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Entry-level Mazda CX-5 or mid-tier CX-30: Which One is For You?

More space or more tech features? You pick.

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Entry-level Mazda CX-5 or mid-tier CX-30: Which One is For You?

The Mazda CX-5 and Mazda CX-30—two closely related compact crossovers which could have a probable rivalry. Both models would often affect the decision of buyers given its close pricing, specifically when you compare the CX-5 2.0 FWD Pro SkyActiv-G with the CX-30 2.0 FWD Sport. While there are some contrasting factors surrounding the two, it is without a doubt that the CX-5 and CX-30 are desirable in their own ways, therefore capturing different customers depending on their wants and needs in a crossover.

Related: Is the Mazda CX-5 worth it?

Comparing the entry-level Mazda CX-5 with the mid-tier CX-30, we look at their price points: both cars retail above P1.7-million pesos. However, the Mazda CX-30 FWD Sport does retail a bit higher than the CX-5 FWD Pro, with the mid-tier CX-30 priced P60,000 more than the entry-level variant of the CX-5. With this in mind, which one of the two would you buy? Are you willing to shell out a few extra bucks for the mid-tier CX-30, or settle with the slightly more affordable CX-5 Pro? In order to help you come up with the right decision, we’ve made a seamless comparison between both models for you to decide whether you want the big bro or the baby bro.

2021 Mazda CX-30 2.0 FWD Sport exterior quarter front Philippines

Like all Mazda vehicles, both models have drool-worthy aesthetics all thanks to the brand’s “KODO: Soul of Motion” design philosophy. It is worth noting, though, that the Mazda CX-30 is one of the first vehicles, including the Mazda3, to feature the latest iteration of the KODO design language. The Mazda CX-5 did age well and still looks rather dashing on its 2021 model year, however, the CX-30 looks a bit edgier than its bigger brother. 

2021 Mazda CX-5 2.0 FWD Pro SkyActiv-G exterior quarter front Philippines

Comparing variant by variant, both the CX-30 FWD Sport and CX-5 FWD Sport come with LED headlights, however, the CX-30 features an adaptive lighting system. Both compact crossovers also get turn signal indicators on the side mirrors and real dual tailpipes. Wheels for the CX-30 are a bit bigger, having a set of 18-inch alloys wrapped in 215/55 tires, while the CX-5 gets slightly smaller 17-inch alloys wrapped in 225/65 rubbers.

In terms of dimensions, the Mazda CX-30 is smaller than the CX-5, with the baby brother measuring 4,395 mm in length, 1,795 mm in width, 1,540 in height, and its wheelbase in 2,655 mm. The CX-5 stretches by about 4,550 mm, its width on the other hand, is 1,840 mm, while the height is 1,675 mm, and its wheelbase is 2,700 mm. Another thing is that the CX-30 sits lower to the ground with 180 mm of ground clearance, the CX-5, on the other hand, sits a bit higher at 188 mm.

2021 Mazda CX-30 2.0 FWD Sport interior dashboard Philippines

Mazda vehicles are known for having great interiors, and this is proven true by the Mazda CX-5 and Mazda CX-30. Inside, both models get a fair share of soft touch materials. The leather also feels plush. The CX-30’s layout is almost identical with the Mazda3, although there are some panels and touches that appear to be different, lending both models a unique distinction. 

2021 Mazda CX-5 interior dashboard Philippines

The CX-5 FWD Pro still has that premium touch and is executed in a black layout. It even gets a floating-type 8-inch touchscreen and Mazda’s rotary knob placed on the center stack used to control the infotainment system. The CX-30 FWD Sport gets a contrasting touch of blue accents applied on the door panels and dashboard. It also gets a floating-type 8.8-inch screen, however, unlike the CX-5’s infotainment system that can be operated both as a touchscreen and through the controls, the CX-30’s head unit cannot be operated as a touchscreen, with the driver and passenger only limited to using the controls.

2021 Mazda CX-30 interior infotainment system Philippines

Going more in-depth with the infotainment system, the CX-30 FWD Sport’s 8.8-inch screen features the latest Mazda Connect System software that presents a different interface. Like most modern vehicles, it also comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Sound is then emitted through an 8-speaker Mazda Harmonic Acoustics audio system.

2021 Mazda CX-5 interior infotainment system Philippines

As for the Mazda CX-5, its 8-inch touchscreen still supports the previous software that is still applied to the majority of the Mazda models available throughout the country. It also still comes ready with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Compared with the mid-tier CX-30, the entry-level CX-5 gets less speakers, with it having only six, but still producing good sound quality.

Other standard features on both models include dual-zone automatic climate control, push start button, and steering wheel-mounted controls. While the CX-5 FWD Pro gets a more traditional gauge cluster, the CX-30 FWD Sport comes with a digital unit instead, for that modern feel.

The CX-5 does have a roomier cabin when compared with the CX-30. We think that the CX-5 is more suitable for families, while the CX-30 appeals more to single professionals and individuals.

2021 Mazda CX-5 interior airbags Philippines

Both models benefit from a set of airbags, six for the CX-5 and seven for the CX-30. Other standard safety and security features on these compact crossovers include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), smart keyless entry along with a push-start button, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and a reversing camera.

2021 Mazda CX-5 exterior quarter rear Philippines

The two siblings carry the same 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G gasoline engine paired with a 6-speed SkyActiv-Drive automatic transmission. Both vehicles put out the same 200 Nm of torque, while horsepower figures, on the other hand, differ. 

2021 Mazda CX-30 exterior side Philippines

The CX-30’s engine churns out 152 hp, while the CX-5 gets a bit more at 154 hp. The horsepower difference is understandable given that the two compact crossovers also differ in size and weight. It’s just a matter of power-to-weight ratio.

Entry-level Mazda CX-5 or mid-tier CX-30: Which One is For You? verdict

Before you consider which vehicle you would gladly park at your garage, the Mazda CX-5 2.0 FWD Pro SkyActiv-G is priced at P1,730,000, while the Mazda CX-30 2.0 FWD Sport retails a bit higher at P1,790,000. Again, that’s quite a small difference. Without a doubt, both compact crossovers are indeed impressive in terms of looks and performance. To simplify your decision making, if you prefer more toys to play with, then you’re better off with the CX-30, but if you’re a bit more concerned with the practicality aspect, then you should pick the CX-5, as it does offer more space.

You really can’t go wrong with either of these two Mazdas, you just have to be clear with your wants and needs in a crossover for you to pick the right one. Simple as that.

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