Remember that mysterious model that Mazda was teasing prior to the start of the 2019 Geneva Motor Show? Well, here it is out in the open. It’s called the Mazda CX-30, and contrary to what we believed, it isn’t the second-generation CX-3. Instead, it is a new SUV model that occupies the space between the CX-3 and the larger CX-5.
At this point, you’re probably thinking why Mazda didn’t just call it the CX-4, but if you’ll recall, such a model already exists exclusively for the Chinese market (allegedly for now). As we’ve yet to see the CX-4 be sold outside the republic, we can deduce that the CX-30 is what markets like Europe will be getting instead.
With that out of the way, let’s talk dimensions. Mazda says the CX-30 measures 4,395 mm long, 1,795 mm wide, 1,540 mm high and has 2,655 mm wheelbase. Pulling the figures for the CX-3 (4,275 mm long, 1,765 mm wide, 1,535 mm high, 2,570 mm wheelbase) and CX-5 (4,550 mm long, 1,840 mm wide, 1,675 mm high, 2,700 mm wheelbase) reaffirm the CX-30’s positioning.
For the sake of comparison, the CX-4 is 4,633 mm long, 1,840 mm wide, 1,535 mm high and has a 2,700 mm wheelbase.
Like the new Mazda 3, the CX-30 is the second model from the Japanese carmaker to adopt the latest evolution of its Kodo design philosophy. The front-end may have a whiff of the CX-5 in its look, but there are some noticeable differences like the chrome grille trim that leads deeper into the slim headlamps.
The bottom half of the bumper is also fully black compared to the half-and-half of the CX-5, and sports a larger lower intake and two LED “slits” which appear to act as the fog lamps.
However, it is from the side where the disparity is made even more obvious. For starters, there’s the “S shape” seen on the door panels, which Mazda says is influenced by the brushwork used in Japanese calligraphy.
The use of empty space (Yohaku), curves with poise and balance (Sori) and play of light and shadow (Utsoroi) are the three key tenets for Kodo 2.0, and as we’ve seen on the Vision Coupe Concept, allows for changes in reflections on the body when the car is in motion or when the light source is moved around it.
The CX-30 also adopts a sloping roofline more akin to a coupe, as well as steeply raked (and rather narrow) C-pillars. Meanwhile the black body cladding along the wheel arches and the lower sides are much more prominent than those on the CX-5.
In terms of colour options, Mazda says there are nine options available, including its unique Soul Red Crystal, Machine Grey and Polymetal Grey. There are also 16- and 18-inch wheels to choose from.
At the back, the rakish rear window meets up with a vertically inclined, powered tailgate, which has an opening width of 1,020 mm and loading height of 731 mm, providing access to 430 litres of boot space.
As for the bottom half of the rear, you’ll find more black cladding and a pair of exhausts. The taillights, we’ve seen in the prior teaser, feature a cylindrical design with trailing edges leading into the tailgate.
Moving inside, you’ll find a dashboard layout that looks almost identical to the Mazda 3, although the upper area gets a wind-shaped hood that runs the width of the dash, further emphasised by topstitching.
The usual gamut of Mazda technologies like the Active Driving Display, analogue and digital dials in the instrument cluster, 8.8-inch primary display, MZD Connect infotainment system and audio systems (standard 8-speaker configuration and Bose 12-speaker setup) are all available.
Safety-wise, the CX-30 gets the same kit from the Mazda 3, with seven airbags (including for the driver’s knee) and Mazda’s i-Activsense suite. The latter includes a Driver Monitoring system, Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA) and Cruising & Traffic Support (CTS) – a form of low-speed adaptive cruise control.
Powertrain options include the latest SkyActiv range of petrol and diesel engines, including the Spark Controlled Compression Ignition (SPCCI) technology. Petrol powerplants come with Mazda’s M Hybrid system, which operates on a 24-volt mild hybrid system.
Six-speed automatic and manual transmissions will also be offered, along with the option of Mazda’s i-Activ AWD system; Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC Plus) comes as standard.
The CX-30 is built on the company’s SkyActiv-Vehicle Architecture, and features a body that uses a straight framework and continuous ring structures. This, along with the use of ultra-hightensile steel rated at up to 1,310 MPa, allows for a lightweight, high-rigidity body design. The suspension uses MacPherson struts in the front and a torsion beam setup in the rear.
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Mazda used to be a dead brand 10 years ago. Then the Japanese decided to work hard and put in long hours, they slogged and came out with the SkyActive engine.
Today, Mazda is a big success. This shows, hard work really pays. Other car companies should emulate Mazda!
Those who works hard, come out with this beautiful CX-30. Those who sembang and goyang kaki in opis, only rebadges Mazda 2.
Mazda did not SUDDENLY decided to work hard etc etc. It was Ford (which owned 33% stake) that was hampering Mazda. Basically the old Mazda produced during that time was basically a Ford. Those old enough can remember that you can buy Ford parts as substitute for Mazda parts.
Mazda went back to it’s roots & core philosophy only after Ford divested out. It was then they reinvented the entire product line & had the innovative Skyactive engine.
