Tougher regulation and ‘more realistic’ WLTP fuel economy and emissions testing have put the squeeze on car makers. It’s a huge struggle to get the figures below the line to avoid future (draconian) fines if model range averages are over the limit. This has led some to introduce ‘softer’ cross-over SUVs with a lower roof line.
Partly perhaps, the rationale for Mazda’s CX-30. However sleek the look, total frontal area is key to a car’s aerodynamics. The greater the area the more the drag. The more the drag the heavier the ‘mpg’ and, with that, up too goes the emissions count.
Based on the latest Mazda3 (2019) the CX-30 came soon after for the 2020 model year. Not just here for its looks and mpg/emissions, it fills in between the smaller CX-3 (no longer sold here) and larger CX-5 and also, to an extent, Mazda3 and 6.
Partly perhaps, the rationale for Mazda’s CX-30. However sleek the look, total frontal area is key to a car’s aerodynamics. The greater the area the more the drag. The more the drag the heavier the ‘mpg’ and, with that, up too goes the emissions count.
Based on the latest Mazda3 (2019) the CX-30 came soon after for the 2020 model year. Not just here for its looks and mpg/emissions, it fills in between the smaller CX-3 (no longer sold here) and larger CX-5 and also, to an extent, Mazda3 and 6.
Two engines for this market - both petrol. One is the 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G four-cylinder 122hp unit and the other the unique Skyactiv-X which combines both petrol-type spark ignition and diesel-like compression combustion. Mazda is first to market with such an engine and it’s the 180hp variant (rather than 150hp) which comes here.
Spark ignition is the default for start-up and pulling away yielding to compression in the cruise and for light throttle mode. Accelerate and it’s there again instantly.
A mini-supercharger helps increase air pressure in the cylinders and a self-contained 24V mild hybrid system (recharged by energy regeneration from braking) further lightens engine load. Optimising performance in this way, says Mazda, avoids seeking added boost by fitting a turbocharger.
All Wheel Drive (reserved for Skyactiv-X) follows the familiar pattern - front-drive normally with ‘intelligent’ activation of drive to other wheels on demand. No specific off-road traction aids but the electronics adapt to exploit what grip there might be. It’s for moderate off-road use but all three AWD models have a 6-speed manual gearbox as standard (auto-box an extra cost option).
Unlike most of its competitors (and CX-3; CX-5) you do not step up into the car so seating not ‘SUV-elevated’. Fit and finish is to Mazda’s high standard, interior design clean and ergonomically sound if (on this car) almost out-doing Audi in ‘clinical-cold’. Good level of safety-tech becomes an ‘armoury’ the more you climb the range.
Despite the free-revving willingness of this engine there is no forgetting how well-matched a gutsy ‘torque-laden’ turbo Diesel is to an SUV. Fortunately the six-speed manual ‘box is smooth and slick so it’s no chore to use the rev-range to make progress. Steering is direct, ride-roadholding trade-off nicely judged and fine chassis tuning makes for stability and calm within for both driver and passengers alike.
Model Line-Up: SE-L; SE-L Luv; Sport Lux; GT Sport; GT Sport Tech. £22,895-£33,495. AWD from £29,295 (Sport Lux). Includes 1st yr Road Tax*.
Facts & Figures: GT Sport Tech AWD Manual (£32,545); 127mph; 0-62 in 9 secs; 43.5mpg (official comb); 37.5 (trip computer avge on test); CO2 111g/km; £175 1st Yr* Road Tax £150 thereafter; Ins Grp 22E; Max Braked Trailer Wgt 1,300kg.
Verdict: AWD and ‘X-engine’ available on top model Mazda3 hatch (a bit cheaper) and, at the other end, excellent CX-5 (2.2 diesel) not too far away. SEAT Ateca or Skoda Karoq more immediate compact SUV competition together with VW/Audi equivalents; Volvo’s XC40 also ‘nearby’. All good stuff - deal will clinch it.
By Huw Thomas
First published in Welsh Farmer, the newspaper of the Farmers' Union of Wales
Spark ignition is the default for start-up and pulling away yielding to compression in the cruise and for light throttle mode. Accelerate and it’s there again instantly.
A mini-supercharger helps increase air pressure in the cylinders and a self-contained 24V mild hybrid system (recharged by energy regeneration from braking) further lightens engine load. Optimising performance in this way, says Mazda, avoids seeking added boost by fitting a turbocharger.
All Wheel Drive (reserved for Skyactiv-X) follows the familiar pattern - front-drive normally with ‘intelligent’ activation of drive to other wheels on demand. No specific off-road traction aids but the electronics adapt to exploit what grip there might be. It’s for moderate off-road use but all three AWD models have a 6-speed manual gearbox as standard (auto-box an extra cost option).
Unlike most of its competitors (and CX-3; CX-5) you do not step up into the car so seating not ‘SUV-elevated’. Fit and finish is to Mazda’s high standard, interior design clean and ergonomically sound if (on this car) almost out-doing Audi in ‘clinical-cold’. Good level of safety-tech becomes an ‘armoury’ the more you climb the range.
Despite the free-revving willingness of this engine there is no forgetting how well-matched a gutsy ‘torque-laden’ turbo Diesel is to an SUV. Fortunately the six-speed manual ‘box is smooth and slick so it’s no chore to use the rev-range to make progress. Steering is direct, ride-roadholding trade-off nicely judged and fine chassis tuning makes for stability and calm within for both driver and passengers alike.
Model Line-Up: SE-L; SE-L Luv; Sport Lux; GT Sport; GT Sport Tech. £22,895-£33,495. AWD from £29,295 (Sport Lux). Includes 1st yr Road Tax*.
Facts & Figures: GT Sport Tech AWD Manual (£32,545); 127mph; 0-62 in 9 secs; 43.5mpg (official comb); 37.5 (trip computer avge on test); CO2 111g/km; £175 1st Yr* Road Tax £150 thereafter; Ins Grp 22E; Max Braked Trailer Wgt 1,300kg.
Verdict: AWD and ‘X-engine’ available on top model Mazda3 hatch (a bit cheaper) and, at the other end, excellent CX-5 (2.2 diesel) not too far away. SEAT Ateca or Skoda Karoq more immediate compact SUV competition together with VW/Audi equivalents; Volvo’s XC40 also ‘nearby’. All good stuff - deal will clinch it.
By Huw Thomas
First published in Welsh Farmer, the newspaper of the Farmers' Union of Wales
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