In 2023, subcompact SUVs are sometimes essentially the most reasonably priced choice on a dealership lot. That doesn’t imply they really feel low cost. They’ll mix enjoyable driving dynamics with versatile cargo area. And for those who haven’t been automotive procuring in just a few years, you could be stunned on the degree of know-how present in reasonably priced vehicles. From screens that mirror your cellphone display to parking sensors and lane-centering tech, many reasonably priced subcompact SUVs are as high-tech as costlier vehicles.
The Mazda CX-30 and Chevy Trailblazer are compelling choices with comparable value tags. Let’s check out them side-by-side.
2023 Mazda CX-30
Mazda makes handsome vehicles which can be enjoyable to drive. The Mazda CX-30 is its least-expensive product, but it surely nonetheless brings the athleticism and upscale really feel Mazda is understood for. It’s extra highly effective than a lot of this class and presents balanced dealing with that’s enjoyable on a winding street. Pricing begins at $22,950.
Mazda CX-30 Highlights
Customary all-wheel drive (AWD): Once you consider SUVs, you in all probability consider grip in unhealthy climate and on a muddy discipline. However many producers preserve their subcompact SUVs reasonably priced by skimping on the AWD techniques that used to outline the category. Mazda doesn’t. Each CX-30 is AWD, no matter value. All-wheel drive provides $2,000 to the value of most Trailblazers.
Enjoyable driving dynamics: Mazda doesn’t skimp on driving tech, both. Torque vectoring — a system that brakes every wheel individually to assist level the automotive into corners with out a lot physique roll — is commonplace on the CX-30. It’s not even obtainable on the Trailblazer.
Extra energy in each type: The CX-30’s commonplace engine makes 191 horsepower. The Trailblazer’s makes simply 137. A Chevy vendor would in all probability level out right here that you could improve the Trailblazer to a 155-horsepower engine as an alternative. That helps however doesn’t actually make these two equal. And a Mazda vendor might counter by mentioning that CX-30 consumers have an improve choice, too. It’s good for 250 horsepower (with premium gas — 227 with the common stuff).
Verify this week’s Honest Buy Worth or see the Mazda CX-30 fashions on the market close to you.
2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer
The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer takes a distinct method to simply about each side of SUV design. It appears rugged the place the Mazda appears trendy. It makes use of tiny 3-cylinder engines to sip gas (although its numbers are solely barely higher than the CX-30’s). And it beats the CX-30 in just a few key measurements that may make it extra helpful for some drivers. Costs begin at $22,100.
Chevrolet Trailblazer Highlights
Proportioned for taller drivers: Subcompact SUVs aren’t unrealistic for a lot of buyers as a result of they’re so small. The Trailblazer, although, beats the CX-30 on headroom and may make a greater match for some drivers.
Extra cargo area: Mazda’s curvy designs look fairly however restrict cargo area. The Chevy’s extra rugged, boxy look has a sensible profit — 5.1 extra cubic toes of area behind the seats and 9.2 extra with them folded. For those who’re undecided a subcompact might carry what you want it to hold, your odds are higher on this one.
Sporty-looking RS trim: Many observers discover the CX-30 higher wanting, however Chevy’s RS trim brings that into query. It provides distinctive 18-inch high-gloss wheels, a contrast-color roof (purple or black relying on paint shade), sharp-looking LED hind lights, and the choice of a blackout package deal that provides fashionable black emblems and nameplates.
Verify this week’s Honest Buy Worth or see the Chevrolet Trailblazer fashions on the market close to you.
Similarities
These two carry comparable value tags, the identical guarantee protection, and equal five-star security scores.
Conclusion
Many drivers could be blissful in a Chevrolet Trailblazer — particularly these a little bit taller than common. Its rugged look and spectacular cargo capability are sturdy promoting factors. However indisputably, the Mazda CX-30 is extra enjoyable to drive. Its added energy provides extra peace of thoughts, particularly in case your common driving entails hills, mountains, or passing on the freeway. And it has a splash of added driving enjoyable that the majority subcompact SUVs can’t reply/
Specs:
| 2023 Mazda CX-30 | 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer | |
| Beginning Worth | $22,950 | $22,100 |
| Well-liked Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder | 1.2-liter 3-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 191 hp @ 6,000 rpm | 137 hp @ 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm | 162 lb-ft @ 2,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed automated | CVT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Gas economic system | 26 metropolis/33 freeway/29 mixed mpg | 29 metropolis/31 freeway/30 mixed mpg |
| Additionally Out there | 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder | 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder; AWD |
| Specs | ||
| Primary Guarantee | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Guarantee | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/50,000 miles |
| NHTSA Total Security Score | TBD | 5 stars |
| Max Seating Capability | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 104.4 inches | 104 inches |
| Total Size | 173.0 inches | 173.5 inches |
| Width | 70.7 inches | 71.2 inches |
| Peak | 61.7 inches | 65.2 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 37.3 toes | 36.8 toes |
| Headroom, Entrance | 38.1 inches | 40.0 inches |
| Headroom, Rear | 38.3 inches | 38.4 inches |
| Legroom, Entrance | 41.7 inches | 40.9 inches |
| Legroom, Rear | 36.3 inches | 39.4 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Entrance | 55.6 inches | 55.4 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Rear | 53.6 inches | 53.8 inches |
| Cargo Quantity | 20.2/45.2 cubic toes | 25.3/54.4 cubic toes |