I’m looking for a smaller used SUV for under 23k. I feel like the Honda CRV is too big, and the Toyota Rav4 is a bit expensive. Now, I’m torn between the CX30 and the CX5. The CX5 is in my price range, but I really don’t want to choose it unless it’s a lot better than the CX30. I don’t have kids, but I do a lot of craft fairs and currently, my Chevy sedan can hold everything. But I need a bit more space. So my main question is: Is the CX30 bigger than a sedan? How’s the cargo space? And, is the CX5 that much better than the CX30?
Test drive both and pick the one that feels right for you!
Keagan said:
Test drive both and pick the one that feels right for you!
Great advice! Just so you know, the CX-30 is made in Mexico while the CX-5 is built in Japan.
If you don’t have kids and don’t plan to, the CX-30 might be a better option for you.
Marlow said:
If you don’t have kids and don’t plan to, the CX-30 might be a better option for you.
Maybe in a few years, but definitely not soon. My main concern is cargo space for my folding tables and craft fair decor.
@Vance
If extra space is really important to you, the CX-5 might be better. The CX-30 is probably about the same as your sedan in terms of space.
Jo said:
The CX-30 has a nicer interior and is more fun to drive. If you need more space, though, the CX-5 is the way to go. Otherwise, go with the CX-30.
Would you say the CX-30 has more space than a sedan?
@Vance
No, it’s about the same as a small sedan.
@Vance
What Chevy sedan do you have? If it’s a Cruze or Malibu, the CX-30 is comparable. If you have an Impala, it’ll feel a lot smaller.
Blaise said:
@Vance
What Chevy sedan do you have? If it’s a Cruze or Malibu, the CX-30 is comparable. If you have an Impala, it’ll feel a lot smaller.
I have a Cruze! I picked it because it has a huge trunk and decent back passenger room. It’s definitely bigger than my SO’s Civic.
@Vance
The CX-30 is smaller. The CX-5 has better visibility and comfort.
@Vance
I wouldn’t say the CX-30 has a lot more room than a Mazda 3.
@Vance
No, the CX-30 is built on the same frame as the Mazda 3. It’s a Mazda 3, just a little higher up with a bit more storage space. I have 3 kids, and my wife drives a Kia Telluride for our family. I use the CX-30 as my work car. It fits my kids in the back if we need it, but it’s not something I would choose for a family car. For my work car, it’s perfect. If you need more space, though, I’d suggest going bigger.
@Vance
I can fit 8-foot 2x4 lumber into a CX-3. I prefer SUVs over sedans because I haul bigger things sometimes. I have a 2017 CX-3 and a 2021 CX-5. The CX-5 is quieter on the freeway. The CX-3 and CX-5 are similar in fun-to-drive feel, but both can shake a bit at low speeds. The CX-5 has firmer seats, which is okay for me but not for everyone.
The CX-30 feels cramped, even though the interior looks nicer. I test drove one before I chose the CX-5. I’m 5’6, and I had to duck to get out of the back seat. It was uncomfortable.
Sage said:
The CX-30 feels cramped, even though the interior looks nicer. I test drove one before I chose the CX-5. I’m 5’6, and I had to duck to get out of the back seat. It was uncomfortable.
We had one in our body shop recently. I kept hitting my head on the pillar!
@Keenan
Haha, I did the same thing at my shop. Went to take the final pictures for the insurance, and I smashed my head on the way out. 
Go for the CX-5. The CX-30 has very little cargo space.
Jaden said:
Go for the CX-5. The CX-30 has very little cargo space.
I don’t need a huge amount of space, just a little more than what I have in my sedan.
Jaden said:
Go for the CX-5. The CX-30 has very little cargo space.
I don’t need a huge amount of space, just a little more than what I have in my sedan.
I’d go with the CX-5. My fiancée has a 2022 CX-5, and I got a 2023 CX-30. The CX-30 feels nimbler, but the CX-5 is better for long drives and feels much bigger without being huge. I feel a little restricted in the CX-30.