The CX-30 is available in three trim levels with the base ‘Active’ derivative priced at R469 900, followed by the ‘Dynamic’ at R499 000. The range-topping ‘Individual’ will set you back R540 00, and it’s this model Autodealer drove to find out what this sporty new crossover out of Japan offers.
Coupe-style
Like the CX-3, the new CX-30 is shaped more like a coupe without such a voluptuous rear as the CX-5 and most other crossovers/SUVs.
From that tapered nose with its thin headlights, the car rises up quite high behind the windscreen, but from there backwards the roofline drops sharply.
It is a style made popular by BMW with the X6 and has since been copied by Merc, Honda and Toyota.
Less volume in the rear means less headroom for backseat passengers and less of a traditional SUV’s practicality, but that does not seem to bother much, because there is no shortage of these type of coupe-styled crossovers on the road. Mazda’s own CX-3, especially, is not having any problems whatsoever impressing buyers, and the CX-30 should be just as popular.
Compared to the stablemates, the 30 has cleaner, sharper lines and the slender nose has a menacing look unmatched by that of the CX-5 and 3.
Almost premium
Since its breakup with Ford, the build quality of everything Mazda produces has improved dramatically, and Autodealer has said many times before these vehicles are knocking on the premium (German) door.
Getting into the CX-30 2.0L Individual reaffirmed this theory, because the interior not only matches that of an Audi A4 press demonstrator currently parked in the Autodealer driveway, but in some aspects even outshines the stately sedan.
One just cannot fault Mazda’s choice of coverings for the dash, door panels and seats, and the fit, as well as the various leather sections’ stitching, are just perfect. It is one of these stitched leather inserts, running right across the CX-30’s dash, that really stands out, because Mazda extended it with matching sections flowing into the door panels, thus creating the effect that front-seat occupants are almost wrapped by the dash with the controls and features it holds – executed perfectly.
User-friendly
Another aspect that Mazda got right is the infotainment system’s operation with the various electronic driver’s aids. Unlike those of premium cars, the CX-30’s media applications, navigation, vehicle and safety settings can be controlled and adjusted via a smart rotary dial in the centre console, just behind the electronic park brake.
With this system there is no need to prod at the 8,8-inch colour screen atop the dash. This system is more effective and safer to use while on the go.
And while driving the CX-30, you are never bombarded by sensors setting off alarms by the minute or pointless warning messages. Those features are there, Mazda has just figured out a way of making them less annoying than what premium carmakers could do thus far.
No turbos
Mazda still has some work to do before joining the premium passenger vehicle club. The CX-30’s drivetrain, while definitely smoother than your run-of-the-mill cars, is not as refined.
The naturally aspirated 2.0-litre petrol does a great job in moving the big body around and the six-speed auto always knows what is expected of it, but a turbo option with a bit more step in its stride would be a nice addition.
The easy-breathing 2.0-litre SKYACTIV-G engine’s 121kW and 213Nm runs like clockwork; however, it lacks that explosiveness of a force-fed unit, making for a somewhat subdued drive.
With that said, nothing beats the smooth, steady acceleration of a turboless petrol engine and it probably will last until the world runs out of Brent crude.
Verdict
The CX-30 is another big step in the right direction for Mazda as far as build quality and styling go.
The drivetrain could be improved, but this is not such a big bother when taking into account that the electronics are easier to understand and operate than those of just about every other car out there.
A few kilometres down the road and the CX-30 feels as familiar as an old friend you have known and liked your entire life. That is how a car should feel!
