Mazda CX-30 vs Subaru Crosstrek
2026 Mazda CX-30 vs.
Subaru Crosstrek
Two popular subcompact SUVs with standard AWD — but only one delivers a truly premium driving experience. See how they compare head to head.
Browse Mazda CX-30 Inventory(Mazda CX-30 Starts at $25,975 with AWD)
(Subaru Crosstrek: Not Awarded)
(No Turbo Option on Subaru Crosstrek)
The Mazda Advantage
From available turbo power to an interior that rivals luxury brands, the Mazda CX-30 outshines the competition where it matters most.
Available Turbo Power
While the base engines are closely matched — 186 hp in the Mazda CX-30 versus 180 hp in the Subaru Crosstrek — only the Mazda CX-30 offers a turbo upgrade. The available 2.5-liter turbo produces up to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel, making it one of the quickest subcompact SUVs on the market. The Subaru Crosstrek has no turbo option at any price.
Up to 250 HP AvailableSportier Driving Dynamics
The Mazda CX-30's responsive steering, composed handling, and refined 6-speed automatic transmission make every drive engaging. New for 2026, a standard brake-based limited-slip differential and updated dampers sharpen the athletic feel even further. The Subaru Crosstrek relies on a CVT that many drivers find less engaging under acceleration.
6.2-sec 0–60 MPH (Turbo)Premium Interior Quality
Mazda's upmarket push means the Mazda CX-30's cabin features soft-touch surfaces, available leather upholstery, and a driver-focused layout that reviewers compare favorably to the Audi Q3 and BMW X1. The Subaru Crosstrek's interior is functional but explicitly utilitarian, with harder plastics and a more workmanlike aesthetic.
Near-Luxury Cabin QualityHighest Safety Honors
The Mazda CX-30 earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation — the institute's highest award — along with a 5-Star Overall Rating from NHTSA. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek did not earn an IIHS Top Safety Pick award under the institute's updated 2026 testing criteria. Both received 5-Star Overall Ratings from NHTSA, but the Mazda CX-30 stands alone with TSP+.
IIHS Top Safety Pick+More Value Per Dollar
With a starting MSRP of $25,975, the Mazda CX-30 undercuts the Subaru Crosstrek's $26,995 base price by over $1,000 — while delivering a traditional automatic transmission, available turbo power, a richer set of standard features, and the IIHS's highest safety distinction. Both include standard AWD on every trim.
Starts at $25,975Superior Technology
Available features include a 10.25-inch touchscreen, Bose 12-speaker audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a head-up display, 360° View Monitor, and Alexa Built-in — offering tech you won't find on the Subaru Crosstrek at any price.
Available 12-Speaker Bose AudioHead-to-Head Comparison
A side-by-side look at the numbers that matter. Green highlights indicate the Mazda CX-30's advantages.
| Specification | 2026 Mazda CX-30 | 2026 Subaru Crosstrek |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $25,975 | $26,995 |
| Base Engine HP | 186 hp (2.5L) | 180 hp (2.5L) |
| Base Engine Torque | 186 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Available Turbo | 250 hp / 320 lb-ft | Not Available |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic | CVT |
| Standard AWD | i-Activ AWD | Symmetrical AWD |
| Combined MPG (Base) | 27 mpg | 29 mpg |
| Highway MPG (Base) | 31 mpg | 33 mpg |
| IIHS Rating | Top Safety Pick+ | Not Awarded |
| NHTSA Overall | 5 Stars | 5 Stars |
| Available Audio | Bose 12-Speaker | Harman Kardon 10-Speaker |
| Head-Up Display | Available | Not Available |
| 360° View Monitor | Available | Not Available |
| Ground Clearance | 8.0 inches | 8.7 inches |
| Cargo Volume (Seats Up) | 20.2 cu. ft. | 19.9 cu. ft. |
| Cargo Volume (Seats Down) | 45.2 cu. ft. | 54.7 cu. ft. |
Where the Mazda CX-30 Truly Shines
Performance That Inspires Confidence
For 2026, the Subaru Crosstrek has standardized its 2.5-liter engine across all trims, bringing base horsepower up to 180 — closer to the Mazda CX-30's 186 hp. But the real story is what happens beyond the base engine. Only the Mazda CX-30 offers an available turbocharged engine producing up to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel — making it one of the quickest subcompact SUVs you can buy, reaching 60 mph in just 6.2 seconds. The Subaru Crosstrek has no turbo option at any price.
