Mazda is giving its smallest crossover, the CX-30, a sweeping refresh for the 2026 model year, adding new trims, upgraded technology, and standard all-wheel drive across the lineup. The move underscores the Japanese automaker’s strategy to make its compact SUV stand out in one of the industry’s most competitive segments.
Since its debut in 2019, the CX-30 has earned a reputation for offering premium design touches and nimble handling at a price point below luxury competitors. Positioned between the defunct CX-3 and the larger CX-5, it has quickly become a cornerstone of Mazda’s North American lineup. With compact crossovers now dominating U.S. sales charts, Mazda is leaning on the CX-30 to deliver both volume and brand cachet.
A Broad Range of Models
For 2026, the CX-30 will be available in eight trims, each targeted to slightly different buyers. The entry-level 2.5 S starts at $25,975 and includes the essentials: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 186 horsepower, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Standard equipment includes cloth seating, an 8.8-inch infotainment display, push-button start, and LED exterior lighting.
Above it, the 2.5 S Select Sport, priced at $27,660, adds more comfort and technology, such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Alexa integration, dual-zone climate control, and leatherette upholstery available in black or greige. Heated front seats, an eight-way power driver’s seat with memory, and 18-inch alloy wheels also distinguish this trim.
The Preferred model, starting at $29,290, builds on that equipment with a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, a wireless charging pad, a power-sliding moonroof, and silver roof rails. Leatherette seating continues, with rain-sensing wipers and parking sensors rounding out its features.
New for 2026 is the 2.5 S Aire Edition, priced at $29,850. Drawing inspiration from lifestyle-oriented trims introduced on other Mazda models, the Aire Edition emphasizes light-colored interiors with white leatherette seats, gray suede-like trim, and soft gray stitching. Gloss black exterior badges, black roof rails, and black metallic wheels give it a distinct, modern look.
The 2.5 S Carbon Edition, at $31,030, takes a different approach, pairing exclusive Polymetal Gray paint with red leather seats and black 18-inch wheels. It also includes a Bose 12-speaker premium audio system and an auto-dimming frameless rearview mirror with Homelink.
At $33,240, the 2.5 S Premium trim layers on additional technology and safety features. These include a 360-degree camera, an Active Driving Display with traffic sign recognition, adaptive front lighting, a heated steering wheel, and a power liftgate. Buyers can choose between black or white leather upholstery, while exterior cues include LED signature headlights and taillights.
The lineup then shifts to turbocharged performance. The new 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition, priced at $34,410, carries the same bright interior treatment as the non-turbo Aire Edition but adds the punch of Mazda’s 2.5-liter turbo engine. Output ranges from 227 horsepower on regular fuel to 250 horsepower on premium, with torque figures up to 320 pound-feet. Gloss black badges and gray suede seat inserts distinguish the Turbo Aire visually.
At the top of the range sits the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus, with a sticker price of $37,900. This trim combines nearly every available feature in the lineup, including paddle shifters, SiriusXM satellite radio, cruising and traffic support that helps maintain lane position and following distance, and additional exterior gloss black accents. The model is aimed squarely at buyers who want a near-luxury experience without stepping into a premium brand.
Mechanical and Safety Upgrades Across the Board
All CX-30 models now come standard with Mazda’s i-Activ all-wheel drive system, which monitors weight distribution and traction in real time. For 2026, engineers have added a brake-based limited-slip differential to improve grip, along with retuned dampers for a smoother ride.
Safety and driver assistance features are also generous. Standard i-Activsense technology includes radar cruise control with Stop and Go, blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims expand the suite with features like rear cross-traffic braking, parking sensors, and traffic sign recognition.
Interior: Affordable but Upmarket
Mazda has long emphasized interior quality as a differentiator, and the CX-30 continues this tradition. Even the base model offers an infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, while higher trims bring wireless smartphone connectivity, Alexa Built-in, and Bose premium audio. Leatherette and leather upholstery options give the cabin a more upscale feel, with color choices ranging from black and greige to the striking red leather of the Carbon Edition.
New trims like the Aire Edition highlight Mazda’s willingness to experiment with lighter palettes, aiming to appeal to buyers who want a modern, design-forward aesthetic rather than the dark tones common in the segment.
Competitive Context
The compact crossover class is among the most crowded in the U.S., with rivals such as the Honda HR-V, Toyota Corolla Cross, Hyundai Kona, Kia Seltos, and Volkswagen Taos. Mazda’s strategy has been to lean into driving engagement, premium styling, and safety to justify prices that are slightly higher than many mainstream competitors.
With pricing that stretches from the mid-$20,000s to nearly $40,000, the CX-30 overlaps with some luxury subcompacts from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, though it undercuts them on price while offering a comparable list of features. By expanding its trim walk, Mazda hopes to attract both value-oriented buyers and those seeking a more distinctive design statement.
A Growing Role in Mazda’s Lineup
Mazda has made no secret of its ambitions to move upmarket, and the CX-30 is central to that effort. Compact in size but rich in features, it appeals to younger buyers as well as empty nesters downsizing from larger SUVs.
The 2026 updates underscore that strategy. By adding the Aire Editions, standardizing advanced safety features, and offering a turbocharged engine with luxury-level equipment, Mazda is aiming to give buyers a reason to consider the CX-30 not just alongside other mainstream crossovers, but against entry-level luxury models as well.
As crossover demand shows no signs of slowing, the CX-30’s expanded lineup demonstrates how Mazda plans to hold its ground: by blending utility and affordability with the polish of a more premium brand.