Compact SUVs offer Manchester, NH drivers plenty of cargo space, easy-to-handle size, and the option for all-weather capability, all without the bulk of a bigger SUV. The Mazda CX-30, Honda HR-V, Subaru Crosstrek, and Toyota Corolla Cross are top choices in this class, each with strengths in power, drivetrain, transmission, winter handling, interior design, and daily driving.
| Features | Mazda CX-30 | Honda HR-V | Subaru Crosstrek | Toyota Corolla Cross |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Engine | 2.5L 4-cylinder | 2.0L 4-cylinder | 2.5L BOXER 4-cylinder | 2.0L 4-cylinder |
Horsepower | 186 hp | 158 hp | 180 hp | 169 hp |
Torque | 186 lb-ft | 138 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft | 151 lb-ft |
Available Turbo Engine | Yes | No | No | No |
Maximum Available Output | 250 hp / 320 lb-ft | 158 hp / 138 lb-ft | 180 hp / 178 lb-ft | 196 hp hybrid system output |
Transmission | 6-speed automatic | CVT | CVT | CVT |
AWD | Standard | Available | Standard | Available on gas models; standard on hybrid |
Ground Clearance | 8.0 in. | 7.0-7.3 in. | 8.7 in.; 9.3 in. Wilderness | 8.1 in. |
Maximum Cargo Volume | 45.2 cu. ft. | 55.1 cu. ft. | 54.7 cu. ft. | Up to 61.8 cu. ft. |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
The Mazda CX-30 already has a big performance edge over the Honda HR-V, even before considering upgrades. Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine makes 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, while the Honda HR-V's 2.0-liter engine makes 158 horsepower and 138 pound-feet of torque. That means the Mazda has 28 more horsepower and 48 more pound-feet of torque.
The drivetrain comparison also favors Mazda for Manchester drivers who want AWD. i-ACTIV AWD is standard on every Mazda CX-30 trim. Honda equips the Honda HR-V with front-wheel drive as its standard configuration and offers Real Time AWD as an option. Mazda pairs its AWD system with Off-Road Traction Assist, G-Vectoring Control Plus, and a brake limited-slip differential on 2026 models.
Mazda extends its performance lead with an available 2.5-liter turbocharged engine that delivers up to 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. The Honda HR-V offers one 158-horsepower engine across its lineup. The transmissions also differ: the Mazda CX-30 uses a six-speed automatic, and the Honda HR-V uses a CVT.
The Mazda CX-30 is also smaller, measuring 173 inches long compared to the Honda HR-V's 179.8 inches. This makes it easier to park and maneuver in Manchester. The Honda does offer more cargo space, with 55.1 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded, while the Mazda has 45.2 cubic feet. If you value driving performance, standard AWD, available turbo power, and a compact size, the Mazda CX-30 is a great choice.
Both the Mazda CX-30 and Subaru Crosstrek come with standard AWD, which is great for New Hampshire drivers. The main differences show up in power and transmission.
The Mazda CX-30's standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder generates 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. The Subaru Crosstrek also uses a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder for 2026, producing 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. Mazda therefore starts with six additional horsepower and eight additional pound-feet of torque.
The power gap widens with the Mazda CX-30 Turbo models, which can produce up to 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. This gives Manchester drivers a lot more power for highway passing, climbing hills, and quick acceleration. Subaru doesn't offer a turbocharged engine in the 2026 Crosstrek gas lineup.
Transmission choice further separates them. The Mazda CX-30 uses a six-speed automatic with manual and Sport modes, giving drivers defined gear ratios and a conventional shifting feel. The Subaru Crosstrek uses a Lineartronic CVT.
The Subaru has the advantage in ground clearance. Standard models offer 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and the Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness increases it to 9.3 inches. For drivers who regularly travel rough trails or deeply rutted roads, that extra clearance adds more value. Manchester-area drivers who spend more time on city streets, Route 101, I-93, winding New Hampshire roads, and snowy pavement may find the Mazda CX-30's combination of standard AWD, stronger standard output, available turbo power, and a six-speed automatic more appealing.
The Mazda CX-30 has two main advantages over the gas-powered Toyota Corolla Cross: more power and standard AWD.
The Mazda CX-30's standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine makes 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. The Toyota Corolla Cross has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 169 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. So, the Mazda gives you 17 more horsepower and 35 more pound-feet of torque, even before you consider the available turbo engine.
Drivetrain options are another key difference for Manchester, NH shoppers. Every Mazda CX-30 comes standard with i-ACTIV AWD. Gas-powered Toyota Corolla Cross models are available with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or AWD, so you'll need to choose the right version if you want AWD. On AWD-equipped models, Toyota's Dynamic Torque Control AWD can send power to the rear wheels when needed.
Mazda uses a six-speed automatic transmission, while the Toyota Corolla Cross has a CVTi-S continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). For more performance, you can choose the Mazda CX-30 Turbo, which offers up to 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. Toyota also offers a Corolla Cross Hybrid for those who want better fuel efficiency. Mazda focuses on responsive acceleration and higher available torque.
Ground clearance is almost the same: 8.0 inches for the Mazda CX-30 and about 8.1 inches for the Toyota Corolla Cross. The real difference is that Mazda combines this clearance with standard AWD, 186 horsepower, a traditional six-speed automatic, and an available turbo engine. For Manchester drivers looking at compact SUVs, the Mazda CX-30 stands out for its strong performance right from the start.
The Honda HR-V, Subaru Crosstrek, and Toyota Corolla Cross each have strengths in the compact SUV class. But the Mazda CX-30 stands out for drivers who want standard AWD, strong acceleration, a traditional six-speed automatic, available turbo power, a premium interior, and a compact size.
For daily commuting around Manchester, winter travel through New Hampshire, or weekend drives beyond the city, the Mazda CX-30 provides capability without sacrificing the responsive driving experience that separates it from many small SUVs.
Visit Werner Mazda in Manchester, NH, to browse our new Mazda CX-30 inventory, compare trims and features, and take your favorite model for a test drive.
The Mazda CX-30 gives you stronger standard performance and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine makes 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, while the Honda HR-V offers 158 horsepower and 138 pound-feet of torque. The Mazda uses a six-speed automatic transmission, while the Honda uses a CVT. Honda's Real Time AWD is available as an option on every trim.
The Mazda CX-30 is a great pick for Manchester drivers who want quick acceleration and a responsive drive. Both the Mazda and Subaru Crosstrek have standard AWD, but the Mazda starts with 186 horsepower, compared to 180 in the Subaru. Mazda also offers a turbocharged engine with up to 250 horsepower. The Subaru does better on rough terrain, with up to 9.3 inches of ground clearance.
The Mazda CX-30 gives you standard AWD, 186 horsepower, and a six-speed automatic transmission. The gas-powered Toyota Corolla Cross has 169 horsepower, uses a CVT, and comes with either FWD or AWD. Toyota also offers a 196-horsepower Corolla Cross Hybrid with standard AWD for those who want better fuel efficiency.
Pick the Mazda CX-30 if you want standard AWD, strong engine performance, available turbo power, a compact size, and a high-quality interior. For Manchester, NH drivers facing winter roads and daily commutes, it offers great all-weather capability and a fun driving experience.
736 Huse Rd
Manchester, NH 03103
