RIDE-CT – Classic Cars Celebrating Classic Cars in Connecticut
EAST HADDAM, CT -As the lines of demarcation continue to blur among automotive categories, the Mazda CX-30 splits the difference between car and crossover. Even though it’s the entry level rung on the Japanese automaker’s utility ladder, it achieves more than anticipated. At least for the most part.
In the words of the company’s press department, “The proportions of the CX-30 are ideal to take on just about any adventure without hesitation. The interior is equipped with many premium features, yet remains spacious, comfortable and encourages conversations with all occupants.”
Unlike more expansive offerings, the subcompact Mazda doesn’t stretch the user interface envelope too far away from automobile origins due to its petite Mazda 3 sedan/hatchback underpinnings.
Well-established, cab-rearward styling offers coupe-like aesthetics that “suggest forward motion,” while simultaneously providing practical utility. Mazda’s signature, fun-to-drive quotient still shines through since the CX-30’s ride height is comparatively low to ensure that the center of gravity remains in check.
Mazda believes that a more “human-centric” approach results in improved driving confidence and peace of mind. In the CX-30’s case, trying to achieve it in the smallest proportions comes with some compromise.
The belt line of the body (where the doors meet the bottom of the side window glass) is rather high, which makes simple tasks like stopping at an ATM or visiting a fast-food drive-thru a little inconvenient. Truth be told, it must add to side impact protection, though.
Meanwhile, the instrument panel is just as tall. Combined with the full haunches of the cab-rearward back-end results in somewhat of a cocoon-like driving experience from the inside looking out. Fortunately, there’s a rear camera which does come in handy.
Other that that, the CX-30 is a delight to take to the twisty Connecticut two-lanes. Mazda remains keen on providing products for enthusiastic drivers instead of pseudo engineers. You don’t have to read the Owner’s Manual to simply figure out how to adjust the radio.
The powertrain on the one I drove is likewise tried and true, being a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder Turbo. That delivered an OK (but not great) 22 City/30 Hwy mpg. The fuel tank holds 12.7 gallons. Being a niche provider, the company has only just begun to delve into the Hybrid domain, starting with the higher end CX-70/90 models.
With a respectable 227-horsepower on tap, along with standard all-wheel drive and a real, 6-speed automatic transmission (instead of a continuously variable CVT) plus 18-inch alloy wheels, the CX-30 thankfully upholds Mazda’s “zoom-zoom,” over-the-road ethos.
The CX-30 is right in the crosshairs of its young and dynamic target audience.
—
Add in the top-of-the-line Premium Plus Package like mine had nd you’ll be coddled with everything from leather-trimmed seats to a 12-speaker, Bose sound system. There’s also a power sliding-glass moonroof and rear privacy glass. The interior is more upscale that you’d imagine for the starter CX.
At a respectable (in this day and age) $37,150 all-in., you can dial that back a bit with lesser option groups on this model that is assembled in Mexico. In fact, the entry price is only $25,195.
In addition to being comfortable, you’ll also be secure in a Mazda CX-30. It comes with blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, radar cruise control, active/adaptive Headlights, lane assist and departure warning and more. The CX-30 is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and has nabbed NHTSA 5-Star Safety honors.
Mazda is on a roll these days due to convincing contenders like the CX-30. Buyers have “embraced the unexpected.” As reported in our recent CX-70 review, sales are up some 20-percent in the U.S. market as a result.
(Photos courtesy of Mazda unless otherwise noted.)
