All the Best Mazda Compact SUVs

For 2022, Mazda has three compact SUVs to choose from: the CX-5, the CX-30, and the all-new electric MX-30.
Written by Sarah Williams
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
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The 2022 Mazda CX-30 is the top compact SUV in its segment, but it’s certainly not the only competitive option Mazda offers. 
Mazda is known for making reliable family cars that are fun to drive and don’t skimp out on style. Of the six Mazda’s released in the US in 2022, five were compact—and three compact SUVs. Mazda even released its first electric vehicle in 2022, the all-new MX-30.  
In this article, we’ll dive into each 2022 Mazda compact SUV. We’ll also go over which Mazda’s are the cheapest and smallest—and even how to get the best deals on
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2022 Mazda compact SUV models

Mazda has three compact SUV models for 2022—including one hybrid option. Let’s take a closer look at what each of these compact SUVs brings to the table! 

2022 Mazda CX-5 ($27,525 MSRP)

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 packs a lot of class into a small (and affordable!) package. If you’re looking for an elegant compact, the CX-5’s styling and rich interior make it one of the best cars in the compact SUV segment
How did Mazda CX-5 rise to the top of the competition despite limited legroom and cargo space? Simply because it's a great car to drive with premium features. Edmunds rates it an 8.1 out of 10, Car and Driver gives it an almost perfect rating at 9.5 out of 10. For a compact SUV that marries elegance and performance at a reasonable price, check out the 2022 Mazda CX-5! 
Highlights of the Mazda CX-5 include: 
  • Balanced steering and handling make for an enjoyable drive
  • A powerful optional turbocharged engine 
  • Premium cabin
  • Quiet on the highway 
Weaknesses include: 
  • Base engine has unimpressive acceleration
  • Less leg and cargo room than its rivals
  • Towing capacity of only 2000 lbs

2022 Mazda CX-30 ($23,775 MSRP)

Next up, we have the slightly smaller and sportier Mazda CX-30. Offering even better driving dynamics and smaller environmental impacts, the CX-30 is a great option for smaller families or couples. 
Like the CX-5, the CX-30’s base engine leaves something to be desired, whereas the optional turbocharged ramps things up. For the CX-30, Mazda went all out, supplying an abundance of standard safety features, and all 2022 models come with all-wheel drive. The 2022 CX-30’s handling nods to Mazda’s line of sports cars, leading Car and Driver to rate it a 9.5 out of 10 and give it an Editor’s Choice award. Edmonds, on the other hand, ranks it slightly below the CX-5 at a 7.9 out of 10. 
Highlights of the Mazda CX-30 include: 
  • A powerful turbocharged engine option
  • Agile handling
  • Upscale build and interior
  • Plenty of standard safety features
Weaknesses include: 
  • Some clumsiness with the automatic transmission
  • Base engine can be slow
  • Notable rear blind spots

2022 Mazda MX-30 ($34,695 MSRP)

Car and Driver: 6/10
Edmunds: 7.6/10
Now for something completely different—Mazda’s first entry into the world of electric vehicles. As with many firsts, the MX-30 is a bit rough around the edges when it comes to range. With a 30kWh battery pack that only makes 100 miles of range, the MX-30 has a ways to go to catch up to the competition. Car and Driver rates the 2022 MX-30 6 out of 10, and it receives an improved rating of 7.6 out of 10 from Edmunds. 
Where the MX-30 shines is its sustainable design materials and popping exterior styling. The cabin offers a quiet ride with a surprising amount of cargo space, considering the MX-30 isn’t equipped with a trunk. 
For now, you can only buy the 2022 MX-30 in California. 
Highlights of the Mazda MX-30 include: 
  • Great use of sustainable interior materials
  • Nimble handling
  • Quiet ride
Weaknesses include: 
  • Short driving range
  • Cramped back seat
  • Slow acceleration 
MORE:Everything you need to know about Mazda electric cars
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Other small Mazda models

The three models above are the only current true compact models Mazda has to offer—but that doesn’t mean there aren’t any other small vehicles on the table. Here are two other small Mazdas to consider (outside the SUV category): 
  • Mazda 3 ($22,215 MSRP): Available as a compact sedan or hatchback, the Mazda 3 offers a competitive alternative to an SUV.  
  • Mazda MX-5 Miata ($28,715 MSRP): As the world’s top-selling roadster, this little convertible can be purchased as both a hard-top or soft-top. It may be tiny, but it sure is fun to drive!
For 2022, Mazda also offers the CX-9, a three-row crossover SUV if you’re open to a larger vehicle. 

What is Mazda’s smallest car? 

Today, the smallest Mazda is the CX-30, but if we go back over the years, the smallest Mazda of all time is the Mazda 2! Let’s take a look at how these two vehicles compare: 
  • 2014 Mazda 2: 98 inches 
  • 2022 Mazda CX-30 wheelbase: 104.4 inches
  • 2014 Mazda 2 passenger volume: 87.1 cubic feet 
  • 2022 Mazda CX-30 passenger volume: 93.8 cubic feet 

What is Mazda’s cheapest car?

The cheapest 2022 Mazda is the Mazda 3. This compact vehicle comes as a sedan or a hatchback at a starting price of $22,215. 
MORE:Are Mazdas expensive to maintain?

How to save on Mazda insurance

Believe it or not, smaller cars are more expensive to insure than larger cars like the Mazda CX-9. Because of the higher risk of damage in accidents, insurance providers often increase the premiums on smaller cars. 
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