In the competitive world of compact SUVs, two nameplates stand out for their balance of practicality, affordability, and driving experience: the Toyota Corolla Cross and the Mazda CX-30. These vehicles target similar buyers—young professionals, small families, and commuters—looking for style, reliability, and versatility in a small SUV package. But while they share some goals, their execution differs significantly. In this in-depth comparison, we’ll explore how these compact crossovers stack up against each other across performance, design, interior comfort, technology, safety, and value.

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Performance: Reliability vs. Driving Excitement

Toyota Corolla Cross

• Engine: 2.0-liter 4-cylinder
• Horsepower: 169 hp
• Transmission: CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
• Drivetrain: FWD or AWD
• Fuel Economy: Up to 32 mpg combined

The Toyota Corolla Cross offers a predictable and smooth ride. It’s not designed for sporty performance but rather for ease of use and dependable commuting. The CVT transmission prioritizes fuel efficiency and relaxed acceleration.

Mazda CX-30

• Engine Options: 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (standard) / 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder (optional)
• Horsepower: 191 hp (standard), up to 250 hp (turbo w/ premium fuel)
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic
• Drivetrain: Standard AWD
• Fuel Economy: Up to 29 mpg combined

Mazda continues to live up to its reputation for building fun-to-drive vehicles. The CX-30 is surprisingly agile, especially with the turbocharged engine. The handling feels more responsive than most competitors in this segment, appealing to those who value driving dynamics.

✅ Winner: Mazda CX-30, for its engaging drive and powerful engine options.

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Design: Conservative vs. Expressive

The Corolla Cross takes a pragmatic approach with clean, straightforward lines. It looks like a scaled-up Corolla sedan with SUV proportions—subtle but inoffensive. Mazda, on the other hand, leans into its “Kodo” design language, with the CX-30 offering flowing curves, a sculpted grille, and a more premium appearance.

Dimensions Comparison:

Specification	Toyota Corolla Cross	Mazda CX-30
Overall Length	175.6 in	173.0 in
Width	71.9 in	70.7 in
Height	64.8 in	61.7 in
Wheelbase	103.9 in	104.4 in
Ground Clearance	8.1 in	8.0 in

The Corolla Cross stands taller, offering a more upright SUV feel, while the CX-30 looks lower and sportier. Ground clearance is nearly identical, but the Toyota feels a bit more rugged in presence.

✅ Winner: Mazda CX-30, for its striking design and upscale vibe.

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Interior Comfort and Space: Practicality vs. Premium Feel

Toyota Corolla Cross

• More upright seating position
• Spacious rear seats for the class
• 60/40 split-folding rear seats
• Up to 66.8 cubic feet of cargo space (with seats folded)

Mazda CX-30

• Upscale cabin with premium materials
• Tighter rear-seat space
• Up to 45.2 cubic feet of cargo space (with seats folded)

While the CX-30’s interior materials and finishes are a cut above, the Corolla Cross wins in spaciousness. If cargo and passenger room are a priority—especially for families or road-trippers—the Toyota is the better bet.

✅ Winner: Toyota Corolla Cross, for practicality and room.

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Technology: Simplicity vs. Innovation

Toyota Corolla Cross

• 8-inch touchscreen
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Optional JBL premium audio
• Toyota Audio Multimedia system

Mazda CX-30

• 8.8-inch center display (non-touchscreen, controlled by rotary dial)
• Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Optional Bose 12-speaker sound system
• More modern digital interface but steeper learning curve

While Mazda’s tech setup looks more premium, some users may find Toyota’s more straightforward touchscreen interface easier to use.

✅ Winner: Tie, depending on user preference—Mazda for sleekness, Toyota for ease.

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Safety: Toyota’s Standard Excellence vs. Mazda’s Upgrades

Toyota Corolla Cross

• Toyota Safety Sense 3.0
• Standard adaptive cruise control
• Lane departure alert with steering assist
• Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection

Mazda CX-30

• i-Activsense safety features
• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane-keep assist
• Optional 360° view monitor

Both vehicles offer excellent safety suites, but Toyota includes more as standard across the lineup, while Mazda requires stepping up in trim.

✅ Winner: Toyota Corolla Cross, for its generous standard safety tech.

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Pricing and Value: Affordability vs. Features

Trim Level	Toyota Corolla Cross (MSRP)	Mazda CX-30 (MSRP)
Base Trim	$24,500	$25,000
Mid Trim	$26,800	$27,700
Top Trim	$31,000	$32,500 (Turbo Premium)

Toyota generally offers a lower starting price and more value per dollar at the entry-level. However, Mazda counters with more premium features in higher trims.

✅ Winner: Toyota Corolla Cross, especially for budget-conscious shoppers.

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Reliability and Ownership Experience

Toyota has long held a strong reputation for reliability, and the Corolla Cross is no exception. It’s backed by a solid warranty and widespread dealership support. Mazda has improved in this area, but Toyota still leads in resale value and long-term dependability.

✅ Winner: Toyota Corolla Cross, for proven reliability.

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Final Verdict: Which One Is Right for You?

Category	Winner
Performance	Mazda CX-30
Exterior Design	Mazda CX-30
Interior Space	Toyota Corolla Cross
Technology	Tie
Safety	Toyota Corolla Cross
Value	Toyota Corolla Cross
Reliability	Toyota Corolla Cross

Buy the Toyota Corolla Cross if you want:

• Excellent reliability
• Strong safety features
• More interior space and cargo capacity
• Budget-friendly pricing

Buy the Mazda CX-30 if you want:

• A more thrilling driving experience
• Premium interior and design
• Optional turbocharged power
• Sportier aesthetics

In the compact SUV clash between Toyota and Mazda, the Corolla Cross emerges as the more rational choice—an ideal vehicle for practical-minded buyers. But for those willing to pay a little more for luxury feel and dynamic driving, the CX-30 has undeniable charm.

Either way, you’re looking at two of the best compact SUVs on the market.