Mazda unveiled the second next-generation model underpinned by the Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture: the CX-30. Poised to replace the CX-3 sub-compact SUV or at least positioned above it, the 2019 CX-30 grows significantly from its current size while taking on a bolder design concept and sportier driving dynamics, both hallmarks of the Mazda brand.
With the CX-30, Mazda designers blends two seemingly contradictory elements: the flowing beauty of a coupe and the bold toughness of an SUV. The front features the brand’s signature wing but made deeper and sharper, blending with solid, sculpted contours of the bumper. Within the grille itself, the triangular motif is tightly controlled, spaced in a way that it conveys various forms when viewed from different angles and how light falls upon it. To the side, the CX-30 takes on the same Yohaku or beauty of empty space found in the Mazda3. Lines have been omitted and instead, it uses the movement of surfaces to create a sense of dynamism. At the back, the rear fenders are made to widen and the tailgate itself has a narrowed arched shape. Nine colors are available including Polymetal Gray which wheel sizes are either 215/65 R16s or 215/55 R18s.
Dimensionally, the CX-30 is longer (4,395 mm versus 4,275 mm) and wider (1,795 mm versus 1,765 mm) than the current CX-3. It keeps the same overall height (1,540 mm), but ground clearance is higher at 175 mm (versus 160 mm). Interestingly, the wheelbase, 2,655 mm approaches levels close to the CX-5’s 2,700 mm.
Inside, the CX-30 takes the same minimalist approach. Again, Mazda designers have incorporated two contrasting characteristics—a snug cockpit area for the driver and a clean, airy space for the passengers. Compared to the CX-3, the CX-30 features a wider distance between the front seats while also accommodating a wide center console and center armrest. The rear seats are also more spacious with better head- and legroom than before. In terms of luggage space, it can accommodate 430 liters of cargo with an available power tailgate to boot.
Using the same Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture as the Mazda3, the CX-30 uses more high-strength steel than ever before. In fact, steel rated at 980 MPa accounts for approximately 30 percent of the body. Plus, a two-walled construction should make for good NVH insulation. The front suspension uses a independent MacPherson Strut while at the back is Torsion Beam Axle with a spherical shape to realize a lag-free and linear action.
In terms of engines, it’s made available with a variety of 4-cylinder engines including the Skyactiv-X. Other engines on offer are the 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G with cylinder deactivation and the 1.8-liter Skyactiv-D. For both the Skyactiv-X and Skyactiv-G, it comes with Mazda’s M Hybrid system for better fuel economy gains. The CX-30 also comes with i-Activ AWD with G-Vectoring Control Plus torque vectoring system. The transmission choices (depending on the engine) are a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic.
The introduction of the CX-30 likely means that Mazda will be busy reshuffling its SUV line-up. Currently, the CX-30 will be sold alongside the CX-3 and CX-5 SUVs, but in the long term, it is more likely that it will replace the CX-3 while a new, smaller SUV will slot beneath it.
Europe will be the first market to get the CX-30 and the first batch of units are slated to arrive there by the middle of the year. However, since this is a new core model for Mazda, it will be destined for all global markets including the Philippines.
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