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When selecting a compact crossover, discerning buyers often face a choice between the athletic Mazda CX-30 and the versatile Honda HR-V. These two vehicles, while similarly priced, offer distinct advantages. The Mazda CX-30 appeals to those seeking a powerful and engaging driving experience, boasting a more robust engine and standard all-wheel drive, alongside a competitive entry-level price. Conversely, the Honda HR-V prioritizes practicality and modern conveniences, offering significantly more passenger and cargo space, coupled with advanced infotainment features as standard. Ultimately, the ideal choice hinges on individual priorities: thrilling performance and value versus spaciousness and cutting-edge technology.

Unveiling the Nuances: A Deep Dive into Compact Crossover Competitors

On the evening of August 10, 2025, a comprehensive evaluation emerged comparing two leading compact crossovers: the 2025 Mazda CX-30 and the 2026 Honda HR-V. This detailed analysis, conducted in various automotive testing environments, highlighted crucial distinctions that could sway consumer preferences. The comparison underscored five major differences:

Firstly, from a financial perspective, the 2025 Mazda CX-30 presents a more economical entry point. With a starting price of $25,195, it undercuts the 2026 Honda HR-V's initial cost of $26,200. This financial advantage is further amplified by the CX-30's standard all-wheel drive system, a feature that requires an additional investment in the HR-V. Even at the higher trim levels, the CX-30 maintains its competitive edge, with the 2.5 S Carbon Edition, priced at $30,140, offering comparable features like an eight-speaker audio system and an 8.8-inch touchscreen, against the HR-V EX-L at $30,050, which includes leather-trimmed seats and a slightly larger nine-inch display.

Secondly, in terms of internal dimensions and practical utility, the 2026 Honda HR-V distinctly surpasses its competitor. Despite sharing a near-identical wheelbase (104.5 inches for HR-V versus 104.4 inches for CX-30), the HR-V offers a more generous interior. Passengers will appreciate the HR-V's expansive 98.7 cubic feet of passenger volume, featuring ample headroom and legroom, significantly more than the CX-30's 94.1 cubic feet. Moreover, the HR-V's cargo capacity is notably superior, providing 24.4 cubic feet with the rear seats upright and an impressive 55.1 cubic feet when folded, dwarfing the CX-30's 20.2 cubic feet and 45.2 cubic feet, respectively.

Thirdly, when it comes to on-board technology and user convenience, the 2026 Honda HR-V takes the lead. While both models include robust safety systems, the HR-V offers more advanced infotainment features as standard. Its standard nine-inch touchscreen outmatches the CX-30's 8.8-inch screen. Crucially, the HR-V includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility across all trims, a feature only available on higher-tier CX-30 models. Additionally, a wireless smartphone charging pad comes standard on all HR-V variants, whereas it is an exclusive feature for premium CX-30 models.

Fourthly, for those prioritizing dynamic driving and raw power, the 2025 Mazda CX-30 emerges as the clear victor. It comes standard with a potent 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating 191 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a smooth six-speed automatic transmission. This setup provides a more engaging driving experience compared to the HR-V's 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and CVT, which produces 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque. For even greater exhilaration, the CX-30 offers a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine variant, unleashing up to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, albeit with a slight reduction in fuel efficiency. In terms of mileage, the standard CX-30 achieves 26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway, while the HR-V (FWD) is rated at 26 mpg city / 32 mpg highway.

Finally, the 2026 Honda HR-V showcases more significant updates to its standard equipment and aesthetics. Beyond minor enhancements to the CX-30 (such as a new navigation system and voice controls), the HR-V introduces a refreshed exterior styling, alongside a richer array of standard features. All HR-V models now boast the nine-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone connectivity, and wireless charging. Furthermore, rear privacy glass is standard across the board, and distinct wheel designs are introduced for each trim level, including gray 17-inch alloy wheels for the LX, black 18-inch wheels for the Sport, and new 18-inch wheels for the EX-L, complemented by refined interior touches like silver steering wheel spokes and dynamic climate control lighting.

