2025 Ford Explorer vs 2024 Mazda CX-30

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 was designed to stand out with its distinctive styling, characterized by excessive charcoal-colored plastic cladding on the lower body, which some found overwhelming. Despite this, the CX-30 maintained an overall appealing aesthetic with its short overhangs, long and low hood, and sculpted flanks. The interior of the CX-30 was a highlight, offering a level of style and refinement comparable to entry-level luxury SUVs. The gauges were clear, the infotainment screen was seamlessly integrated into the dashboard, and the dual-zone climate controls were elegantly designed.

In contrast, the 2025 Ford Explorer continued to build on its sleek design with a refreshed front end that enhanced its rugged appearance. The rear featured new LED taillights and a trim strip connecting them, adding to its modern look. Inside, the Explorer saw significant improvements in materials and design, making it more competitive in its segment. The reduction in trim levels from eight to four streamlined the options, with each offering distinct features and price points. The Explorer's interior updates made it a more attractive choice for families seeking comfort and style.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30, equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivered 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque, providing smooth acceleration rather than a sudden burst of speed. The power delivery was likened to surfing, with a gradual build-up to a satisfying crescendo. The six-speed automatic transmission shifted flawlessly, and the standard all-wheel-drive system ensured power was distributed effectively. However, the CX-30's fuel economy was less impressive, with an observed 21.3 mpg during testing, and its small fuel tank limited its range. Despite this, the CX-30 was fun to drive, offering nimble handling and excellent visibility.

The 2025 Ford Explorer offered two EcoBoost engine options: a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with 400 horsepower. The 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive were standard, with an optional four-wheel-drive system. The Explorer's turbo four provided quick acceleration, and the 10-speed automatic delivered decisive shifts. The ST-Line trim, focused on aesthetics, could be upgraded with performance features like larger wheels and brakes. The Explorer's handling was commendable, with a firm ride that balanced comfort and control. The V6 engine offered fast acceleration and a pleasant sound, while the four-cylinder's fuel economy was observed at 23.8 mpg.

Inside the 2024 Mazda CX-30, the design was marked by quality materials and logical controls. The three-gauge, partial digital instrumentation was a favorite, and the traditional shifter was easy to use. The cabin featured gloss black trim, metallic accents, and exposed stitching, with Terracotta leather seats adding a touch of color. However, the interior space was cramped, especially in the back seat. The cargo area offered 20.2 cubic feet of space, expandable to 45.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, providing practical but limited storage.

The 2025 Ford Explorer accommodated six people in its standard configuration, with an optional second-row bench seat increasing capacity to seven. The ST-Line trim featured comfortable front seats with heating and power adjustments, and the Premium Package added luxury touches like ambient lighting and massaging seats. The second-row captain's chairs were equally comfortable, with manual rear side window shades for added convenience. The third row was less comfortable for adults but suitable for children. The Explorer offered competitive cargo space, with 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 46 cubic feet behind the second row, and a maximum of 85.8 cubic feet.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30's turbocharged models featured a new 10.25-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the screen's distance from the driver and passenger was a drawback. Mazda's approach to reducing driver distraction involved static displays and a combination of controls, but the lack of natural voice recognition limited its effectiveness. The CX-30 included a three-year subscription to Mazda Connected Services and new USB-C ports for connectivity.

The 2025 Ford Explorer introduced the Ford Digital Experience, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This system included Google Built-in, Amazon Alexa, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Explorer's infotainment was user-friendly, with Google Maps integration and app downloads through Google Play. The B&O sound systems varied by trim, with the ST-Line offering 10 speakers and the Platinum and ST featuring 14 speakers and 980 watts of power.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 emphasized safety with new standard features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. These joined existing systems such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims offered additional safety features like adaptive headlights and a surround-view camera system. The CX-30 received top safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, ensuring peace of mind for drivers.

The 2025 Ford Explorer came equipped with Ford CoPilot 360+, which included adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist. The ST-Line trim and above featured BlueCruise, Ford's hands-free highway driving system. During testing, BlueCruise performed well, though it occasionally required driver intervention in certain conditions. The NHTSA had not fully rated the 2025 Explorer, but it received five-star side-impact and four-star rollover resistance ratings.