2020 Mazda CX30 – Test Drive, Reviews, Ratings, Specs
Driven by Emotions
Newest to the Mazda linup is the 5-door CX-30 hatchback subcompact SUV. It’s a mouthful, but it’s essentially based on Mazda 3 engine with a larger 2.5L SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder as opposed to just a 2.0. That boosts the CX-30 power output to a total of 186 horsepower compared to the Mazda 3 with 36 horsepower less.
The CX30 will be the second revision of Mazda’s in-house design rules dubbed “Kodo Design”. The result is a more simplified and contemporary look while retaining the classic front black mesh grille, chrome trimmings and charcoal splash panels.
Purposeful Tranquility
Mazda boasts its engineering prowess put into the cabin space to achieve a quiet and comfortable cabin space. It’s synthetic leather seats are perforated while the dashboard and door panels are stitched in place with high quality vinyl with a cream and dark chocolate color combination.
Available on the CX30 GT Trim under test is the onboard 8.8″ infotainment system powered by the latest Mazda Connect software supporting both Android Auto and Apple Carplay. The new software upgrade has significantly improved response time with a much nicer graphical user interface layout. The center human-control-interface control knob has also been re-designed with larger and flatter shape and better quality.
Opting for the higher GT-trim comes equipped with a 20-speaker BOSE audio system. Mazda touts its engineers have figured out the perfect speaker and sub woofer location to enhance sound characteristics while minimizing rattling vibration from the low bass.
A heads-up display is also available on the GT-Trim that will conveniently display vehicle speed, and navigation directly onto the windshield – a similar technology used in fighter jet cockpits.
Art in Motion
The CX30 gets a peppy 2.5L 4-cylinder produces a mere 186 horsepower and 186 lbs.ft of torque. This translates to a very forward-driven acceleration that’s both smooth and responsive to the throttle. It’s only mated to a 6-speed automatic, and the manual shifts via the steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters aren’t quite as snappy, but it’s still capable of seamless gear changes on its own throughout its torque path.
Cornering capability is helped with Mazda’s in-house G-Vectoring control. This enhances vehicle’s centripetal force by slowing down inside rear wheel while cornering by gently applying braking force on the independent wheel.
The static position of the heads-up display is a pet peeve as lowering the seat position too much results in the instrument panel covering the entire heads-up display on the windshield rending the entire feature useless.
The base CX-30 trim comes configured in FWD configuration while all other trims including the GS and GT trim are offered in AWD configuration.
The Verdict
The Madz CX30 can be had for $36,000 for the highest GT AWD trim. While it’s above the consumer medium, the quality and smooth powertrain justifies its unique pricepoint set just below the luxury price point barrier. Lowering the trim level to the GS cuts out the heads-up display, and rear parking sensors for $6,500, but keeps the peppy 2.5L and AWD configuration.
You can still get the base CX30 trim for $26,625 by downgrading to a smaller 2.0L engine with FWD configuration, but you’ll only be left with just 155 horsepower as opposed to 186. You’ll also lose the G-Vectoring control as well. In all cases, we’d recommend the GS trim the very least to get the full loving Mazda experience.
Specifications
- Vehicle : 2020 Mazda CX30
- Model : GT Trim
- Vehicle Type : 5-door subcompact
- Seating Capacity : 2+3
- Engine : 2.5L 4 Cylinder
- Transmission : 6-speed automatic
- Price as tested: $36,000
Pros
- Simple and Exquisite exterior styling
- Excellent build quality
- Quiet and relaxed cabin space
- Fun and peppy driving experience
Cons
- Lack of Heads up display position causes problems with different seat position confniguration
- G-Vectoring only available on higher GS and GT Trim