The 2026 Mazda CX-30 and Chevrolet Trailblazer are stylish, affordable subcompact SUVs. They offer ample room and a bevy of upgrades; these models are worth investigating if you are in the market for a small SUV.
Let’s see how the CX-30 and Trailblazer compare.
2026 Mazda CX-30
The CX-30 flashes a sporty attitude with a sharper sense of style than many rivals. It is an engaging companion on the road, especially when the driving gets a bit more spirited.
Mazda CX-30 Highlights
High-fashion Aire trim: Mazda introduced the Aire trim for both non‑turbo and turbo CX‑30 models, adding black wheels, unique badging, roof rails, black mirror caps, and a nameplate. Inside, the non‑turbo version gets a lighter cabin with white faux‑leather and gray cloth inserts, while the Aire Turbo upgrades to gray faux‑suede inserts.
Upscale cabin for the price: The CX-30 is feature-rich and includes many standard options. The 8.8-inch display with integrated Apple CarPlay and Android Auto lets you play your favorite tunes through Mazda’s Harmonic Acoustics eight-speaker sound system. You also get dual USB-C ports, a 7-inch LCD multi-information display, push-button start, a remote keyless illuminated entry system, and climate control. It’s an upscale package in an affordable segment.
Fun driving dynamics: We’ve said it before, and we will say it again, Mazda has great driving tech. G-Vectoring Control Plus improves cornering by allowing each wheel to brake independently, minimizing body roll. For 2026, Mazda introduces a new brake-limited-slip differential on all CX-30 models, improving overall traction and stability, especially in slippery conditions. All-wheel drive (AWD) is standard, giving drivers confidence in nearly any driving situation.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see CX-30 models near you.
2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer
There are only minor updates to the 2026 Trailblazer. Two new paint colors, Apex Red and White Sands, replace Crimson and Nitro Yellow Metallic. A tire inflator kit replaces a spare tire and jack as standard equipment.
Chevrolet Trailblazer Highlights
Stylish Activ trim: If you want the bells and whistles, the Activ trim would be our pick. It comes standard with all-wheel drive (AWD), heated front seats, an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and the ECOTEC 1.3-liter Turbo engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Another thing that sets this trim apart is the available two-tone contrast roof. The Activ trim includes a special off-road suspension system that you don’t find on most subcompact SUVs.
Larger, more advanced screens: The Trailblazer is equipped with an 11-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 8-inch digital instrument cluster is a full-color, customizable display — a rarity in this class. Both displays are flush with the dash, which is visually pleasing.
More space: The Trailblazer has more front headroom and rear legroom than the CX-30. Taller drivers might find it more comfortable. It also offers more cargo space, both with the rear seats in place and with them folded. These are subcompact SUVs to begin with, but small size is less of an issue with the Trailblazer.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see Trailblazer models near you.
Similarities
The Mazda CX-30 and Chevrolet Trailblazer are two similarly priced, stylish subcompacts that offer customization through multiple trim and package options.
New 2026 MAZDA CX-30 Prices
|
Retail Price
|
Fair Purchase Price (92620)
|
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
$27,470 |
$25,900 |
|||
$29,155 |
$27,800 |
|||
$30,785 |
$29,300 |
|||
$31,345 |
$29,800 |
|||
$32,525 |
$31,100 |
|||
$34,735 |
$32,800 |
|||
$35,905 |
$34,300 |
|||
$39,395 |
$37,200 |
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2026 MAZDA CX-30 vehicles and New 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
Specifications
| 2026 MAZDA CX-30 | 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder | 1.2-liter turbo 3-cylinder |
| Towing Capacity | N/A | N/A |
| Horsepower | 186 hp @ 6,000 rpm | 137 hp @ 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm | 162 lb-ft @ 2,500 rpm |
| Transmission | automatic, 6-speed skyactiv-drive sport w/manual mode | Automatic, CVT |
| Fuel Economy | 24 city/31 highway/27 combined mpg | N/A |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | 5 stars | 5 stars |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 104.4 inches | 103.9 inches |
| Overall Length | 173.0 inches | 174.0 inches |
| Width | N/A | 71.2 inches |
| Height | 61.4 inches | 64.2 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 37.4 feet | 37.3 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 38.1 inches | 40.0 inches |
| Headroom, 2nd Row | 38.3 inches | 38.4 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 41.7 inches | 40.9 inches |
| Legroom, 2nd Row | 36.3 inches | 39.0 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 55.6 inches | 55.4 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 2nd Row | 53.6 inches | 53.8 inches |
| Cargo Behind Second Seat | N/A | N/A |
| Cargo With All Seats Down | 45.2 feet | 54.4 feet |
Specification table reflects the typical configuration of vehicles shown.
Conclusion
When it comes to driving dynamics, performance, and available premium upgrades, the CX‑30 takes the lead. But for passenger and cargo space, inventive trim options, and strong front-wheel drive (FWD) fuel economy, the Trailblazer comes out ahead.
