What is the difference between the Mazda CX-30 and the Mazda CX-5?

Mazda has several small utility vehicles in its lineup and it's sometimes difficult to know what advantages some have over others. The truth is, it's just important to understand the purpose of each one, as they all cater to a specific customer base.

Take the CX-30 and CX-5. Both have everything you need, but each may also offer something more than the other, which may make you lean towards one or the other, depending on your aspirations. 

Let's take a look at what differentiates the CX-30 from the CX-5. Also count on the fact that each point of comparison depends on your preferences.

Fuel economy

If fuel economy is your ultimate priority, the CX-30 is the one to go for.

In fact, both vehicles share two engines, a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder and a 2.5-liter turbo 4-cylinder. The capacities are the same, but because the CX-30 is lighter, it consumes less fuel. We're talking about 0.5 liters per 100 kilometers for highway driving.

Then, if you want to push economy to the max, the CX-30 can be fitted with a 2-litre 4-cylinder engine, this time much more frugal. The difference is even greater, between 0.7 and 1.0 L/100 km.

That said, the CX-5 offers some of the best fuel economy in its class, so you're not losing out with this vehicle either.

Storage

If storage is on your list of priorities, then the CX-5 is the one to go for. The CX-5 offers 875 liters of cargo space behind the second row of seats. That's only 572 liters with the CX-30. Then, once the bench seat is folded in the second row, there is a clearance of 1687 liters with the CX-5. It's limited to 1,280 liters with the CX-30.

Consequently, if you're used to carrying a lot of stuff, the choice is easy to make here.

Dynamism

Both models compared are very agile on the road. Often cited as the best of its kind, the CX-5 is a reference in terms of sportiness. The CX-30 is just as agile, and because it's lighter, it handles a little better.

It's also faster, because it's lighter. It's not a huge difference, but if you like to push your vehicles a little bit, the CX-50 is going to be more appealing to you.

All in all, it's really a matter of taste and need between these two vehicles. Determine these accurately and you'll know which model to choose.