Review by Veeno Dewan
The2024 CX-30 is a compact CUV offering from Mazda. Its is a cool looking thing with Mazda’s Kodo design language and sleek, muscular lines. New for this model years is the use 2.5L four-cylinder engine for the GX model and the introduction of a new Suna Edition with exclusive Zircon Sand Metallic paint and Terracotta interior trim accents. The GS Luxury Package adds a 10.25-inch centre screen with connectivity; and the GT version now has a wireless charger, off-road navigation, two Type-C USB ports, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Base CX-30’s come with a 2.0-liter 155-horse power four – cylinder under the hood. The GX, GS, and GT trims use a 2.5L four-cylinder engine with 191 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque and includes fuel-saving cylinder deactivation. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard across the rim lines Optional on the GT is a turbocharged 2.5L four-cylinder rated at 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque on regular-grade gasoline, and at 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft on 93-octane gas. All CX-30 models are all-wheel drive. Pricing ranges from $28,150 to $40,700 The price for the GT AWD is $37,550 MSRP. The Suna Turbo AWD 6AT is the priciest at $40,700 plus Freight and PDI at $2,095.
Our 2024 GT version came with standard equipment featuring: SKYACTIV-G 2.5L engine, SKYACTIV-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode and Drive Selection switch, paddle shifters, G-Vectoring Control Plus, 18-inch gunmetal alloy wheels, push button start, Mazda Connect with 8.8-inch display, 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 w/ 12 speakers, automatic climate controls, and advanced keyless entry.
Safety features 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 an available black and brown contrasting trim that looks very cool. Slivers of brushed aluminum trim pieces add a very upmarket feel. The front seat are well designed with just the right amount of cushioning. Certain models do offer heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. Mazda has also added a newly 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 a very useful 572L of space behind the rear seats, this increases 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 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. Yes, additional power would be nice for more top end torque, and an eight or nine – speed transmission would give more flexible gearing, but nothing major here in terms of everyday driving.
The CX-3’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 by the way 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.
2024 Mazda CX-30 GT Turbo: Price as tested: $40,1950 Including freight and PDE.
More info @www.mazda.ca
