2020 Mazda CX-30 vs 2020 Subaru Limited

2020 Mazda CX-30 Preferred AWD	vs	2020 Subaru Crosstrek Limited AWD
$27,600	MSRP	$27,395
2.5L inline 4-cyl	Engine	2.0L flat 4-cyl
186 hp / 186 lb-ft	Horsepower / Torque	152 hp / 145 lb-ft
6-speed shiftable auto	Transmission	CVT
AWD or FWD	Drivetrain	AWD
25 cty / 33 hwy	Fuel Economy	27 cty / 33 hwy

Superior Drivability

As you can tell from the numbers above, the CX-30 has some serious power compared to the Crosstrek. That power makes the CX-30 quick and nimble. The Crosstrek is slow and tepid. Even with the accelerator pedal to the floor, it feels lethargic. Not only that, but the CX-30 has some of the most precise handling on the market. Mazda vehicles are famous for being exceptionally drivable. The Crosstrek feels flat by comparison. It’s floaty and unwilling when you do anything but the slowest of maneuvers. The CX-30 is fun to drive; the Crosstrek is stagnant.

Refined Interior

The Crosstrek is alright on the inside. There’s no scratchy, cheap plastics. The ride is relatively quiet and comfortable. In short, there’s nothing to complain about, but there’s nothing to be impressed by either. The CX-30, on the other hand, feels like a luxury vehicle, especially at higher trims. No matter which trim you pick, however, the interior is streamlined, upscale, and ergonomic. The buttons and controls are few and logically placed, the interior materials range from great to exceptional (depending on the trim), and the seats are comfortable, even for long commutes and road trips.