[16] According to Naohito Saga, the CX-30's program manager, the CX-30 is targeted to drivers who are still single or are married and starting a family in the United States.

[28] Euro NCAP test results for a LHD, 5-door hatchback variant on a 2019 registration: ANCAP test results on an Australasian market RHD, 5-door small SUV variant on a 2020 registration (aligned with Euro NCAP): The 2021 CX-30 was awarded the "Top Safety Pick +" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

"[35] Car and Driver rated it 9.5 out of 10, commenting that "If you're shopping small SUVs, the Mazda CX-30 should be at the top of your consideration list.

"[36] Edmunds.com gave it a score of 7.9 out of 10, commenting that "Admittedly, it's a niche vehicle, but it has the potential to be a 'just-right' fit for car shoppers who want a slightly roomier and nicer vehicle than an subcompact crossover SUV but don't like the greater cost of bigger models such as the CX-5 or CR-V."[37] Alan Taylor-Jones of Autocar gave the CX-30 four out of five stars, saying: "Satisfyingly agile and blessed with a truly high quality interior, the CX-30 is a tempting choice if you don’t need vast amounts of space inside.

rated the CX-30 three out of five stars, commenting that "Its real strength lies in its ability to feel as luxurious as premium brands in this class at a much cheaper price.

[46] In 2021, the CX-30 was named Car of the Year by Wheels magazine in Australia,[47] and it was selected as a Top Pick for Subcompact SUV Under US$25,000 by Consumer Reports.