As a consumer, navigating the vibrant compact crossover market requires a clear understanding of one's driving priorities. This detailed comparison between the 2025 Mazda CX-30 and the 2026 Honda HR-V reveals that both vehicles are commendable contenders, yet each excels in different domains. The Mazda CX-30, with its spirited performance and standard all-wheel drive, is an excellent choice for drivers who value a more dynamic and controlled experience on varied terrains, and who appreciate a compelling price point for what's offered. Its refined engine options deliver a sense of power and responsiveness that enthusiasts often seek. Conversely, the Honda HR-V shines in its practical aspects: superior interior volume caters to families or individuals requiring ample space for passengers and cargo, while its advanced, user-friendly technology suite ensures a connected and convenient journey. From a practical standpoint, the HR-V's comprehensive standard tech features, including wireless smartphone integration, represent significant added value. Ultimately, prospective buyers should weigh whether the thrill of the drive and initial cost savings of the CX-30, or the everyday utility and cutting-edge features of the HR-V, best align with their lifestyle and preferences.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 SPORT emerges as a significant contender in the luxury SUV market, showcasing a complete overhaul from its predecessor. This newly introduced trim level for INFINITI's flagship full-size, body-on-frame SUV combines robust performance with an elevated sense of luxury and a distinctive athletic appearance. Designed to accommodate up to seven passengers, it directly challenges established rivals in the upscale utility vehicle segment. The enhancements span from a more potent powertrain to a meticulously redesigned interior and an innovative adaptive suspension system, all contributing to a driving experience that prioritates both dynamic capability and passenger comfort. This model signifies INFINITI's commitment to pushing boundaries in automotive design and engineering, offering a sophisticated and powerful option for discerning buyers.

Scheduled for release in late summer 2025, the 2026 INFINITI QX80 is a full-size, body-on-frame luxury SUV engineered to seat seven occupants comfortably. This vehicle enters a competitive arena, aiming to surpass models such as the Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon Denali, and Cadillac Escalade. A cornerstone of INFINITI's product portfolio, the new QX80 boasts a thoroughly revamped interior. Key interior highlights include heated and ventilated seating for the first and second rows, with the option of heated third-row seating, a first for the model. This meticulous attention to passenger well-being across all rows is intended to establish a new paradigm for luxury within the brand. The 2026 QX80 will be offered in several distinct trims: PURE, LUXE, the new-for-2026 SPORT, and AUTOGRAPH, each catering to varying preferences for luxury and features.

Under the hood, INFINITI has moved away from the previous V8 engine, opting instead for a more efficient and powerful twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6. This new engine delivers an impressive 450 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a 9-speed automatic transmission that can power either the rear wheels or all four wheels. While sharing its fundamental powertrain and platform with the Nissan Armada, especially its performance-oriented NISMO variant, the QX80 is distinctly refined to emphasize luxury and a sporty character, diverging from the Armada's more utilitarian focus.

For enhanced ride dynamics, higher-tier trims feature an Electronic Air Suspension system, complemented by Dynamic Digital Suspension. This advanced system allows the vehicle to automatically lower by 1.2 inches at higher speeds, optimizing aerodynamics. When stationary, the suspension can descend by 2.8 inches to an 'Easy Access' level, facilitating effortless entry and exit for passengers and simplified cargo loading. Conversely, for off-road excursions, the system can raise the QX80's ride height by 2.1 inches above its normal setting. Despite its luxurious appointments, the QX80 retains its SUV utility, capable of towing up to 8,500 lbs when properly equipped. It also includes an innovative 'Trailer Blind Spot Warning' system, effective for trailers up to 33 feet in length. Unlike some competitors that offer multiple size variants, INFINITI maintains a single, comprehensive QX80 model with a unified powertrain, streamlining the ownership experience.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 SPORT trim distinguishes itself with a bold, dark-themed aesthetic, featuring blacked-out exterior elements and a uniquely styled interior. This includes a revised front grille, a redesigned front bumper, and exclusive 22-inch wheels. The darkened accents extend to the exterior trim, mirror caps, lower bumper finishers, roof rails, and emblems, creating a cohesive and assertive visual statement. Inside, the SPORT treatment introduces a distinctive Dusk Blue color scheme, accentuated by dark matte chrome finishes, a graphite headliner and pillars, and open-pore wood trim on the instrument panel and doors. The seats are outfitted with black and blue inserts, featuring a unique diamond-pattern perforation across all three rows. The QX80 SPORT is available in several exterior colors, including Mineral Black, Radiant White, Grand Blue, or Dynamic Metal, with the latter three offering an optional contrasting Black Obsidian roof for added stylistic flair.

According to Tiago Castro, vice president of INFINITI Americas, the QX80 continues to set new benchmarks in luxury SUV design and technology, driving strong sales. Castro highlights that the 2026 SPORT grade is a direct response to luxury drivers' desire for a distinctive presence, dramatically amplifying the QX80's "Artistry in Motion" with its sleek, blacked-out appearance.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 is slated to arrive at dealerships in late summer 2025, with a starting manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $83,750. Building on the impressive redesign of the Nissan Armada, there is considerable anticipation that the new QX80 will also deliver an exceptional driving and ownership experience. Automotive reviewers are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to conduct evaluations, promising that comprehensive insights into its performance and features will soon become available to the public.