Mazda CX-30 revealed: 2019 Geneva Motor Show

MAZDA has expanded its successful SUV line-up, revealing the all-new CX-30 in Geneva.

Sitting between the CX-3 and CX-5, the CX-30 is the fifth high-rider in Mazda’s line-up.

Contrary to pre-Geneva speculation, the CX-30 is not just a CX-3 with a sloping coupe-esque roof; instead the new model offers a genuine improvement in size compared to the smallest SUV in Mazda’s range.

Retaining Mazda’s iconic ‘Kodo’ design language, the CX-30 borrows the CX-3’s plastic wheel arch cladding, but mimics the silhouette of the CX-5.

In terms of size, the CX-30 fits in between the CX-3 and CX-5, with a 4395mm overall length, and 2655mm wheelbase. Mazda claims ground clearance for the CX-30 is 175mm, 15mm more than the CX-3, and 35mm less than the CX-5

MacPherson strut suspension is used on the front axle, while a simpler torsion beam set-up is used on the rear.

There is no word on Australian specification yet, however European cars will be available with a trio of engines - a SkyActiv-G 2.0-litre petrol, SkyActiv-D 1.8-litre diesel, and Mazda’s new compression ignition SkyActiv-X petrol (with an undisclosed capacity). No power outputs have been released.

Both the SkyActiv-G and SkyActiv-X engines are fitted with Mazda’s M Hybrid system in overseas markets, improving fuel economy. However, it is unclear if this will be retained for Australia.

Along with a trio of engines, Mazda will offer both six-speed manual and automatic gearboxes in overseas markets. It is uncertain if both of these will make it to Australia, as a three-pedal transmission is only offered on the entry-level CX-5 Maxx locally. However, all CX-3 variants bar the flagship Akari LE can be fitted with a manual.

Both all-wheel-drive and front-wheel-drive variants will be offered, with the former receiving a number of tweaks to improve torque distribution and reduce overall mechanical losses.

Included in the CX-30 is the next generation of Mazda’s G-Vectoring system, GVC Plus. Also fitted to the new Mazda 3, GVC Plus uses the brakes to smooth out lateral movements during cornering.

A full suite of safety features are fitted to the CX-30 as part of the company’s i-Activsense suite, including a driver monitoring system, front cross traffic alert, and Mazda’s ‘cruising and traffic support system’ which assists with accelerator, brake pedal, and steering inputs in traffic jams.

Using the new Mazda 3 as a guide, it’s likely most, if not all, safety tech will be fitted as standard on every variant.

Both the CX-3 and CX-5 have been sales successes for Mazda, with the latter predicted to overtake the Mazda 3 as the brand’s most popular model in the next year or two.

In 2018, the CX-3 and CX-5 were responsible for 16,293 and 26,173 registrations respectively, with the larger CX-8 and CX-9 siblings accounting for 1150 and 8094 sales.

Pricing, local specification, and variants will be revealed closer to the Australian launch.

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