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Mazda CX-30 Review

A compact crossover SUV designed for small families and urbanites.

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Ben Gribbin

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Mazda is launching a crossover SUV that bridges the gap between two of its best-selling models, the CX-5 and the CX-3. The small SUV is called the CX-30, and it looks like it could be a sure-fire hit for the carmaker.

Here's what you need to know about the car, which has been likened to a jacked-up Mazda 3.

What's the big deal with this smaller SUV? According to Mazda, it offers potential car buyers more choice – especially when it comes to size. The smaller CX-3 is based upon the Mazda 2, while the larger CX-5 shares its architecture with the Mazda3 and 6. The CX-30 is built around the very popular Mazda3 hatch.

It isn't just a Mazda3 with taller suspension though, it has a larger boot and sits about 100mm higher. Crucially for the car, the roofline is lower than most of its rivals, meaning it'll be decent for anyone who regularly has to park in a multi-storey.

Mazda CX-30 interior

Key 2020 Mazda CX-30 statistics

Engine2.0-litre (or 2.5-litre) petrol four-cylinder
TransmissionSix-speed SKYACTIVE-DRIVE automatic
Max. Power2.0-litre: 114kW; 2.5-litre: 139kW
Max. Torque2.0-litre: 200Nm; 2.5-litre: 252Nm
Boot capacity430-litres

What we are looking forward to

What makes the CX-30 different from rivals?

  • Dimensions. For some buyers, the CX-3 might be a little too snug, while the CX-5 could be overkill. The CX-30 has near hatch like dimensions, making it ideal for city-dwellers, couples or young families.
  • Boot. You might not think it, but having a roomy boot is actually pretty exciting. How many times have you moved house or wanted to cram three trolleys worth of Ikea boxes into your boot, only to find things won't comfortably fit? The CX-30 gives you 430 litres of boot space with underfloor storage. The bigger CX-5 only has an extra 12 litres, while the CX-3 has a class-appropriate (but comparatively titchy) 264 litres.
  • Mazda styling. The CX-30 makes some of its rivals look quite outmoded, thanks to the stylish and high-brow Mazda design language. We love those purposeful plastic wheel arch fenders. They should help deflect runaway trolleys and gravel.
  • AWD and trim levels. It sounds cliché, but there is a CX-30 for almost any buyer. For those who want a frugal daily driver, there are the G20 models, with a 2.0-litre petrol. Broken down further, there are entry-spec models, which still boast a serious complement of safety assists. Then there are the higher-tier models with dual-zone climate, leather seats and other passenger comforts. Finally, there's the option to go for the 2.5-litre petrol and unlock the possibility of AWD, rather than just FWD.

What we are keen to test

  • Practicality. It's ok saying there's a decent-sized boot as well as excellent interior fitments, but we want to test the car's practicality and ease of use. We'll discover how well the CX-30 ticks the boxes for a real-world, everyday consumer.
  • SKYACTIV-X. Mazda's next-generation engine, the more efficient SKYACTIV-X line should be coming later this year. We're keen to get our hands on one of the updated models.

It looks good, seems realistically priced and appears to fill a gap in Mazda's line-up.

Reviews are coming in already for the CX-30 and it seems that the CX-30 is winning over motoring journalists. They too appreciate its elegant exterior and interior, the equipment levels and peppy ride dynamics.

We look forward to getting our hands on the Mazda CX-30 when we can.

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