The Motoring year has kicked off and we started out the New Year with the launch of Mazda’s new compact offering, the Mazda CX-30. An overcast morning in Johannesburg has us ready to get acquainted with the Japanese second model in its 7th generation line-up. Covid-19 has done a number on many a plans and Mazda isn’t the exception; the CX-30 was supposed to be launched in January 2020. Better late than never it is now officially making its appearance in the South African market.
A flooded segment, with stiff competition I might add, consumers can now look to the Japanese car maker for yet another option. At first glance your brain might register familiarity as it appears to share similarities with siblings Mazda 3 and the bigger CX-5. This is because Mazda has stuck to their winning KODO styling on their entire CX range. One of the simplest, sleek designs around definitely proving the notion of less is more with this sophisticated looking exterior.
The CX-30 is available in three derivatives; Active, Dynamic and Individual, all with automatic transmission and Front Wheel Drive (FWD). Under the hood the CX-30 is powered by a 2.0-litre SKYACTIV-G engine producing 121Kw (at 6000rpm) and 213Nm of torque (at 4000rpm). I know you might be thinking, where is the power? And indeed might feel a little underpowered especially upon lift off, but not every car is made for speed racer, the CX-30 will house a young family starting out or a Gogo and Mkhulu looking to buy down. I still see this vehicle taking you on a relaxed road trip with friends or family safely. Speaking of safety, standard across the range the CX-30 has cool features such as LED Headlamps with Auto levelling; Driver, Passenger, Knee (Driver) Side and curtain airbags and Head-Up Display. So I guess you could say that Mazda has got your back.
My favourite has got to be the uncluttered interior. Again, simplicity and sophistication come into play. The driver centric cockpit, Centre console and door paneling are just the Japanese showing off with this kind of built quality and craftsmanship. You can control what goes on the MZD connect infotainment 8.8-inch Display Screen on the centre console and unfortunately no touchscreen feature; but this is for your own safety according to Mazda. The Active and Dynamic derivatives will feature dark grey cloth seat trim with black and navy blue accents on the dashboard, while the Dynamic will be available with an optional greige cloth seat trim which I do not recommend for families with toddlers; and the Individual is equipped with black leather seats and will feature black and brown accents on the dashboard. Should you expect comfort and spaciousness in the CX-30? Sufficient is the answer, absolutely capable of absorbing those uncomfortable post rain conditions on the road as well.
There are a lot of options in the Compact SUV segment, in an economy where money is tight, consumers are looking for good value for their money. The Mazda CX-30 is definitely a good quality car, the pricing also suits the quality it is offering.
Model & Pricing
- 2.0 Active 6AT R469, 900
- 2.0 Dynamic 6AT R499, 000
- 2.0 Individual 6AT R540, 000
