2023 Mazda CX-30 vs. 2023 Nissan Kicks Comparison

For the 2023 model 12 months, there are only a handful of vehicles obtainable with value tags underneath $25,000. The cheap new automobile is a rarity. However there are nonetheless a couple of obtainable that can serve you nicely for a few years with out breaking the financial institution. They’re principally subcompact SUVs.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 could be the most fun-to-drive possibility of that group. However the Nissan Kicks has spectacular cargo area and a dose of character which may enchantment otherwise. Let’s evaluate them.

2023 Mazda CX-30

Amongst mainstream automobile manufacturers, Mazda is the crucial darling. Automotive journalists who drive dozens of vehicles a 12 months have a tendency to like Mazda’s taut-handling vehicles with interiors that really feel upscale for the value. The 2023 Mazda CX-30 is its least-expensive SUV. If you wish to love driving and never spend a lot, this could possibly be the appropriate automobile for you. Pricing begins at $22,950.

Mazda CX-30 Highlights

Commonplace all-wheel drive (AWD): Mazda makes grippy, winter-friendly all-wheel drive (AWD) normal on each one among its SUVs for 2023. Nissan doesn’t even supply it on the Kicks. For those who dwell the place it routinely snows, that issue alone may make this resolution for you.

These Mazda street manners: The key ingredient in Mazda sauce is torque vectoring. A expertise often reserved for luxurious vehicles, it brakes every wheel individually to assist level the automobile into corners with out a lot physique roll. It’s normal on the CX-30, and albeit, it’s surprising to seek out it at this value.

Extra energy in each kind: Nissan skimped on energy to get the Kicks’ value down. Our check driver described its 122-horsepower engine as “lackluster.” Mazda sells the CX-30 with both a 191-horsepower 4-cylinder or a turbocharged model with 250 horses (with premium gas — 227 with common).

Verify this week’s Truthful Buy Worth or see the Mazda CX-30 fashions on the market close to you.

2023 Nissan Kicks

Nissan solutions with spunk and area. The 2023 Nissan Kicks lacks an AWD possibility however saves you cash with a low up-front value and nice gas financial system, and brings extra cargo area than most subcompacts and nice (obtainable) two-tone styling as a replacement. The Kicks begins at simply $20,440.

Nissan Kicks Highlights

Numerous automobile for the cash: The Kicks nearly slips underneath the $20,000 line – an actual rarity within the 2023 model 12 months. For that low value, you get a brand new automobile underneath guarantee, smartphone integration, superior security options, and a enjoyable perspective.

Roomy cabin: Shopping for a automobile this small may fear you, however the Kicks has you coated. It has extra cargo area behind the rear seats than the CX-30, and it beats the CX-30 in headspace, too – a consideration for taller customers.

Gas financial system: Nissan gave the Kicks a small engine, front-wheel drive, and a constantly variable transmission. That mixture is nice at one factor – gas financial system. The EPA estimates that Kicks drivers might spend as little as $1,650 in annual gas prices. CX-30 drivers can count on to spend $1,850 or $2,150, relying on which engine they select.

Verify this week’s Truthful Buy Worth or see the Nissan Kicks fashions on the market close to you.

Similarities

The CX-30 and the Kicks each carry sticker costs underneath $25,000 and equivalent warranties.

Conclusion

Neither the Mazda CX-30 nor the Nissan Kicks will depart your pockets hurting. However, past value, they’ve very completely different virtues.

The CX-30 is enjoyable to drive, extra highly effective, and consists of normal AWD. That makes it a funds selection for driving fans and an important selection for many who take care of snowy roads. The Nissan Kicks is cheaper and provides enjoyable styling and more room at a decrease beginning value.

Specs