2026 MAZDA CX-30 Vs. 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross: Small SUV, Big San Jose Style

When it comes to fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive vehicles without breaking the bank, it’s hard to beat the affordability of a subcompact SUV. With so many options available, how do you choose the best subcompact SUV in 2026? The 2026 Mazda CX-30 and 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross are two compelling models. Both of these vehicles offer plenty of style and performance, but which one should you choose? Compare the 2026 Mazda CX-30 vs. Corolla Cross specs in this guide from the team at Capitol Mazda. 

2026 MAZDA CX-30 Vs. Toyota Corolla Cross Specs: Performance

When it comes to performance, the base engine in the 2026 Mazda CX-30 outguns the sole engine offered in the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross. The base engine in the Mazda CX-30 makes 186 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque compared to just 169 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque for the Toyota Corolla Cross. And the available turbocharged engine in the Mazda CX-30 delivers even more power for your drives through Campbell and San Jose.

Additionally, the Toyota Corolla Cross features front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available. Every Mazda CX-30 features the automaker’s i-ACTIV AWD® with Off-road Traction Assist as standard. Compare the 2026 Mazda CX-30 vs. Corolla Cross specs below:

2026 MAZDA CX-30 Powertrains

SKYACTIV®-G 2.5 DOHC 4-Cylinder Engine With VVT

Standard for: 2.5 S, 2.5 S Select Sport, 2.5 S Preferred, 2.5 S Aire Edition, 2.5 S Carbon Edition, 2.5 S Premium

• 186 hp @ 6,000 rpm
• 186 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm
• SKYACTIV®-DRIVE 6-speed electronically controlled sport automatic transmission
• i-ACTIV AWD® with Off-road Traction Assist

SKYACTIV®-G76 2.5 Dynamic Pressure Turbo engine

Standard for: 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition, 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus

• 227 hp @ 5,000 rpm (with 87 Octane Fuel)
• 310 lb-ft of torque @ 2,000 rpm (with 87 Octane Fuel)
• 250 hp @ 5,000 rpm (with 93 Octane Fuel)
• 320 lb-ft of torque @ 2,500 rpm (with 93 Octane Fuel)
• SKYACTIV®-DRIVE 6-speed electronically controlled sport automatic transmission
• i-ACTIV AWD® with Off-road Traction Assist

2026 Toyota Corolla Cross Powertrains

2.0L 4-Cylinder DOHC 16-Valve With Dual Variable Valve Timing With Intelligence (VVT-i)

• 169 hp @ 6,600 rpm
• 151 lb-ft of torque @ 4,400 rpm
• Continuously Variable Transmission with intelligence and Shift Mode (CVTi-S)
• FWD or AWD (Dynamic Torque Control sends up to 50% power to rear wheels)

The Mazda CX-30 offers easier maneuverability in urban environments, which is helpful when finding parking in downtown San Jose or around Santana Row. 

2026 MAZDA CX-30 Vs. Toyota Corolla Cross Specs: Interior

Inside, both models have similar dimensions, with the 2026 Mazda CX-30 offering more overall interior volume, primarily in the rear seating area. Additionally, the Mazda CX-30 is available with real leather on certain trims. Compare the 2026 Mazda CX-30 vs. Toyota Corolla Cross interior dimensions and upholstery options below:

2026 MAZDA CX-30 Interior

Interior Dimensions

• Head Room (Front/Rear, without moonroof): 38.1 inches / 38.3 inches
• Head Room (Front/Rear, with moonroof): 37.8 inches / 38.3 inches
• Shoulder Room (Front/Rear): 55.6 inches / 53.6 inches
• Hip Room (Front/Rear): 54.6 inches / 53.2 inches
• Leg Room (Front/Rear): 41.7 inches / 36.3 inches
• EPA Passenger Volume without moonroof): 94.1 cubic feet
• EPA Passenger Volume with moonroof): 93.8 cubic feet
• EPA Cargo Volume (2nd row seats up): 20.2 cubic feet

Interior Materials

• Cloth seats (2.5 S)
• Leatherette seats (2.5 S Select Sport, 2.5 S Preferred, 2.5 S Aire Edition, 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition)
• Leather seats (2.5 S Carbon Edition, 2.5 S Premium, 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus)

2026 Toyota Corolla Cross Interior

Interior Dimensions

• Head Room (Front/Rear, without moonroof): 38.6 inches / 39.0 inches
• Head Room (Front/Rear, with moonroof): 39.5 inches / 39.1 inches
• Shoulder Room (Front/Rear): 52.7 inches / 52.4 inches
• Hip Room (Front/Rear): 52.6 inches / 43.8 inches
• Leg Room (Front/Rear): 42.9 inches / 32.0 inches
• EPA Passenger Volume without moonroof): 94.9 cubic feet
• EPA Passenger Volume with moonroof): 93.8 cubic feet
• EPA Cargo Volume (2nd row seats up): 24.0 cubic feet

Interior Materials

• Fabric seats (L, LE)
• SofTex® seats (XLE)

The 2026 Mazda CX-3 offers greater overall comfort for local drives and longer trips to Morgan Hill.

Test-Drive The 2026 MAZDA CX-30 In San Jose

Now that you know what the best subcompact SUV in 2026 is, it’s time to experience the Mazda CX-30 firsthand.Contact us today to schedule your test drive in a new Mazda CX-30 at Capitol Mazda! Our team will review all the features of each trim to ensure you find the best configuration for your Los Gatos lifestyle. Use our online tools to get pre-approved for financing, value your trade-in, browse our current No-Brainer Deals before visiting our showroom in San Jose.