In 2023, subcompact SUVs are often the most affordable option on a dealership lot. That doesn’t mean they feel cheap. They can combine fun driving dynamics with flexible cargo space. And if you haven’t been car shopping in a few years, you might be surprised at the level of technology found in affordable cars. From screens that mirror your phone screen to parking sensors and lane-centering tech, many affordable subcompact SUVs are as high-tech as more expensive cars.
The Mazda CX-30 and Chevy Trailblazer are compelling options with similar price tags. Let’s take a look at them side-by-side.
2023 Mazda CX-30
Mazda makes good-looking cars that are fun to drive. The Mazda CX-30 is its least-expensive product, but it still brings the athleticism and upscale feel Mazda is known for. It’s more powerful than much of this class and offers balanced handling that’s fun on a winding road. Pricing starts at $22,950.
Mazda CX-30 Highlights
Standard all-wheel drive (AWD): When you think of SUVs, you probably think of grip in bad weather and on a muddy field. But many manufacturers keep their subcompact SUVs affordable by skimping on the AWD systems that used to define the class. Mazda doesn’t. Every CX-30 is AWD, regardless of price. All-wheel drive adds $2,000 to the price of most Trailblazers.
Fun driving dynamics: Mazda doesn’t skimp on driving tech, either. Torque vectoring — a system that brakes each wheel individually to help point the car into corners without much body roll — is standard on the CX-30. It’s not even available on the Trailblazer.
More power in every form: The CX-30’s standard engine makes 191 horsepower. The Trailblazer’s makes just 137. A Chevy dealer would probably point out here that you can upgrade the Trailblazer to a 155-horsepower engine instead. That helps but doesn’t really make these two equivalent. And a Mazda dealer could counter by pointing out that CX-30 buyers have an upgrade option, too. It’s good for 250 horsepower (with premium fuel — 227 with the regular stuff).
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Mazda CX-30 models for sale near you.
2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer
The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer takes a different approach to just about every aspect of SUV design. It looks rugged where the Mazda looks stylish. It uses tiny 3-cylinder engines to sip fuel (though its numbers are only slightly better than the CX-30’s). And it beats the CX-30 in a few key measurements that might make it more useful for some drivers. Prices start at $22,100.
Chevrolet Trailblazer Highlights
Proportioned for taller drivers: Subcompact SUVs aren’t unrealistic for many shoppers because they’re so small. The Trailblazer, though, beats the CX-30 on headroom and might make a better fit for some drivers.
More cargo space: Mazda’s curvy designs look pretty but limit cargo space. The Chevy’s more rugged, boxy look has a practical benefit — 5.1 more cubic feet of space behind the seats and 9.2 more with them folded. If you’re not sure a subcompact could carry what you need it to carry, your odds are better in this one.
Sporty-looking RS trim: Many observers find the CX-30 better looking, but Chevy’s RS trim brings that into question. It adds unique 18-inch high-gloss wheels, a contrast-color roof (red or black depending on paint shade), sharp-looking LED tail lamps, and the option of a blackout package that adds trendy black emblems and nameplates.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Chevrolet Trailblazer models for sale near you.
Similarities
These two carry similar price tags, the same warranty coverage, and equal five-star safety scores.
Conclusion
Many drivers would be happy in a Chevrolet Trailblazer — especially those a little taller than average. Its rugged look and impressive cargo capacity are strong selling points. But without a doubt, the Mazda CX-30 is more fun to drive. Its added power gives more peace of mind, especially if your regular driving involves hills, mountains, or passing on the highway. And it has a dash of added driving fun that most subcompact SUVs can’t answer/
Specifications:
| 2023 Mazda CX-30 | 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer | |
| Starting Price | $22,950 | $22,100 |
| Popular 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 automatic | CVT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel economy | 26 city/33 highway/29 combined mpg | 29 city/31 highway/30 combined mpg |
| Also Available | 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder | 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder; AWD |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/50,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety Rating | TBD | 5 stars |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 104.4 inches | 104 inches |
| Overall Length | 173.0 inches | 173.5 inches |
| Width | 70.7 inches | 71.2 inches |
| Height | 61.7 inches | 65.2 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 37.3 feet | 36.8 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 38.1 inches | 40.0 inches |
| Headroom, Rear | 38.3 inches | 38.4 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 41.7 inches | 40.9 inches |
| Legroom, Rear | 36.3 inches | 39.4 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 55.6 inches | 55.4 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Rear | 53.6 inches | 53.8 inches |
| Cargo Volume | 20.2/45.2 cubic feet | 25.3/54.4 cubic feet |