Compared: 2024 Mazda 3 Sedan vs. 2024 Mazda CX-30
The CX-30 SUV's practicality may trump the lower cost of the Mazda 3.
Mazda
There's a lot to like about Mazda's small-car offerings. They look sharp, offer plenty of equipment, and are fun to drive. If you're in the market for an affordable new Mazda in 2024, you may find yourself caught between two solid options.
The Mazda 3 sedan is the automaker's cheapest option, while the 2024 Mazda CX-30 is more popular and offers an SUV shape. The two vehicles aren't far from each other in terms of pricing and performance, but there are differences that may matter to buyers trying to choose between the two.
Mazda
The CX-30 Is Pricier
The 2024 Mazda 3 Sedan starts around $25,000 for the basic 2.5 S model. It's available in multiple trims, with the $30,000 2.5 S Carbon featuring standard all-wheel drive (AWD), leather-trimmed seats, and support for wireless phone projection.
Those who want power on a budget might find the $33,000 2.5 Carbon Turbo appealing, while the $37,000 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus could be right for a buyer who wants the top-trim version.
Mazda
The 2024 CX-30 is slightly more expensive, starting at $26,000 for the base 2.5 S. However, the CX-30 comes with standard AWD, while entry-level Mazda 3s feature front-wheel drive.
As with the Mazda 3 sedan's version, the CX-30 2.5 S Carbon Edition trim is a reasonably equipped option with leather-trimmed seats and a wireless phone charger. It costs about $31,000. There are a few more upscale choices, too, including the $36,000 Turbo Premium and the fully loaded $38,000 Turbo Premium Plus, which includes more high-tech safety features.
Mazda
The CX-30 Offers More Space
Many shoppers comparing these two small vehicles may want to know which one offers the most for their buck. If interior space is a priority, the CX-30 is likely the better choice. It offers more rear seat space, more passenger volume, and more cargo space compared with the Mazda 3 sedan. Beyond that, both cars come with standard push-button start, an 8.8-inch infotainment system, LED headlights, and 16-inch wheels.
Mazda
Optional equipment available for both cars includes wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, a larger 10.3-inch infotainment screen, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a 360-degree parking camera.
Mazda
Same Engines but Different Fuel Economy
The two small Mazdas feature the same engine choices: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder making 191 horsepower or a 250-hp 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. That listed output is for premium fuel. Using 87 octane drops the output to 227 horsepower.
Mazda
The Mazda 3 FWD is slightly more fuel efficient than the CX-30, returning an EPA-rated 27/37/31 mpg in city/highway/combined driving. The Mazda 3 AWD is good for 26/35/30 mpg, while the turbocharged AWD Mazda 3 ekes out 23/32/27 mpg.
The base CX-30 is EPA rated for 26/33/29 mpg. The turbocharged CX-30 is estimated at 22/30/25 mpg.
All vehicle pricing includes MSRP plus destination charges (set at the time of publication), and will be rounded to the nearest thousand.
Written by humans.
Edited by humans.
Sami Haj-AssaadSami Haj-Assaad is an award-winning automotive journalist who has contributed to several automotive, electric vehicle, luxury lifestyle, and technology publications. His work isn't just limited to the written word, as he's also hosted YouTube videos and podcasts. Having grown up in the '90s, he has a strong sense of attachment to that era's style, though he also loves to geek out about the modern, futuristic tech and powertrains rolling out today.
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