Volvo too was screwed up by Ford. When Ford took over, they took a butchers knife & slashed Volvo without mercy. Typical Americans way of corporate business. Luckily Ford divested out & Volvo is now flourishing under the new owner who gave them autonomy. Today they too like Mazda is a (quote) big success.
So, to be (quote) big success, it’s not “the Japanese (race)” factor but good corporate & work culture.
You do not know what you are talking about. Ford saved Mazda in fact the original 2, 3 and 6 were all developed under the ownership of Ford.
(Like) Proton X70.
(Dislike) Mazda CX-30
That rear is some serious fugly shit. Other than that, *yawn*
Work harder
Mazda who had won 2 World Car of the year award including Cx3 who has won world design of the year should seriously consider to hire you as their consultant.
Design is ok for midgets
Dear Mazda,
Pls stop creating another sibling. They are no difference to each other except slight size increase.
While the design is nice but it is too common among them from 3 to 9 model
Ain’t all Mazda looks all de same nowadays. I prefer car markers in the 90’s . All model have their own design & uniqueness.
Well done Mazda
The real game changer with new game changing name. Habisla X70!
God why.. it even looks the same as the rest of the CXs lineup
Wrong naming. Its should be called mazda cx-3a
This car come here, who will buy X70 or X50? Both cars can balik tongsan
lolz
Copy paste: “Mazda whole of last year sales only did 15,000. Proton X70 bookings up to date already reached 20,000. Habislah X70? That’s some strong weed you’re smoking.”
Most premium SUV coming soon.
inb4 Mazda using P1 & Volvo SUV naming convention. Why not just call it CX-3A like smart Chinese residences do?
One hell good looking car.. Just the right size, not to compact like the cx3 and not as bulky as the cx5.
Hope we get a ckd model here, will be priced super competitive then..
Cx5 is bulky outside but small inside, once owner said that exora feels spacious, so….
Really confusing. Should have renamed it as the new 2nd gen CX-3, and the existing CX-3 as CX-2. Makes so much sense because this car has almost exact copy interior of the new 4th Gen Mazda3 (BP), and existing CX-3 is based on Mazda2. Geddit Mazda? Well it’s definitely not coming to Asia so, thank you, next!
In my opinion, the CX3 should instead be CX2 because it’s interior space is only as big as a Mazda2’s. The CX30 is the appropriate CX3.
haha… call la CX-4s or CX-3s also can… see apple..
the CX-4, but if you’ll recall, such a model already exists for the Chinese market (allegedly for now). No alleged, I have seen it on the roads in China and remember telling myself what a handsome car and why they never bring it out to Malaysia. It seems to have a lower and wider stance than a regular SUV, looks even better than the MB GLA.
I think they will have a market here.
Why mazda didn’t call it CX-3A….. (the ones who know will know)
sounds like wd-40
Habislah x70….
Mazda whole of last year sales only did 15,000. Proton X70 bookings up to date already reached 20,000. Habislah X70? That’s some strong weed you’re smoking.
Basically the Cx30 is for people who complained that the Cx3 is too small. The 30 dimensions is somewhat similar to the spacious HRV. But then again over here the CX3 is CBU so how are they going to slot the 30 between the Cx3 and 5 unless they stop importing the Cx3 and just focus on the 30?
Because naming it the CX-4 isn’t innovative #Genius
The goldielocks of mazda suvs
Japanese cars should start to have the arm rest split open in the middle
I like the new CX-30. The black cladding looks a little bit odd in the pictures, but it makes the upper body look slimmer. I have to see it in reality, first. Many reviewers say, that the new Mazda 3 looks in reality also better than on the pictures. We owned a CX-3 as our second car. I very liked it, but especially the boot was quite small. I like that the new CX-30 also has all the technology like real HUD and electric tail gate etc. as the CX-5.
Waiting for Japanese Mazda to copy the sexy design of Alfa Romeo Tonale suv soon
Absolutely spot on. AR Tonale is the darling superstar at 2019 Geneva motor show!
Errr so the CX30 is bigger than the CX3 but smaller than the CX4 and CX5. What about making newer models for in between the CX3 and CX30? And between CX4 and CX5? While they’re at it, why not just make models in between those too? Like BMW, this is getting really silly.
Very un-Mazda like to have torsion beam in rear. Curious why Mazda went torsion beam for new M3 & this CX30. Costing???
The side curves like a lexus .. i loike
Commonn, another SUV that looks same as others SUV’s in its lineup..Same goes to other manufacturers, too many SUV’s.. We want, or at least i want a good looking mpv.. Estima, wish, stream are all outdated, gv smting similar yet better than these ones..
Take a look at the new Kia Grand Carnival. Quite a lot on the road.
Aiyo mazda…better u introduce facelifted mazda2 or 3-door mazda3 instead
Japanese people tend to skip No.4 because the sound of No.4 ”Shi” means death
Just the same old look.. Pretty lame for a big name. I couldnt tell the differences of all the CX model. Size only. Come Mazda.
Goodluck with the white seats ya!
Maxda CX-3 plus