No More Teases And Previews, Here’s The Mazda CX-30 In All Its Glory

Bermaz Motors, the only people that distribute Mazda vehicles here, ended 2019 with a preview of the Mazda CX-30. So, it is only appropriate to start 2020 where they left off — with the launch of the compact SUV.

It is right to mention that the CX-30 is not based on any of the current Mazda SUV being sold today, including the China-only CX-4. The CX-30 is formed on an entirely new platform, the same that underpins the new-generation Mazda3, albeit a shortened version.

Much has been said about the size — more significant than the CX-3, smaller than the CX-5 — but the shortened overall length compared with the Mazda3 does come as a surprise. The Mazda3 measures 4,600mm from nose to tip with a wheelbase of 2,725mm. In comparison, the CX-30 stops that tape at 4,395mm with a wheelbase of 2,655mm. The reduction in length allows for better manoeuvrability in the city, as mentioned by Mazda Motor Corp’s Programme Manager.

Yet, the CX-30 is taller and has more boot space, although both vehicles share the same 1,795mm width. Clearly, the CX-30 rides 40mm higher than the Mazda3. Although 40mm may seem small, it could be the difference between ‘just made it’ and ‘scrapped the undercarriage’.

Being a new-generation vehicle, the CX-30 is appropriately specced with quality trim and materials that elevate it past other Japanese makes. The compact SUV comes in two trim levels — base and High.

The more salient features in both trim levels are interior LED lighting, colour windshield-projection heads-up display, Mazda Connect Infotainment System with Voice Command, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 8.8-inch full-colour display, Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio capability, and reverse camera.

While it may seem to be packed with features, the base spec does seem to lack a thing or two. The base CX-30 does not come with paddle shifters, dual-zone climate control, rear air vents, auto-dimming rearview mirror, lit sun visor with vanity mirror and powered driver’s seat — you can find them all in the High spec. The base spec seats are wrapped in fabric as opposed to the High’s leather.

The split between the specification can also be seen on the outside. The High spec CX-30 comes with LED headlights with Front Signature Illumination, LED daytime running lights, rear LED with rear signature illumination, power sunroof with sliding & tilt glass, power tailgate and front & rear parking sensors. The base spec does not have keyless entry.

Nevertheless, the standard exterior features are impressive. The CX-30 has rain-sensing windshield wipers, auto headlights, auto headlights levelling and auto fold side mirrors.

When it comes to the safety system, Mazda doesn’t skimp. No matter the trim level, the CX-30 is fitted with seven SRS airbags, Anti-lock Braking System, Dynamic Stability Control, Traction Control System, Emergency Stop Signal, Hill Launch Assist, Auto-hold Function, Auto Door Lock, seat belt warning for front and rear, ISOFIX and engine-immobiliser anti-theft system.

The High spec’s safety system is further enhanced with Mazda’s i-Activsense. This includes Adaptive Front-Lighting System, High Beam Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning System, Lane-Keep Assist System, Driver Attention Alert, front and rear Smart Brake Support and Mazda Radar Cruise Control.

The CX-30 gets motivation from one of two engines — the 2.0-litre petrol and 1.8-litre diesel. The 2.0-litre petrol Skyactiv-G engine is something we’re familiar with. It produces 162hp at 6,000rpm and 213Nm at 4,000rpm. The engine is mated to a six-speed automatic that sends power only to the front wheels. The SUV with the petrol engine will do 6.4l per 100km and has a top speed of 196kph.

The 1.8-litre Skyactiv-D diesel is new to Malaysia; we’re more familiar with the 2.2-litre diesel that’s currently powering some of the CX-5 here. This engine produces 114hp at 4,000rpm and 270Nm between 1,600rpm to 2,600rpm. Power goes through a six-speed automatic and to the front wheels. The engine’s economy is rated at 4.9l per 100km and has a top speed of 183kph.

The Mazda CX-30 starts its pricing from RM143,059 for the 2.0G, RM164,059 for the 2.0G High and RM172,943.60 for the 1.8D High. As with all new Mazda vehicles, the CX-30 is packaged with a 5-year/100,000km Manufacturer’s Warranty and 5-year/100,000km Free Maintenance, the latter includes labour, parts and lubricants.

We’ve sampled the CX-30 with both engines; impressions will come soon.