Introduction
As the weather gets colder and the roads get busier, subcompact and capable crossovers become the real heroes of every season. Whether you're dashing through the chilly weather conditions or just running last-minute gift errands, both the 2026 Mazda CX-30 and 2026 Nissan Kicks offer the kind of comfort, efficiency, and versatility that make them perfect for modern drivers.
Continue reading our comparison of the new 2026 Mazda CX-30 and the 2026 Nissan Kicks as we highlight features, performance, interior space, and value in these popular subcompact crossover SUVs. From cabin coziness to cargo space for presents, we’ll help you decide which one belongs in your driveway this season: the 2026 Mazda CX-30 or the 2026 Nissan Kicks.
Key Takeaways
- The 2026 Mazda CX-30 is an ideal subcompact crossover SUV for driving in River Valley.
- The Mazda CX-30 has earned a Top Safety Pick+ award and is considered one of the best in its segment by industry experts.
- The 2026 Mazda CX-30 is affordable, fuel-efficient, and an SUV you’ll enjoy driving year after year.
Let’s Compare: 2026 Mazda CX-30 vs. 2026 Nissan Kicks
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 and the 2026 Nissan Kicks are similar in size as subcompact crossover SUVs. While the Mazda CX-30 is longer, the Nissan Kicks offers more ground clearance and interior space for passengers in every seat.
Both the 2026 Mazda CX-30 and the 2026 Nissan Kicks have received IIHS safety ratings as a 2025 Top Safety Pick. However, the Mazda CX-30 outperforms the Nissan Kicks as a Plus pick with higher crashworthiness ratings. The Mazda CX-30 was also picked by Car and Driver as one of the top two best subcompact SUVs of 2025, outranking the Nissan Kicks.
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 and the 2026 Nissan Kicks are both affordable subcompact crossover SUVs that offer incredible features such as large digital displays, advanced safety and driver assistance technology, connectivity, and streaming capabilities. While both offer innovative features like upgraded audio and integrated voice command capabilities, the Nissan Kicks has a larger 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen in its higher trims.
Which subcompact crossover SUV has better gas mileage?
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 and the 2026 Nissan Kicks are affordable subcompact crossover SUVs with impressive gas mileage. When you look at the EPA fuel economy for both the Mazda CX-30 and the Nissan Kicks, you can see that they get over 30 MPG on the highway and over 21 MPG in the city.
The Mazda CX-30 has a larger fuel tank and engine, so you might see slightly better gas mileage with a smaller four-cylinder engine, but not necessarily more fuel efficiency. Depending on the trim, the 2026 Mazda CX-30 has either a SKYACTIV-G 2.5L 4-cylinder with VVT and cylinder deactivation or a SKYACTIV-G41 2.5L dynamic pressure turbo engine that produces 250 horsepower.
Which subcompact crossover SUV is for me?
If you are looking for a new subcompact crossover SUV with a variety of trims with fuel efficiency, that are recognized for their safety features, crashworthiness, and are at the top of their segment, then check out the 2026 Mazda CX-30. The new 2026 Mazda CX-30 is available in eight trims, starting with the base 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S with the 2.5L four-cylinder engine.
2026 Mazda CX-30 Trims:
- Mazda CX-30 2.5 S
- Mazda CX-30 2.5 Select Sport
- Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Preferred
- Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Carbon Edition
- Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Premium
- Mazda CX-30 2.5 Carbon Turbo
- Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Premium
- Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus
From the i-ACTIV all-wheel drive (AWD) with off-road traction assist system and rear power liftgate to the signature LED headlights with adaptive front lighting system, LED daytime running lights, rain-sensing wipers, and windshield wiper de-icer, the 2026 Mazda CX-30 is equipped for all seasons and any weather condition.
The 2026 Mazda MX-30 interior is comfortable, offering enough space for five people and cargo, including bags, groceries, and essentials for daily life. The 2026 Mazda MX-30 comes with Push Button Start, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, heated leather seats, a heated steering wheel, Bose sound system, built-in Alexa, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, USB ports, Bluetooth, wireless phone charger, SiriusXM, Mazda Connected Services, Rear View Monitor, and driver assist technology.
New Year, New Mazda SUV
It’s almost the new year, making it the perfect time to upgrade to the new 2026 Mazda MX-30 subcompact crossover SUV. Check out the affordable trims with impressive features and fuel economy that fit your budget. Visit Cogswell Motors today for new and used vehicles in River Valley. Wishing your family a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year from our Cogswell Motors family, serving all of River Valley.