MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index
NHTSA crash test of the 2021 Mazda CX-30

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2021 Mazda CX-30

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

2Recalls
98Complaints
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 2021 Mazda CX-30 earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 88 out of 100, an strong 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 2 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 15171

Index breakdown

Crash protection66/70
Avoidance tech10/10
Defect record12/20
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

TIRES:VALVE21V101000

Risk: A sudden air leak from the tire air valve may cause a loss of vehicle control while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Mazda will notify owners, and dealers will replace all four tire air valves with new parts, free of charge. The recall began April 6, 2021. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500 Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 4721B.

Reported 2021-02-22

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

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

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

10reported crash
0reported fire
13reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsEngine 48Electrical System 13Forward Collision Avoidance 12Unknown Or Other 10Visibility/Wiper 9Service Brakes 8

Other CX-30 years

Rivals in SUV (2021)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 15171), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Mazda Cx-30 2021. Class rank 37 of 118 in SUV 2021. Methodology · Disclosure