2022 Mazda CX-30 vs. 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross

The Mazda CX-30 is Mazda's latest semi-premium small and compact SUV in the North American market. Due to its size and price point, the Toyota Corolla Cross is a practical competitor to vehicles such as the Mazda CX-30. But how do these two really stack up against one another? Will the additional horsepower and jaw-dropping good looks of the CX-30 be enough to dethrone the Corolla Cross as king of the hill? Or is the Toyota such a well-designed and well-functioning vehicle for families that it can stand on its own? Here we have the Mazda CX-30 versus the Toyota Corolla Cross.

Design & Style

It almost seems like a magic trick that Mazda is able to produce automobiles that have the appearance of being valued at around two times what they actually cost. This is made possible by what is arguably the most sophisticated and well-curated paint pallet available in the industry. The front-wheel drive architecture that underpins their all-wheel-drive (AWD) options is obscured in some way by the dimensions of the car. The interior retains the theme of having a luxurious appearance while maintaining an affordable price. Soft arcs and smooth curves make up the bulk of its design, while a slim, modern accent stands out.

A vehicle that has a lovely appearance is the Toyota Corolla Cross. It does share some similarities with the Corolla sedan, from which it takes its name, but it more quickly evokes images of the RAV4 than anything else. The dashboard is minimalistic and the majority of the controls are positioned high on the panel so that the driver does not have to take their eyes off the road for an extended period of time in order to access any of the functions. But other than the dashboard, there is little that stands out, and sadly, just like other Toyotas, it displays its frugal nature on its sleeve; the materials are unsurprising in their lack of sophistication and their low cost.

Technology

The audio equipment that comes standard on the CX-30 consists of eight speakers, an infotainment system with an 8.8-inch screen as its centerpiece, voice control, and connectivity with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Even in the "basic" 2.5 S, you get HD radio connectivity as well as a trial membership to Mazda Connected Services for three years. The high-end audio system includes a total of 12 Bose speakers in its configuration. Nothing to be ashamed of for such a reasonably priced subcompact crossover.

Even base models come standard with a 7.0-inch LCD touchscreen that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Corolla Cross LE and XLE both offer high-definition 8.0-inch screens with an optional premium audio kit that includes a standalone amplifier and 9 JBL speakers, along with a subwoofer. The Mazda CX-30  and the Toyota Corolla Cross are both extremely well-equipped for their respective pricing ranges; nevertheless, we can't help but believe that the Mazda CX-30 comes out on top when it comes to the category of technology and features.

Performance

The Mazda CX-30 is unique in that it allows buyers to choose between two alternative engine configurations. The first is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a natural aspiration system that produces a decent 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. A turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is available as an option and can produce up to 227 horsepower on 87-octane fuel and 250 on 93-octane. The latter motor claims to have 310 or 320 lb-ft of torque, respectively, depending on the fuel type.

Toyota's engines have always been reliable, and the 2022 Corolla Cross 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder is no exception. For such a compact car, its maximum output of 169 horsepower and maximum torque of 151 lb-ft is more than sufficient. The Mazda is the perfect car for you if you want to want to satisfy both your need for speed and your want to keep your costs down while carrying your family.

The Bottom Line

In the battle between the Toyota Corolla Cross and the Mazda CX-30, it's fairly certain that the Mazda CX-30 is the victor in this situation. The Mazda CX-30 is difficult to beat if you are seeking an exquisite and upscale-looking vehicle at a price that is extremely fair and if you are able to make the Mazda's modest cargo space fit for your lifestyle.