MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index
NHTSA crash test of the 2020 Mazda CX-30

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2020 Mazda CX-30

Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.

3Recalls
31Complaints
0Investigations
ABOUT THE MAZDA CX-30

The Mazda CX-30 is a subcompact SUV that slots between the CX-3 and CX-5 in Mazda's crossover lineup, targeting style-conscious buyers who want a premium-adjacent driving experience without a luxury price tag. Offered since the 2020 model year, it competes in one of the most crowded segments in the US market, appealing to urban commuters and small families alike who prioritize refinement and safety.

VERDICT

The 2020 Mazda CX-30 earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 93 out of 100, an exceptional result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Both frontal and side crash protection reached the full 5 stars. It has 3 recalls on record, reflected in the score.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
  • urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers generally regard the CX-30 as one of the more polished and driver-focused entries in the subcompact SUV class, praising its upscale interior feel and composed handling for the segment. Most consider it a strong all-around choice, though some note that cargo space and rear-seat room are modest trade-offs for its sleek proportions.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 14.7%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15159

Index breakdown

Crash protection66/70
Avoidance tech10/10
Defect record16.5/20
Forward collision warning: StandardLane departure warning: StandardStability control: Standard

NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images

Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE21V086000

Risk: If the power liftgate unexpectedly lowers while a person is accessing the rear storage area of the vehicle, it can increase their risk of injury.

Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will update the power liftgate control module software and inspect the serial number of the power liftgate drive unit, replacing it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began April 8, 2021. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 4621B.

Reported 2021-02-18

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER20V346000

Risk: Loose brake calipers can reduce braking performance or interfere with wheel rotation, affecting vehicle handling. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front brake caliper bolts, tightening them as necessary. If bolts are missing, the affected brake caliper will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began July 24, 2020. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 4420F.

Reported 2020-06-12

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS20V347000

Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may increase the risk of a fire. Additionally, the engine may stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the evaporative vent hose in the fuel tank. If the hose is disconnected, it will be reconnected and the charcoal canister with some related parts will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began July 29, 2020. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 4520F.

Reported 2020-06-12

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

31 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

1reported crash
0reported fire
0reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsUnknown Or Other 9Service Brakes 7Electrical System 5Fuel/Propulsion System 5Engine 5Structure 3

Other CX-30 years

Rivals in SUV (2020)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 15159), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Mazda Cx-30 2020. Class rank 3 of 107 in SUV 2020. Methodology · Disclosure