CX-30 SUV part of a class of Mazda's small wonders

Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews also can be seen in the Northern & Central California Cruisin’ News magazine published monthly out of Folsom, California.

Sacramento, California -- Has anyone else noticed that Mazda is making some very nice, affordable, small vehicles these days?

Well, it's true.  Exhibit A for today is the recently tested 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo, which also featured the automaker's Premium Plus Package and all-wheel drive.

This subcompact crossover sport-utility vehicle is an attractive mix of style, features, performance and value.

And it's just attractive to look at, with a long hoodline and aerodynamically efficient roofline.

You might have a difficult time convincing the neighbors that this is an SUV as it could almost pass for a compact sport sedan. Even better, it handles like one, with a tight turning radius and just-right steering that can be handled with a thumb-index finger grip.

Past critics of the CX-30 have knocked the 2.5-liter engine rated at 186 horsepower.  Oomph was not a concern on the tester, with the 2.5-liter turbo engine rated at 227 horsepower and 310 foot-pounds of torque.  This power plant propels the CX-30 in and out of tight spots with ease.  It's downright robust, but fuel mileage is surprisingly good at 22 miles per gallon in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

Freeway cruising is a silky smooth breeze, giving one an opportunity to sample the luxury-level comfort and convenience amenities.

On my tester, that included leather surfaces, an easy-to-read 8.8-inch color display screen and a 12-speaker Bose audio system.  That was topped off by a generous helping of solid safety/security technology.

Safety and security are further emphasized in the five-star federal crash test ratings, including a max overall vehicle score.

All in all, it's an impressive package that you might expect to be in the $40,000 to $45,000 range.  But the bottom line on the tester's sticker was a very reasonable $35,400.

That's a number to remember in this era of COVID concerns, which include value for one's hard-earned dollars.  To that end, the CX-30 offers customer-pleasing amenities, strong performance and daily driver convenience/utility for far less than what you'd pay for a midsize or full-size SUV.

In other words, the CX-30 might just be the smart compromise vehicle you're looking for. It certainly deserves a place on a short list of possible compact SUV purchases.