Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2020 Mazda CX-30
With an overall Carivo score of 8.0/10, the 2020 Mazda CX-30 earns a Recommended rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 8.4/10, while Performance at 7.0/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability comes in at 8.4/10 in our assessment — above the middle of the pack for this class, though not flawless. On safety it earns 8.4/10: respectable, if not class-leading — several competitors bundle more driver-assist tech as standard. Check your trim's official ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance lands mid-pack at 7.0/10: enough power and composure for everyday needs, without the dynamics that distinguish the segment's driver-focused options. Technology comes in at 7.7/10 — functional and modern, with wireless connectivity and core ADAS features, though some competitors pack more standard tech at this price point.
Priced from $21,995–$29,092, 26 MPG, seating 5, the Mazda CX-30 sits in the budget-friendly tier of the suv market. The 8.2/10 value score is the headline: relative to what it costs, this suv delivers more than most of the class. At 6 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Bottom line: Think of the 2020 Mazda CX-30 as the dependable pick rather than the exciting one. Shoppers who value predictability over headlines will be well served.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2020 Mazda CX-30 ranks #180 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 93% of the segment. Its 8.0/10 overall score is 0.6 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $21,995 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $36,079 by about 39%.
$0 — 3 campaigns on record; recall work is always free at franchised dealers
Insurance
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which CX-30 Year Should You Buy?
Across the CX-30 model years we've scored, the 2020 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Above-average reliability record with solid owner satisfaction data
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
Accessible entry price makes it one of the more affordable options in the category
✗ Where it falls short
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Brand resale values vary — check current market data before committing
NHTSA Recalls — 2020 Mazda CX-30 (3 on record)
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle with our free VIN recall checker.
Structure / Body / Hatchback/liftgate 18/02/2021 · 21V086000
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2020-2021 CX-30 vehicles. When fully opened, the power liftgate may partially lower unexpectedly when the vehicle is parked facing uphill on a slope.
Service brakes, hydraulic / Foundation components / Disc / Caliper 12/06/2020 · 20V346000
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2020 CX-30 and Mazda3 vehicles. The front brake caliper mounting bolts may not have been tightened properly during assembly, possibly allowing the calipers to loosen.
Mazda North American Operations (Mazda) is recalling certain 2020 CX-30 vehicles equipped with all-wheel drive. The evaporative vent hose for the fuel tank may be disconnected, possibly allowing fuel to leak from the charcoal canister vent at the rear of…
Source: NHTSA recall database, fetched at page build time.
Own a 2020 Mazda CX-30 that's been repaired repeatedly for the same problem? It may qualify under your state's lemon law — run the free lemon law check →
Common Questions — 2020 Mazda CX-30
Is the 2020 Mazda CX-30 reliable?
We rate the 2020 Mazda CX-30's reliability 8.4/10 — one of the stronger records in its class. It has 3 NHTSA recall campaigns on record for this model year (details in the recalls section above — repairs are free at dealers).
How many recalls does the 2020 Mazda CX-30 have?
3 NHTSA recall campaigns matched this model and year as of our latest check. Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is the 2020 Mazda CX-30 worth buying?
It scores 8.0/10 overall, ranking #180 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 93% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2020 Mazda CX-30 cost?
The 2020 Mazda CX-30 starts at $21,995 and ranges up to $29,092 across trims (MSRP when new). At 26 MPG, expect roughly $2,019/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which CX-30 years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 7 CX-30 model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (8.3/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
What problems does the 2020 Mazda CX-30 have?
The documented issues for the 2020 Mazda CX-30 are its NHTSA recall campaigns, which involve: Structure, Service brakes, hydraulic, Fuel system, gasoline (details in the recalls section above; repairs are free at dealers). For wear-and-tear patterns beyond recalls, owner forums are the best source — we only report what federal data documents.
Owner Essentials — Mazda CX-30
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