When looking for a new car within your financial limits, you might find that all-wheel drive typically isn't included as a default option. Usually, manufacturers omit this feature or charge extra for it. Nonetheless, some crossover models do offer all-wheel drive as a standard inclusion.
People who often travel through icy, snowy, and muddy conditions will emphasize that having all-wheel drive is crucial. For those looking for an affordable choice, this sadly narrows down the possibilities. However, there’s one model that shines as the most economical crossover featuring standard all-wheel drive.
After examining various choices available, we discovered an SUV that includes all-wheel drive as a standard feature and provides considerable value in multiple aspects. This compact SUV not only boasts appealing aesthetics but also delivers great driving pleasure. Additionally, its interior is impressively arranged, giving off a sense of being crafted by a high-end marque.
To provide you with the latest and most precise details available, I gathered information for this piece from multiple official manufacturer sites as well as reputable resources like the EPA and TopSpeed.
Every model of Mazda’s CX-30 comes equipped with all-wheel drive.
The compact SUV category turns out to be surprisingly competitive, offering numerous top-notch choices. Nonetheless, all-wheel drive often comes as an additional cost or may not even be available. Nevertheless, Mazda has made sure to equip each version of their agile CX-30 with this feature.
2025 Trims and Pricing
The CX-30 isn’t the cheapest subcompact SUV available, nor is it the priciest. Nonetheless, its design and extensive array of standard features make its cost seem reasonable compared to the segment’s entry-level choices. Every model comes with these attributes standard with all-wheel drive It's also a significant advantage.
In 2025, Mazda has introduced several modifications to their compact SUV lineup. These include incorporating an advanced navigation system with real-time traffic information and wireless software upgrades as standard equipment. Additionally, the integration of Amazon Alexa enhances vocal interaction within the vehicle’s entertainment setup. Lastly, customers now have the choice between various exterior colors including Aero Gray Metallic.
Benefits of All-Wheel Drive
One major advantage of all-wheel drive is enhanced traction. With power distributed to every wheel, your vehicle handles slick conditions much more effectively. Those who have attempted driving on snow-covered, muddy, or icy roadways would emphasize that the advantages provided by an all-wheel-drive system are significant and should not be overlooked.
Every Mazda models, including the compact CX-30, assert their sportiness to some degree. The inclusion of all-wheel drive enhances traction, leading to better acceleration. Additionally, since power is more equally dispersed, all-wheel drive further boosts stability and control—key strengths of these smaller Mazdas.
The CX-30 is remarkably agile and a whole lot of fun to drive.
Mazda’s essence has consistently revolved around providing an engaging driving experience. This aspect has always been a primary focus for the Japanese automaker. Despite being a budget-friendly option, the CX-30 does not compromise when it comes to spirited performance. Its all-wheel-drive system significantly contributes to making this small SUV particularly delightful to drive.
Performance Specifications
If you enjoy driving the Mazda 3 hatchback, you’ll likely be pleased by the comparable handling of the higher-set CX-30. manages corners with remarkable flair Even though the standard engine isn't the strongest in its class, it performs notably better when pushed to its limits. The all-wheel-drive system’s superior traction and power allocation significantly enhance its agility and responsiveness during aggressive driving.
If you prefer a bit more sporting flair and have additional funds to invest, Mazda provides a turbocharged variant of the CX-30. This model comes at a higher cost compared to those equipped with the standard engine, yet it delivers significantly better performance. Fueled with premium gas, this version boasts an output of 250 horsepower.
Fuel Economy
The non-turbo version of the CX-30 stands out within its class. Despite having standard all-wheel drive, it competes well against front-wheel-drive competitors. Should you choose the turbocharged variant, you will sacrifice some fuel economy for enhanced performance, though this trade-off isn’t as significant as one might anticipate given the boost in power.
You Receive a Highly LuxuriousInterior at the Cost You Paid
The CX-30 comes equipped standard with all-wheel drive, which adds significant value. We believe that the Japanese manufacturer creates some of the best interiors within the mainstream segment. The company seems intent on establishing itself as an entry-level luxury brand, and this is evident in the design of the CX-30.
Comfort and Cargo
Mazda’s design team is excelling with their creations. The interior of the CX-30 boasts an elegant look along with remarkable craftsmanship. They’ve managed to strike an excellent equilibrium between contemporary style and functionality. The dashboard maintains a spacious feel without sacrificing essential manual buttons and knobs within easy reach.
The interior space might be the only aspect where the CX-30 may not shine as brightly. While the driver and front passenger will find ample room, backseat passengers could feel cramped due to limited legroom. Additionally, this model has less cargo volume compared to many of its competitors in the subcompact SUV segment.
Infotainment and Technology
We genuinely value how Mazda has integrated the infotainment system into the CX-30. The display rises above the dashboard without overwhelming the interior design; however, it’s sufficiently sized to avoid distracting you from more critical aspects of driving. Notably, these screens aren’t undersized compared to competitors: basic versions include an 8.8-inch screen, whereas turbocharged variants boast a larger 10.3-inch touchscreen.
This year’s enhancements to Mazda's infotainment system will certainly boost its appeal significantly. It comes equipped with Amazon Alexa integration along with standard support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Users have multiple ways to interact with the system: they can use voice commands, touch controls, or operate it via a rotary dial located on the central console.
If you're seeking an alternative, the Subaru Crosstrek is an outstanding choice.
Just like we discussed earlier, all-wheel drive is often seen as an upscale feature in this market. Options within your budget tend to be sparse, but Subaru provides a solid choice when you're looking for something geared towards adventure rather than performance. Instead of focusing on cornering prowess, the Crosstrek serves as an affordable vehicle designed for tackling rough terrain.
2025 Trims and Pricing
The Crosstrek begins at just a few hundred dollars above the CX-30, and each version includes Subaru’s renowned all-wheel-drive system. For the 2024 model year, it received a complete redesign, which the Japanese manufacturer executed impressively well.
While it might not match the raw capability of some of Subaru’s bigger models or other off-road specialists, it remains one of the most competent options available within its price range. Although it isn’t ready for challenges like Death Valley just yet, it handles muddy trails with ease during outdoor adventures.
Performance Specifications
The entry-level version features a 152-horsepower inline-four engine, whereas all other models are equipped with a somewhat bigger and stronger variant. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is included as standard across the range; however, only trims above the base level include an eight-speed manual mode along with steering-wheel mounted paddles for shifting.
The Crosstrek provides a smooth ride on paved roads but doesn’t handle with the same agility as some competitors. Nevertheless, it excels when venturing into less-traveled areas. With its robust all-wheel-drive system and an impressive 8.7 inches of ground clearance, it is well-equipped for challenging terrain. The Wilderness trim Furthermore, it comes equipped with all-terrain tires and has an increased ground clearance of 9.3 inches.