What's the difference?
If you’re in the market for a city- and family-friendly compact SUV, you’re in luck.
The small SUV segment is one of the most heavily populated and hotly contested in the Aussie new-car market and the Mazda CX-30 G25 GT SP FWD is pitched against a seething pack of at least 10 similarly sized, generously specified and highly-credentialed competitors.
So, stay with us on a mission to determine whether this high-end version of one of Mazda’s best sellers is worthy of a spot on your new-car short list.
Among the many strange new car brands and names we're increasingly confronted with Subaru is an established and trusted beacon along with Honda, Hyundai, Mazda and Toyota. And Subaru’s Crosstrek SUV competes against rivals such as the Honda HR-V, Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-30 and Toyota Corolla Cross.
So, what does the Crosstrek give you for your money and what’s different or better about the Crosstrek compared to those rivals?
We tested the mid-grade Crosstrek 2.0S and rediscovered what this small SUV does so well and what could probably be improved.
About to enter its fifth year in market the Mazda CX-30 is holding up well and this GT SP FWD grade delivers solid value relative to its key competitors, of which there are many. Itโs also space-efficient, practical and performs well with top-shelf safety, decent refinement and good dynamic ability.
Alternately, itโs crying out for a hybrid powertrain to improve fuel efficiency, the interior form and function is starting to date and while it meets the market the ownership promise could be sharper. But this little SUV is still worthy of a spot on your new-car short list.
The Crosstrek is good to drive with great ground clearance and an excellent all-wheel drive system for light off-road adventures. Iโm also a fan of the styling and features for the money. But The letdowns comes in the form of limited boot space and cabin storage, a short warranty and pricey servicing. Still, itโs great to see Subaru has updated the car's safety systems, the most important part of any car.