Mazda’s known for being something of an automotive maverick these days, doing things its own way. So it’s no surprise that the Mazda CX-30 is quite different to other small SUVs. For one, it features low-slung sporty styling that’s quite at odds with its chunky-looking rivals, while underneath, it’s based on the underpinnings of mid-sized hatchback rather than a supermini, which means bigger engines, more tech and grown-up manners within the same footprint.

The CX-30 has been updated for 2025, with the usual raft of detail refinements and tech updates, as well as a new version of the entry-level SkyActiv-G engine that we’ll get to later in the review. In the spirit of unconventionality, Mazda’s doubling down on its above-average sized power units, neither of which have turbochargers.

What they do boast are mild-hybrid systems to boost economy while delivering bags of easy mid-range power to reduce the need to rev it hard when you’re in a hurry.

The latest iteration of the CX-30, therefore, resolutely refuses to follow the crowd. The new SkyActive-G may produce an unstressed 140hp from 2.5 litres, but as it’s up against 1.5-litre (or less) rivals, that’s no big deal. The range-topping 2.0-litre SkyActiv-X makes 186hp, aided by its incredibly clever compression ignition system that allows it to burn petrol in a similar fashion to diesel.

Inside, Mazda continues to stray from the norm. Some people will wonder why the touchscreen infotainment system is such a stretch, but that’s because the principal control method is a rotary dial on the centre console like an early 2000s BMW iDrive setup. You know what, though, it works a treat, and once mastered, is easy to navigate using Mazda’s own software or Apple CarPlay or Android Auto without your eyes leaving the road. We wish more carmakers would follow suit.

There’s a list as long as your arm of small SUVs for the CX-30 to fend off, it’s a fiercely competitive sector and packed with bestsellers including the Ford Puma, Nissan Juke and MG ZS. Our current small SUV pick, the Skoda Kamiq, is also in direct competition with the CX-30, and all these rivals take a more conventional approach to the small SUV formula. Can Mazda’s leftfield take on the small SUV formula really cut it?

There are five trim levels to pick between, called Grades by Mazda. Even in entry-level Prime-Line spec comes with fancy features like adaptive cruise control and LED headlights. Each trim level then adds extra features and tops out in the decked-out Takumi trim. This is the kitchen-sink spec and includes leather seats, a heated steering wheel and head-up display. This trim pits right against the might of the Lexus LBX and DS 3 in the premium end of the crossover class.

It’s glaringly obvious that the latest Mazda CX-30 won’t be for everybody, but can the classy and old-school take on the small SUV formula carve enough of a niche? We’ve driven this one over a particularly intensive 1,500-mile weekend route in Scandinavia – all part and parcel of how we test cars here at Parkers.

Want to know more? Keep reading for our full review – covering what the Mazda CX-30 is like inside and out, how practical it is, how much it’ll cost you to run and what it’s like to drive.