New for 2026, the Mazda CX-30 adds a standard brake-based limited-slip differential and updated dampers, sharpening its already praised handling and ride quality. The Mazda CX-30 also pairs its engine with a traditional 6-speed automatic transmission that delivers crisp, predictable shifts. The Subaru Crosstrek relies on a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which many drivers find less engaging and occasionally droning under acceleration.
A Cabin That Punches Above Its Class
Mazda's commitment to moving upmarket is on full display inside the Mazda CX-30. Soft-touch materials, thoughtful design, and precise fit and finish create an environment that automotive journalists routinely compare to entry-level luxury SUVs like the Audi Q3, BMW X1, and Mercedes-Benz GLA — vehicles that cost thousands more.
Available features like genuine leather upholstery, a power-operated rear liftgate, heated steering wheel, and Bose 12-speaker premium audio system reinforce this premium impression. New for 2026, the Aire Edition trims introduce a fresh light-colored interior with white leatherette seats and gray suede-like trim. The Subaru Crosstrek's cabin, while well-built and practical, takes a more straightforward, utilitarian approach with harder plastics and a more workmanlike aesthetic.
Safety Leadership
The safety gap between these two vehicles has widened for 2026. The Mazda CX-30 continues to earn IIHS Top Safety Pick+ — the institute's highest distinction. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek, however, did not earn an IIHS Top Safety Pick award under the institute's tightened 2026 testing criteria, which now place greater emphasis on rear-seat occupant protection. Both vehicles earned 5-Star Overall Ratings from NHTSA.
The Mazda CX-30 comes loaded with standard safety technology, including adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims add a head-up display, traffic sign recognition, 360° View Monitor, and Cruising and Traffic Support — an advanced driver-assistance feature for highway driving.
Where the Subaru Crosstrek Has the Edge
In fairness, the Subaru Crosstrek has strengths worth noting. With up to 9.3 inches of ground clearance (versus 8.0 on the Mazda CX-30) and an available Wilderness trim purpose-built for off-road adventures, the Subaru Crosstrek offers more capability on unpaved roads and light trails. With rear seats folded, it also provides more cargo space at 54.7 cubic feet versus 45.2 in the Mazda CX-30. The Subaru Crosstrek also offers slightly better fuel economy and has earned a loyal following.
However, for the vast majority of drivers who spend their time on paved roads — commuting, running errands, and taking highway road trips — the Mazda CX-30's available turbo power, sharper handling, premium cabin, lower price, and superior safety rating make it the more rewarding daily companion.
Experience the Mazda CX-30 Difference
at South Burlington Mazda
The best way to understand the Mazda CX-30's advantage is from behind the wheel. Visit us for a test drive and feel the difference for yourself. Our team is ready to help you find the perfect Mazda CX-30 for your lifestyle and budget.
All specifications based on manufacturer data for the 2026 model year. MSRP excludes destination, taxes, title, license, and dealer fees. Fuel economy based on EPA estimates; actual mileage will vary. IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation based on 2025 IIHS awards applicable to 2025–2026 model year Mazda CX-30. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek did not earn an IIHS Top Safety Pick award under updated 2026 evaluation criteria. NHTSA ratings are subject to change. Vehicle comparisons are based on base trim levels unless otherwise noted. Turbocharged Mazda CX-30 horsepower figure of 250 hp achieved with 93-octane premium fuel (227 hp on regular fuel). See dealer for complete details.
South Burlington Mazda · 1795 Shelburne Road, South Burlington, VT 05403 · Sales: 802-660-6900