Mazda CX-30

Despite its shortened length and wheelbase, the inside of the CX-30 is surprisingly still spacious but is still relatively cramped for a crossover SUV. Luckily, the headroom is more than enough for the average Filipino passenger. The design of the interior still follows the minimalist style of the exterior but was also intended to have ergonomic properties. This makes the cabin very driver-oriented and convenient to navigate. Both the seats as well as the knobs and buttons are wrapped in soft leather, giving the vehicle a luxurious feel. Similar to the Mazda 3, the dashboard also includes an 8.8-inch non-touchscreen infotainment system. Overall, the cargo space can accommodate 430 liters, which is still 72 liters more compared to the Mazda 3. 

The CX-30 has numerous style inspirations. The design of the vehicle takes heavy cues from the Mazda 3 as well as Mazda’s Kodo Soul of Motion design philosophy. It sports both minimal lines and sleek, reflective curves that are inspired by the brushwork in traditional Japanese calligraphy, specifically the principle of Utsuroi which is the interplay of light and shadows. The bottom rear is wrapped in black plastic cladding which initially seems like an odd style choice, but somehow the CX-30 manages to make it work. To top it off are adjustable LED headlights. These definitely make the CX-30 one of the best-looking crossovers on the market, though its shorter length and wheelbase can be a bit of a drawback.

Due to the all-wheel-drive system, the vehicle does have some added weight to it. However, the 6-speed automatic transmission does its job and makes driving the CX-30 intuitive and tractable. However, the weight can be felt when pushing down on the accelerator. Compared to the Mazda 3, it doesn’t build up speed as quickly. Steering isn’t as precise or smooth as other crossover SUVs and may require some hard tugs just to get it to maneuver as quickly. But the 175 mm ground clearance is quite generous and manages to absorb bumps well. The standard Dunlop tires also ensure excellent grip. Fuel economy is relatively efficient with around 7.8 kmpl when in heavy traffic, 10.1 kmpl in light traffic, and 14.28 kmpl while cruising on the highway.

The CX-30 is powered by a 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G mill that can also be found in the Mazda 3. It is capable of producing 153 hp and 200 Nm of torque which sends power to the wheels through a 6-speed SkyActiv-Drive automatic transmission. It also offers both all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive.

The CX-30 is equipped with a complete set of airbags for both the driver and passengers, as well as side airbags for the front. Standard safety features include an anti-lock braking system with electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist, a vehicle stability control system, day and night rearview mirror, a rear camera, crash sensor, front and side-impact beams, and traction control. The vehicle also comes with G-Vectoring Control Plus which regulates the delivery of torque in each wheel for safe cornering even on harsh roads.

The main strength of the Mazda CX-30 is its ability to feel like a premium crossover SUV without the heavy price tag that comes with it. Those who remember the initial launch of the model five years ago will recall how the biggest setback was its too-small size and a hefty price. Mazda has definitely made significant improvements in terms of cargo space, but it does still feel a bit more cramped compared to other crossovers. The CX-30 is definitely an ambitious attempt by Mazda to finally penetrate the segment- and this time it might actually succeed. The Mazda CX-30 starts at P1.49 million.