2020 Mazda CX-30 vs. 2020 Lexus UX Comparison

While one is mainstream and the other luxury, the 2020 Mazda CX-30, and 2020 Lexus UX are small SUVs that share a stylish, upscale look at relatively affordable prices. Here’s how they compare.

2020 Mazda CX-30

2020 Mazda CX-30 Starting Price: $23,000 | Price Yours or View listings near you 

Above Average: Steering and driving dynamics; standard adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and lane-keep assist; most powerful engine in its class; premium interior

Below Average: Blind-spot monitor and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity don’t come standard; so-so rear visibility.

Consensus: With excellent driving dynamics, beautiful styling inside and out, and a wide array of standard safety and tech all at a low starting price, the Mazda CX-30 is a value buy in the price-sensitive subcompact SUV segment.

2020 Lexus UX

2020 Lexus UX Starting Price: $33,325 | Price Yours or View listings near you

Above Average: Reputation for strong quality and high resale value; excellent hybrid option; standard advanced safety features; tight turning radius.

Below Average: Small interior and cargo area; AWD only available with the hybrid; clunky infotainment controls.

Consensus: Excellent fuel economy and Lexus quality on a very, very small scale. This is definitely an urban take on a small SUV.

CX-30 vs. UX: Urban legends

Mazda CX-30

The CX-30 is Mazda’s second entry in the subcompact SUV segment. It’s larger than the company’s CX-3 and smaller than the CX-5. The 2020 Mazda CX-30 is a stylish, high-value vehicle with a wide array of safety and tech features that come standard. The beautifully crafted interior feels airier than the vehicle’s size would suggest, but tall passengers may feel cramped in the second row. This is arguably the best-driving subcompact SUV on the market today, with excellent ride, handling, and comfort. Fuel economy is a respectable 28 mpg combined in FWD models; adding AWD costs $1,400 extra, but it’s available with every trim level.

Lexus UX

The 2020 Lexus UX is the luxury brand’s smallest crossover. Billed as an “urban explorer,” the UX is offered in two main variants. UX 200 models are front-wheel drive and powered by a 169-horsepower 4-cylinder engine connected to a CVT. The more recommendable UX 250h is a hybrid that includes all-wheel-drive to aid traction at lower speeds and slightly more output of 181 horsepower. Neither model is all that quick, but both showcase Lexus’ comfort and refinement. In the UX, Lexus has been able to bring its trademark refinement to a smaller scale. This small luxury SUV is also very efficient. UX 200 models earn up to 37 mpg and UX 250h hybrids tout up to 41 mpg.

Similarities

City-dwelling SUVs with little off-road capability; available AWD.

Mazda CX-30 Advantages

Excellent ride and handling; more powerful engine; gorgeous design, top-notch interior, some advance driver assists come standard.

Lexus UX Advantages

Fuel efficiency, hybrid variant, luxury badge, comfortable manners.

Final Recommendation

With the Mazda CX-30, you’ll get a fun-to-drive subcompact SUV with an impressive slate of standard equipment. In addition, it starts at a  far lower price than the Lexus. The UX does have the brand’s owner experience, good resale value, and fuel-efficient hybrid model going for it. Still, the CX-30 has enough upscale appeal to deliver nearly the same level of refinement and leave you with plenty of cash to spare.

Ready to buy a Mazda CX-30 or Lexus UX? Shop now for one on sale near you.