The sheer effortlessness of Mazda’s KODO design philosophy must be the envy of the entire motor industry. The manner by which it is able to make each successive model look as though its body panels have been formed in molten metal, finished in paint that is so light reflective that it still looks wet, is both subjectively attractive and something at which to marvel. That Mazda remains independent as a world carmaker, in an industry that demands strategic partnerships, and can suffer from a shortage of resources for new model developments, makes the magical CX-30 all the more special.
Central to its arrival is the latest technological development in the form of the Skyactiv-X engine. Intriguingly, although petrol powered, the unit embodies a lot of compression-ignition diesel technology. Due to its unique combustion method, by which spark plug ignition is used to control compression ignition, the resultant efficiency means that the 177bhp petrol engine delivers diesel rivalling fuel economy, combined with low CO2 emissions and exceptionally flexible performance. With CO2 emissions as low as 105g/km and WLTP combined fuel consumption posted at 47.9mpg, the Skyactiv-X engine is the ideal response for both private and company car customers.
Interestingly, Mazda is not ditching diesel and is continuing the development of next-generation clean diesel engines for several markets. However, the abilities of Skyactiv-X and the diminishing consumer demand for diesel engines mean that, in the UK, the Mazda CX-30 will be sold exclusively in petrol form. The new engine is supplemented by the 2.0-litre 119bhp Skyactiv-G (also petrol) alternative.
The line-up of 26 model variants, which can be ordered now, starts with SE-L trim, progressing to SE-L Lux, Sport Lux, GT Sport and GT Sport Tech, with a choice of fully automatic, or 6-speed manual gearboxes. While the standard alloy wheel size is 16.0-inches diameter, all versions from Sport Lux obtain 18.0-inch upgrades which fill the wheel-arches better. The slim head and jewel-like tail-light units are all LED type.
Crack open the driver’s door and the reassuring whiff of hide upholstery on GT Sport/GT Sport Tech versions emanates from a most elegant but thoroughly conventional cabin. High-quality dark grey cloth, with dark blue accents, is standard. However, CX-30 features a generous standard equipment tally across the entire model range, each version featuring a colour, windscreen projected, head-up display, radar cruise control, climate control and the customary raft of driver safety and connectivity options.
Cabin space is also generous, with copious amounts of head, hip and legroom in the front seats and abundant space in the rear, supported by a 430-litre boot that can be extended easily to almost treble the CX-30’s carrying capacity. This new model represents another confident step in Mazda’s high value-for-money remit.
