250-horsepower performance, standard AWD confidence, and practical cargo space makes it an excellent choice for specific use cases - whether as a smart commuter vehicle or a graduation gift that keeps young drivers safe and stylish.
