Review by Veeno Dewan
The2023 CX-30 is a compact CUV offering from Mazda that slots in between the CX-3 and CX-5. Front- engined with as standard All-Wheel Drive. The CX-30 with its five- door format adopts Mazda’s Kodo design language and is a graceful, lithe- looking vehicle. The CX-30 with a host of standard features, and a choice of either normal or Turbo 4 -cylinder engine. For 2023, the Mazda CX-30’s non-turbo Skyactiv-G 2.5L engine with 5 extra horsepower and slightly lower combined fuel economy rating.
Depending on your CX-30 trim, there are three Mazda Skyactiv different engines available to choose. The base CX-30 GX come with a 2.0-liter 155-horse power four-cylinder unit under the hood. The GS or GT version adds a 2.5-liter 186-horsepower engine. Meanwhile the CX-30 GT Turbo arrives with 250 horsepower unit. A six-speed transmission is standard. Models start with the GX: $27,050, GS: $30,350, GT $36,550 and the GT Turbo at $38,950 plus options, destination, and taxes. Note that all CX-30 Models arrive with i- Active AWD as standard issue which is an excellent addition o n Mazda’s part.
Our 2023 GT Turbo AWD version (base priced at $38,550) came with standard equipment featuring: SKYACTIV-G 2.5L engine with Dynamic pressure turbo,, SKYACTIV-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode and Drive Selection switch, and paddle shifters. There is also: G-Vectoring Control Plus, 18-inch gunmetal alloy wheels, push button start, Mazda Connect with 8.8-inch display. As standard is the HMI commander, rear-view camera, power moonroof, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, leather-trimmed upholstery, 10-way power driver seat (includes power lumbar support), and full LED exterior lighting. Also added was navigation system, Bose Audio system with 12 speakers, automatic climate controls, advanced keyless entry, and a power liftgate.
Comprehensive safety features on the GT Turbo included: Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Pedestrian Detection, High Beam Control, Forward Obstruction Warning, Smart City Brake Support, Smart Brake Support, Smart Brake Support Rear, Smart Brake Support Rear-Crossing, rear parking sensors, colour windshield-projected Active Driving Display.
The interior layout is as usual typical Mazda with its sports orientated neat, uncluttered design. There is a nice sporty gauge cluster and the dash is a of a multi-tier two tone design with a contrasting trim that looks very cool. Slivers of brushed aluminum trim pieces add a very upmarket feel. I also liked the use of supple leather type material instead of hard plastics used in the cabin doors, dash, and center armrest. The front seat are well designed with just the right amount of cushioning. Mazda has an updated version of its infotainment system, using a high resolution 8.8-inch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android.
Rear seating position is excellent as well with good headroom. However, legroom for adult passengers is a bit tight. Cargo capacity is an especially useful 572L of space behind the rear seats, this increases to 1,280L with the back seats folded down. Rear cargo access is via a generously wide door and a low load floor to make it easier to place large and heavy items.
On the road, the CX-30 Turbo is a joy to drive. The sporty exhaust note, willing drivetrain and deft, nippy handling means an entertaining drive all the time. The addition of i-ACTIV all-wheel-drive ensures stability in all conditions. Meanwhile, the six-speed automatic transmission delivers power to all four wheels via Mazda’s i-Activ intelligent on-demand all-wheel-drive system. Acceleration is good on highways, the SKYACTIV engines light weight and advanced engineering coupled with a well- geared transmission means the CX-30 feels willing all the time. Yes, additional power would be nice for more top end torque, but nothing major here in terms of everyday sporty or around town driving.
The CX-30’s sport driving experience is enhanced by the Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control system Plus, which reduces engine torque, and adjusts steering and throttle inputs to add slight weight on the front wheels to make the steering feel firmer and more direct. The result is sharpened handling during cornering, keeping understeer under control. The all-wheel-drive system offer superb traction. The suspension is taut, offering minimal body roll, while the responsive steering offers agile handling, the hallmark of all Mazda’s. There are paddle shifters and a Sport mode, which does ratchet up the response by holding the gears longer. With the help of cylinder deactivation, the CX-30 is able to achieve fuel consumption ratings of 10.5 L/100km city and 7.9L/100km highway. Not a lot to complain about – If you are in the market for a sporty, fun- to drive smaller compact CUV – The CX-30 is worth taking a look at. Highly recommended.
2023 Mazda CX-30 GT Turbo AWD: Price as tested: $43,250 Including options, freight and PDE.
More info @www.mazda.ca
