What's The Difference Between Mazda's Four CX Crossovers?

In the typically modern alphanumeric naming scheme that Mazda employs across its lineup, it's not surprising to come across car shoppers who don't know where one model stops and another begins. 

Which one's smaller? Which one's biggest? Is that a rival for the SUV I just drove or is it more expensive? Or is it something else altogether?

These are common questions. And sometimes car buyers just want the bare bones facts. So here's a look at Mazda's four CX crossovers – the CX-3, CX-30, CX-5, and CX-9 – and some of the key differentiators across Mazda's increasingly popular utility vehicle lineup. 

Including freight and fees, pricing for the 2020 Mazda CX-3 begins at $22,795. i-ACTIV all-wheel drive is optional on the GX and GS. You can also opt for a 6-speed manual transmission on the entry-level GX. 

The new 2020 Mazda CX-30, which just arrived in January, is also available in GX, GS, and GT trim levels. Pricing starts at $26,000. As in the CX-3, i-ACTIV AWD is standard on the GT; optional on the GX and GS. The mid-level GS and top-spec GT also include a more powerful 2.5-liter engine.

The Mazda CX-5 is Mazda's most popular vehicle. Pricing starts at $29,500 for the GX and moves up through GS, GT, and Signature models. The GX and GS and available in either front or all-wheel-drive configurations. The GT comes standard with i-ACTIV AWD and offers a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine as an option. The top-of-the-line CX-5 Signature is equipped with i-ACTIV AWD and the 2.5-liter turbo as standard equipment.

Then there's the flagship, the 2020 Mazda CX-9. Priced from $40,950, every CX-9 is powered by the immensely torquey 2.5-liter turbocharged powerplant. i-ACTIV all-wheel-drive is also standard equipment across the four-model range: GS, GS-L, GT, and Signature.