2020 Mazda CX-30: First impression

The SUV space has swollen in size in the last decade emerging as an expansive segment with multiple layers within it. While compact models are identified as rugged vehicles for large families, the premium SUVs are more luxurious and comfortable at the same time. Over the years, this segment has witnessed immense growth with new entrants jumping on the bandwagon year by year. Speaking of Mazda CX-30, Malaysia has received the updated 2020 version, available in three variants with a choice of petrol and diesel engines.

All three variants are imported as completely built units (CBU). The SUV fills the void between CX-3 and CX-5 in Mazda Malaysia range of SUVs. With the recent updates, the CX-30 gets better with new features added to the already long equipment list. It carries over the stunning looks, further enhanced by a bunch of new elements. The insides are plush and upmarket, as expected from SUVs in the premium segment. This and a lot more is new on the refreshed CX-30. To give you an up-close insight into what’s new, here are our first impressions.

2020 Mazda CX-30 - Design & exterior styling

Let us first go through the dimensions, and other details of the 2020 Mazda CX-30 before discussing design and styling.

Length	4,395 mm
Width	1,795 mm
Height	1,549 mm
Wheelbase	2,665 mm
Kerb weight	1,514 kg

On the outside, it carries over the basic silhouette and design from the pre-update version. A complete eye-catcher, the CX-30 shuns onlookers with its modish looks, and commanding road presence. At the face, there are LED headlamps with auto-levelling, LED daytime running lights, pulled-back headlamps, and a low slung bonnet mostly found in premium models.

The sides equip 16-inch alloy wheels, while the major highlight remains the body cladding finished in black. Moving to the back, it is highlighted by wrap-around tail lamps with captivating LEDs. Other elements, such as a roof spoiler, sharp creases, and subtle chrome accent add a sporty flair to it. Meanwhile, the higher variants additionally get automatic beam function and signature illumination for the headlamps, larger 18-inch alloy wheels, powered sunroof, and powered tailgate along with six rear parking sensors.

What is the new CX-30 cabin like?

The insides now get silver trims on the dashboard, while seats are still covered with the fabric upholstery. The standard kit on the inside includes a manual air conditioner system, manually adjusted front seats, a heads-up display with windshield projection function, and keyless start.

A large 8.8-inch display Mazda connect infotainment system with Commander Control sits inside. It comes with eight speakers and is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Next on the equipment list if the i-Stop idling technology with a reverse camera. The higher variants benefit from some exclusive features such as 10-way adjustable powered driver seat with memory function, leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and paddle shifters.

2020 Mazda CX-30 specs & engine details

Engine	2.5L, four-cylinder, DOHC petrol	1.8L, four-cylinder turbodiesel
Power	163 HP at 6,000 rpm	114 HP at 4,000 rpm
Torque	213 Nm at 4,000 rpm	270 Nm from 1,600 to 2,700 rpm
Transmission	SKYACTIV-Drive4 six-speed AT	SkyActive-Drive six-speed AT
Top Speed	196 km/h	183 km/h

The 2020 Mazda CX-30 specs sheet includes a petrol and turbodiesel unit with a standard six-speed auto box which sends drive to the front wheels and gets G-Vectoring Control Plus across the variants. Going by numbers, the petrol version is more powerful than the diesel unit, and offers a higher top-speed.

What is the rated fuel consumption for new Mazda CX-30?

The rated fuel consumption for the four-cylinder, DOHC petrol engine is 6.4 l/100 km, and 4.9 l/km for the turbodiesel engine. It means the diesel engine is more fuel-efficient in comparison to the petrol unit, hence if mileage is one of the priorities on your list, you know which variant to pick.

2020 Mazda CX-30 safety kit

The standard safety kit on the new and improved five-seater SUV comprises of the following features-

• Dual front airbags
• Side airbags
• Curtain airbags
• Driver side knee airbag
• Anti-lock-braking system
• Electronic brakeforce distribution
• Hill launch assist
• ISOFIX child seat anchors
• Auto hold for electric parking brake
• Dynamic stability control
• Traction control system

While these features are standard, there are some advanced safety amenities reserved only for the 2.0G High and 1.8D High variants.

• Adaptive front-lighting system
• High beam control
• Blind spot monitoring
• Lane departure warning system
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Driver attention alert
• Smart city brake support (front & rear)
• Mazda radar cruise control

What is the 2020 Mazda CX-30 price in Malaysia?

The updated Mazda CX-30 is available in two petrol and a solo diesel variant with a standard six-speed automatic transmission. The Mazda CX-30 price break for the entire line-up is mentioned in the table below.

Variant	Price
Mazda CX-30 2.0G	RM 143,059
Mazda CX-30 2.0G High	RM 164,059
Mazda CX-30 1.8D High	RM 172,944

Out of the three variants, the diesel-powered grade carries the highest pricing at RM 172,944, while the entry-level petrol trim is available at RM 143,059. In addition, it can be availed with a five-year/100,000 km manufacturer-backed warranty along with a free maintenance package for a period of five years.

Verdict

The updated five-seater CX-30 gets more aggressive visually while maintaining the charm from the previous version. On the inside, it looks premium with a top-notch fit, finishes and material quality, transforming the cabin into a comfortable space of the occupants. It is further enriched by the long list of equipment including the latest connectivity, comfort, and driver assistance features. Also, the safety suite is comprehensive with most of the active features standardized across the range. Brimming with the feature, the impressive 2020 CX-30 comes in three variants, routed to Malaysia as CBUs. This shoots up the pricing a tad with the range starting from RM 143,059 and going up to RM 172,944. Overall, Mazda CX-30 is a visual delight, and at the same time offers a comfortable cabin experience to the occupants. If you don’t mind spending this much amount, it is a great option in the segment.

Also Read: Mazda, to shift production of CX-3 from Thailand to Japan