Mazda CX-30 vs. Toyota Corolla Cross

If you’re in the market for a subcompact SUV, many factors are important to consider when making your purchase. Your family likely wants a vehicle with decent fuel efficiency, practical cargo capabilities, and good safety technologies. In other cases, you might prioritize other factors like styling, power, or convenience.

Here at Capistrano Mazda, we’re here to help you make your decision by comparing the 2023 Mazda CX-30 and the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross. While many families turn to these SUVs for their road trips and cross-town drives, the one that’s right for you depends on your budget and preferences. Read on to learn more about these models’ trim levels, exteriors, engines, interiors, and more.

Trim Levels

The Mazda CX-30 has a whopping seven trim levels to choose from, giving you plenty of options to customize your vehicle how you like. The most basic trim is the 2.5 S, which has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $22,950. If you want to get the most advanced CX-30 trim, expect an MSRP of $35,400.

Though some people appreciate the fewer trim levels available for the Toyota Corolla Crossover, you won’t have has many opportunities to customize. The three trim levels for the Corolla Crossover are the L, LE, and XLE. The most advanced version has an MSRP of $27,165, which is cheaper than the most expensive CX-30 trim. If you’re going for a budget option, know that the basic CX-30 2.5 S is cheaper than the basic Corolla Crossover L as the latter has an MSRP of $23,060.

Exterior

The Toyota Corolla Cross’s exterior definitely draws some inspiration from its namesake Corolla, but you’ll find that its exterior has more similarities to the RAV4. It features similar proportions, an angry scowl, and an angular arch shape along the bottom of the side profile. The black plastic rocker body panels also help define the Corolla Cross’s rugged look, but the model has an overall plain and inexpensive styling.

If you’re looking for something a little more sophisticated and stylish, consider the Mazda CX-30. It features a crisp and upscale body with swoops, gentle curves, and refined paints. The CX-30 is a perfect reflection of the manufacturer’s ability to create premium-looking vehicles at affordable prices.

Engine

While looks are certainly a factor to consider, let’s take a look under the hood for these two models. The Mazda CX-30 has an available Skyactiv®-G 2.5 Turbo engine that delivers up to 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. This output is greater than what many people associate with similar models on the market.

Even if you opt for a CX-30 2.5 S, you’ll appreciate the 2.5-liter engine that produces a respectable 191 horsepower. Though it produces less power, this engine is preferable among drivers who appreciate an improved fuel economy of up to 26 miles per gallon in the city and 33 miles per gallon on the highway.

Compared to the CX-30, the Toyota Corolla Crossover’s engine is a little less powerful. Its 2.0-liter engine produces 169 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque, which are numbers that pale in comparison to even the more basic CX-30 2.5 S models. The good news is that the Corolla Crossover’s engine offers an impressive combined fuel efficiency of up to 32 miles per gallon.

Performance

Though the Toyota Corolla Crossover offers decent handling, many of its performance features are available rather than being standard. You can opt for multi-link rear suspension to optimize ride quality and stability. It also has available all-wheel drive that intelligently provides the ideal traction.

The Mazda CX-30 takes performance to the next level by making i-Active all-wheel drive standard with all of its models. This system continuously monitors vehicle dynamics to send the appropriate amount of torque to the tires. You’ll also appreciate that the all-wheel drive system works with G-Vectoring Control Plus to make precise power and braking adjustments. Overall, the result is a smoother ride.

Interior

The Mazda CX-30’s premium look extends to its interior cabin. It creates an inviting environment through features ranging from its available perforated leather and premium stitching to its sophisticated color palettes. You’ll also appreciate subtle features like the thoughtful placement of gauges and displays. The standard cargo area provides up to 20.2 cubic feet of space, though you can get up to 45.2 cubic feet by putting the rear seats down.

Though the Toyota Corolla Crossover has a less luxurious feel, the model has plenty of features that create an elevated experience. It offers 8.1 inches of ground clearance to offer abundant head room and a heightened view over traffic. Stay comfortable with features like rear-seat vents, an available power tilt/slide moonroof, and an available 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. While the 26.5 cubic feet of cargo space is plenty practical, you can expand your storage area by leveraging the 60/40 split fold-down rear seats.

Technology

While the Mazda CX-30 and Toyota Corolla Cross come with similar features like Apple CarPlay connectivity, they have distinct technologies. For instance, the CX-30 has an 8.8-inch center-mounted display compatible with the multifunction Commander control and voice prompts and an available 12-speaker Bose sound system. Meanwhile, the Toyota Corolla Cross features an 8-inch audio multimedia touchscreen, Qi wireless charging, and an available power liftgate.

Safety

The Mazda CX-30 is a 2022 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ because of its available Traffic Jam Assist, front and rear parking sensors, and 360-degree view monitor. The Toyota Corolla Cross also prioritizes your safety through Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which features everything from a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection to Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

We hope we’ve provided a thorough guide on the 2023 Mazda CX-30 versus the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross. While both models can be practical options for families, the former offers superior features in categories ranging from exterior styling to engine performance. If you’re ready to shop for a 2023 Mazda CX-30 today, contact our team here at Capo Mazda. We’re eager to answer any questions you have and schedule your test drive at a time that works for you.