2025 Mazda CX‑30 S Select Sport: In‑Depth Review & Key Features

The 2025 Mazda CX‑30 S Select Sport arrives as the brand’s newest compact crossover, blending sleek design with a driver‑focused cabin. Early test drives reveal a model that feels familiar yet subtly refined, offering a balance of performance, tech, and upscale touches that aim to outshine rivals in the segment. Below, we break down what makes the S Select Sport trim stand out and whether it justifies its price tag.

2025 Mazda CX‑30 S Select Sport: First Impressions

From the moment you approach the CX‑30 S Select Sport, the front fascia catches the eye with a bolder grille and dark‑tone accent lenses. Mazda’s Kodo design language is evident in the sculpted hood and crisp character lines, giving the crossover a more athletic silhouette compared to the base model. The rear incorporates a subtle spoiler and dual‑tone tail lights that reinforce the “Sport” identity without screaming for attention.

Exterior Enhancements Worth Noticing

The S Select Sport trim adds several visual upgrades that differentiate it from the standard CX‑30. These include:

• 18‑inch alloy wheels with a matte‑black finish, providing a wider stance.
• Black roof rails and side‑mirror caps that complement the darker exterior palette.
• A sport‑styled front bumper with integrated fog lights, giving a more aggressive front look.
• Optional dual‑tone paint combinations that pair a deep metallic hue with contrasting roof colors.

While none of these changes affect aerodynamics dramatically, they collectively lend the vehicle a more dynamic presence on the road.

Inside the Cabin: Upscale Comfort Meets Practicality

Inside, Mazda continues its tradition of high‑quality materials. The S Select Sport features leather‑accented seats with contrast stitching, a stepped‑up version of the standard upholstery. The driver’s seat offers 8‑way power adjustment, including lumbar support, a rarity in this class. Rear passengers benefit from a generous 62‑inch headroom and a 55‑inch cargo floor length, making the CX‑30 practical for everyday errands.

Technology upgrades are subtle but meaningful. A 10.25‑inch infotainment touchscreen replaces the smaller display found on lower trims, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. The instrument cluster uses a 7‑inch digital gauge with customizable layouts, letting drivers prioritize navigation, performance data, or media.

Powertrain and Driving Dynamics

The S Select Sport retains Mazda’s tried‑and‑true 2.5‑liter Skyactiv‑G gasoline engine, delivering roughly 186 horsepower and 186 lb‑ft of torque. Paired with a six‑speed automatic transmission, the powertrain feels smooth yet responsive, especially when the optional “Sport Mode” sharpens throttle response and adjusts steering weight. Fuel economy hovers around 25 mpg combined, a figure that aligns with expectations for a compact crossover of this size.

On winding roads, the CX‑30’s chassis shines. Mazda’s i‑Activesport suspension—tuned specifically for the S Select Sport—offers a slightly firmer ride without sacrificing comfort. The steering remains precise, offering good feedback that encourages an engaging driving experience, a hallmark of the brand’s “Zoom‑Zoom” philosophy.

Technology and Connectivity

Beyond the larger touchscreen, the S Select Sport introduces a few tech conveniences:

• Wireless charging pad built into the center console for compatible smartphones.
• Head‑up display (HUD) that projects speed and navigation cues onto the windshield.
• A premium Bose 10‑speaker audio system delivering clear, balanced sound throughout the cabin.
• Standard Wi‑Fi hotspot capability, allowing up to four devices to stay connected on the go.

All these features integrate seamlessly with Mazda’s MyMazda app, which lets owners remotely start the vehicle, lock or unlock doors, and monitor fuel levels from a smartphone.

Safety Suite and Driver Assistance

Mazda continues to prioritize safety with its i‑Activesafe® suite, now standard across the S Select Sport trim. Key components include:

• Adaptive Cruise Control with stop‑and‑go functionality.
• Lane‑Keep Assist with gentle steering torque to maintain lane position.
• Blind‑Spot Monitoring with rear cross‑traffic alert.
• Automatic Emergency Braking that can detect pedestrians and cyclists.

These systems have earned the vehicle a respectable 5‑star rating from the Euro NCAP testing body, reflecting Mazda’s commitment to proactive safety.

Pricing, Trims, and Value Proposition

The 2025 CX‑30 S Select Sport starts at roughly $31,500 before destination charges, positioning it slightly above the base CX‑30 but below the top‑of‑the‑range Signature trim. Considering the added wheels, leather accents, upgraded tech, and enhanced safety features, the price feels competitive within a segment that includes the Honda HR‑V, Subaru Crosstrek, and Hyundai Kona.

Buyers looking for a balance of sportier aesthetics, a more refined interior, and a robust set of driver‑assist tools will likely find the S Select Sport a compelling choice. Those who prioritize raw power or off‑road capability may look elsewhere, as the CX‑30 remains firmly road‑oriented.

Verdict: Does the S Select Sport Earn Its Badge?

Overall, the 2025 Mazda CX‑30 S Select Sport delivers on its promise of a sport‑inspired yet everyday‑ready crossover. The incremental upgrades over the standard model are tangible enough to justify the modest price bump, especially for drivers who appreciate a premium feel without stepping into the luxury tier. While it doesn’t reinvent the segment, it refines the formula, offering a driving experience that feels both engaging and comfortably refined.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s new in the 2025 Mazda CX‑30?

The 2025 model introduces refreshed exterior styling for the S Select Sport trim, a larger infotainment screen, wireless charging, and an updated i‑Activesafe driver‑assist suite, while retaining the proven Skyactiv‑G engine.

How does the S Select Sport trim differ from the base CX‑30?

Key differences include 18‑inch dark‑tone wheels, leather‑accented seats, a 10.25‑inch touchscreen, Bose audio, a head‑up display, and additional safety technologies—all packaged with a sport‑tuned suspension.

Is the 2025 CX‑30 S Select Sport worth the price?

For buyers who value upscale interior touches, enhanced tech, and a sportier appearance without a dramatic price jump, the S Select Sport offers solid value compared to rivals in the compact crossover market.