

Thanks to the increased ride height and 16-inch alloys’ thick rubber, CX-30 soaks up road imperfections admirably. NVH levels are good however, some engine noise permeated the cabin during and after completing overtaking manoeuvres as the six-speeder responded in a seemingly slow fashion to select a higher ratio when returning to the left lane. The long-distance journey was ultimately a comfortable one. The four-cylinder mill’s outputs of 121 kW and 213 N.m of torque, available from 6 000 r/min and 4 000 r/min respectively, did a commendable job at keeping the Mazda at a constant cruise at the national limit as well as when added pace was required for overtaking. The 2,0-litre naturally aspirated motor and six-speed self-shifter work well together.

On a 400 km round trip, the Mazda performed just as well as in urban environments. Although riding 175 mm from the tarmac, body lean is well contained when cornering. The steering is well-weighted and the chassis feels agile. On-road, the Mazda CX-30 adheres to its brief as a more dynamically inclined crossover. The driver’s pew offers height adjustment while the leather multifunction steering wheel is adjustable for both rake and reach, giving the driver a clear view of the instruments and standard head-up display. Dialling in the preferred driving position is a cinch. The seats of Active variants are upholstered in cloth and are comfortable enough. The cabin is neatly trimmed in myriad soft-touch materials, including on areas such as the facia and door cards. Perceived interior build quality is commendable. Sited on opposite sides of the lower bumper are LED foglamps. Flanking the large radiator grille, this entry-level derivative’s slim headlamps house automatic LED units (rain-sensing wipers are standard, too). The Kodo (“Soul of Motion”) design language endowing the latest Mazdas is arguably one of the most stunning works of exterior design in this ever-competitive segment. Dressed in Soul Red Crystal body hue, replete with Grey Metallic alloy wheels, the CX-30 in Active specification level cuts a dashing figure.
