Pre-Owned Mazda CX-30: Three Engines, One Choice to Make
The Mazda CX-30 is a highly interesting subcompact SUV and, although it is only now in its third year on the market, we are already finding a good number of used units for sale. It is, therefore, possible to get a hold of a like new 2020 or 2021 CX-30 with very little mileage and wear.
The biggest question for buyers is which engine to choose! The CX-30 proposes three different options under the hood, which is quite rare among this line. To help you see them more clearly, let's review each option.
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First of all, the base CX-30 GX uses a four-cylinder, 2.0-litre naturally aspirated engine, which produces 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. This power is transmitted to the front wheels or all four wheels for the 2020 and 2021 models (Mazda has only included i-Activ standard all-wheel-drive starting from the 2022 model). The average fuel consumption ratings are 8.1 - 8.3 L/100 km.
Next, there is the four-cylinder, 2.5-litre naturally aspirated engine of the GS and GT versions, which generates 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. These are gains of 20% and 25%, respectively. Compared with the basic engine, the average fuel consumption climbs to around 0.5 L/100 km. Attention: if all the CX-30 GT models possess all-wheel-drive, the same cannot be said of the GS models, since this is an available option.
Finally, for 2021, Mazda added a turbocharged variant of the 2.5-litre engine. Though much rarer to find on the used market at present, this option reaches 227 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. With premium gasoline (93 octane), these numbers increase to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive is, of course, on the program and consumption rises to 9.3 L/100 km.
It is important to also consider the fact that 2.5-litre engines are accompanied with a greater number of features as well as different characteristics, such as nicer rims, additional security systems, etc.
The 2.5-litreengine is sufficient if you are not the type to be in a hurry on the road, but it won't provide you with any real feeling and you may find it quite noisy. The 2.5-litre naturally aspirated engine is the most balanced choice and won't cause you any mechanical issues. Its additional horsepower provides a much smoother ride. Regarding the turbocharged engine, it's a performance wonder. Although premium gas is not mandatory, it is highly recommended to maximize the performance and long-term health of the engine. By the way, more rigorous maintenance is required with this powerful CX-30.
Happy shopping!