CX-30

Make
Mazda
Segment
SUV

Just a few weeks after announcing the turbocharged 2021 Mazda3, Mazda has introduced the Mazda CX-30 2.5 S for the 2021 model year with the sleek crossover receiving some new standard features. Unfortunately, that 'S' at the end is all show and no go.

Instead of packing the 2.5-liter turbocharged SkyActiv engine found in the new Mazda3, it uses the same naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder as last year producing the same 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. As with last year's model, power is sent out through a six-speed automatic transmission to either G-Vectoring Control Plus with front-wheel-drive or optional i-Activ all-wheel-drive with an off-road traction assist feature.

New for 2021, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto now come as standard features, joining Mazda Connected Services with a three-year trial and in-car Wi-Fi hot spot with six-months. Other standard features on the 2021 CX-30 S include an 8.8-inch center display, Bluetooth, two front USB ports, electronic parking brake, power windows with one-touch up/down, rain-sensing wipers, push-button start, a rearview camera, and remote keyless entry system. Mazda's i-Activsense safety technologies are also included, bundling adaptive cruise, smart brake support, drive attention alert, lane-keep assist, and high-beam control.

Stepping up to the CX-30 2.5 S Select adds blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, side mirror turn signal indicators, advanced keyless entry, leatherette seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear air conditioning vents, rear armrest with cupholders, and 18-inch wheels. The CX-30 2.5 S Preferred gets a power moonroof, heated front seats, eight-way power and memory driver's seat with lumbar support, memory position door mirrors, and black grille.

The top CX-30 2.5 S Premium trim gets more goodies including a Bose 12-speaker audio system, SiriusXM, HUD, navigation, leather seats, a power liftgate, adaptive front lighting, shark fin antenna, roof rails, paddle shifters, gloss finish speaker grille, and LED headlights and taillights. Pricing for the CX-30 2.5 S starts at $21,900 or $23,300 with AWD. The Select, Preferred, and Premium trims cost $23,900, $26,300, and $28,550, with an additional $1,400 for AWD.