2027 Mazda CX-30 vs. 2027 Mazda CX-5: Which Mazda SUV Is Right for You?

Mazda builds two SUVs that sit close together in the lineup and share a lot of strengths. The 2027 CX-30 and the 2027 CX-5 both come with standard i-Activ AWD, both nameplates hold an IIHS 2026 TOP SAFETY PICK+ award, and both run a 2.5 L 4-cylinder engine on regular fuel. That makes the choice a pleasant one, since either way you get a well-equipped Mazda.

The difference comes down to size, space and the kind of driving you do most. The CX-30 is the smaller, more agile of the two, with an available turbocharged engine. The CX-5 is the roomier family SUV with the larger screen and the bigger cargo area. This guide lays out the numbers so you can match the right one to your needs.

At a Glance: 2027 CX-30 vs. 2027 CX-5

Size and Manoeuvrability

The CX-30 is 295 mm shorter than the CX-5 and 122 mm lower. Its 10.6 m turning circle makes tight parkades, narrow lanes and parallel parking easier. If most of your driving happens in the city, that smaller footprint is something you will appreciate every day.

The CX-5 uses its extra length well. Its wheelbase is 163 mm longer, which gives a settled ride on the highway and more room inside. Both SUVs sit at nearly the same height off the ground, with 203 mm of clearance for the CX-30 and 204 mm for the CX-5, so neither one gives up capability on rough or snowy roads.

Passenger and Cargo Space

Here the two models separate clearly. The CX-5 offers 954 L of cargo space behind the rear seats and 1,882 L with them folded. The CX-30 offers 572 L and 1,280 L. For strollers, hockey bags or a big grocery run, the CX-5 has the clear edge.

Rear passengers get more room in the CX-5 too, with 1,012 mm of legroom compared with 922 mm in the CX-30. Its rear seat reclines and splits 40/20/40. The CX-30 still seats five and works well for couples, small families and anyone who uses the back seat only some of the time.

• CX-30: 572 L of cargo space, 922 mm of rear legroom
• CX-5: 954 L of cargo space, 1,012 mm of rear legroom
• CX-5 towing capacity: 680 kg (1,500 lbs)

Engines and Efficiency

Both models start with a Skyactiv-G 2.5 L 4-cylinder engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission. In the CX-30 it produces 186 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque. In the CX-5 it produces 187 hp and 186 lb-ft. Combined fuel consumption is 8.7 L/100 km for the CX-30 and 9.0 L/100 km for the CX-5.

The CX-30 adds a second option. The GT Turbo and GT Kuro use a Skyactiv-G 2.5 L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium 93 octane fuel, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular 87 octane fuel. For drivers who want strong acceleration in a compact package, this is the one to drive.

Every trim of both SUVs has i-Activ AWD and G-Vectoring Control Plus. The CX-30 adds Off-Road Traction Assist, and the CX-5 has Mi-Drive with Normal, Sport and Off-Road modes.

Technology and Comfort

The CX-5 leads on screen size. Every trim has a 12.9-inch centre touchscreen with Google built-in and a 10.25-inch driver display. The GT can be equipped with a 15.6-inch touchscreen, a panoramic moonroof, ventilated front seats and heated rear outboard seats.

The CX-30 keeps things simple with an 8.8-inch display on the GX and a 10.25-inch display from the GS up, controlled by the Mazda Connect commander knob. The GS adds a heated steering wheel, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and wireless phone charging. The GT brings leather seats, a power liftgate and a 360° View Monitor. Heated front seats are standard on both models from the first trim.

• CX-30 highlights: 10.25-inch display from GS, Kuro Edition styling, available Bose 12-speaker audio
• CX-5 highlights: 12.9-inch touchscreen with Google built-in, available 15.6-inch touchscreen, Bose 12-speaker audio on GT

Which Model Is Right for You?

Choose the 2027 CX-30 if you drive mostly in the city, park in tight spots and rarely fill the back seat. It is also the pick for drivers who want turbocharged power, with 250 hp on premium fuel.

Choose the 2027 CX-5 if you carry passengers often, need room for bulky cargo or take long highway trips. Its larger cabin, 954 L cargo area and 12.9-inch touchscreen suit a busy household.

Either way, you get standard i-Activ AWD, i-Activsense safety features and Mazda's unlimited mileage warranty.

Compare Both at Metrotown Mazda

The easiest way to settle it is to sit in both, fold the seats and take each one for a drive. Visit Metrotown Mazda in Burnaby to compare the CX-30 and CX-5 back to back. Our team will go through trims and features with you and help you land on the right fit.