Mazda CX-30 vs Chevrolet Bolt

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 was designed to stand out as a crossover, with its distinctive charcoal-colored plastic cladding on the lower body, which some found excessive. Despite this, the CX-30 maintained an overall appealing aesthetic with its short overhangs, long hood, and sculpted sides. 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. The CX-30 was available in eight versions, with engine options ranging from a 191-horsepower four-cylinder to a turbocharged variant producing up to 250 hp. Prices varied from $24,995 to $36,800, plus a destination charge.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt retained a familiar look, with minor styling changes that made it resemble a conventional gas-powered car. The Bolt was positioned between a large hatchback and a subcompact SUV, offering a single body style for 2027. Its tall and narrow design prioritized utility and interior space over a sporty appearance. The interior saw more significant updates, featuring a larger digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The cabin was dominated by hard plastic surfaces, reinforcing its budget feel, though the RS trim offered synthetic leather with red stitching. The Bolt's rear seating area was practical, with ample headroom and thigh support, and the cargo space was flexible, with a large bin under the floor for additional storage.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30, equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivered 250 hp and 320 pound-feet of torque. Despite these impressive figures, the CX-30's power delivery was smooth and gradual, creating a deceptive sense of sluggishness. The traditional six-speed automatic transmission provided flawless shifting, and the standard AWD system ensured power was distributed to all four wheels. However, the turbocharged engine's fuel economy was a downside, with an observed 21.3 mpg on a mountainous route, limiting the range to around 270 miles on a full tank. The CX-30 was praised for its nimble handling and excellent outward visibility, making it enjoyable to drive, though it felt slightly soft on winding roads.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt featured a new 65-kilowatt-hour lithium-iron phosphate battery pack, reducing costs and environmental impact. Its motor, borrowed from the Chevy Equinox EV, produced 210 horsepower and 169 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in the low seven-second range. The Bolt's acceleration was quick compared to gas-powered subcompact SUVs, with immediate pedal response. One-pedal driving was available, though it required some adjustment. The ride was firm but not overly harsh, and the Bolt's low center of gravity contributed to its agility on curvy roads. The EPA estimated a range of 262 miles on a full charge, with improved charging speed allowing a 10% to 80% recharge in 25 minutes.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30's interior was characterized by deft design, quality materials, and logical controls. The three-gauge, partial digital instrumentation was a favorite, and the traditional PRNDL shifter was easy to operate. The cabin featured gloss black trim, metallic accents, and exposed stitching, with Terracotta leather seats adding a splash of color. While the interior space was cramped, especially in the back seat, the driver and front passenger enjoyed comfort and ease of access. The cargo area offered 20.2 cubic feet of space, expandable to 45.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, providing practical storage options.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt offered an upright driving position with ample space for larger occupants. The rear seats provided plenty of headroom and thigh support, with a flat floor reducing discomfort for center-seat passengers. The Bolt's cargo capacity was 16.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, with a large bin underneath for additional storage. The rear seatbacks folded flat with the cargo floor, enhancing flexibility. Up front, the Bolt provided ample storage for personal items, with a large bin, floor tray, and deep center armrest bin, along with a wireless phone charger and additional dashboard pockets.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30's turbocharged versions 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. All CX-30s included a three-year subscription to Mazda Connected Services, with optional in-vehicle Wi-Fi and a Bose premium audio system available on higher trims.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt came with an 11-inch digital instrument panel and an 11.3-inch center touchscreen, running on a Google-based operating system. This meant Apple CarPlay and standalone Android Auto were not supported, requiring Bluetooth pairing for personal music libraries. The optional Technology package added features like a surround-view camera system, digital rear-view mirror, and wireless charging pad. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with logical menus and quick responses. The Bolt's navigation system could locate charging stations and precondition the battery for optimal charging rates. Additionally, the Bolt offered vehicle-to-load charging, serving as a backup power source for a home.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 emphasized safety with new standard features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rear-seat alert system. These joined existing systems like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims offered adaptive headlights, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-30 received high safety ratings, with five stars from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt's crash test results were not yet available, but it was expected to perform well based on its platform. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitors. The optional Technology package added a surround-view camera system, digital rear-view mirror, and traffic-sign recognition. GM's Super Cruise system was available for an additional cost, offering hands-free highway driving.