Behind the wheel of the new Mazda CX-30: refined style and comfort on Albania’s winding roads

Travelling over 500 kilometres through the traffic of Tirana and along the scenic, undulating roads of the Albanian highlands is perhaps the best way to understand what a car is capable of. The Mazda CX-30 returns for 2027 with two special editions, the Makoto and the Homura Plus, designed for those seeking an extra touch of personality. On the outside, the flowing lines remain familiar, but what sets it apart are the new colour options on offer, such as Zinc Green (which will be available from 2027) and Aero Grey, as well as the inclusion of roof rails as standard on the Homura Plus.

It is, however, when you step inside that you really appreciate the Japanese brand’s attention to detail. The interior plays on a contrast of materials and textures that is truly delightful. Whilst the Homura Plus focuses on the elegant sophistication of black leather with heated and electrically adjustable seats, the Makoto opts for a bolder combination, alternating beige faux leather with grey denim-style fabrics and suede details. A welcoming cabin, enhanced by silver trim and a 12-speaker Bose sound system that accompanies your drive with consistently crisp sound.

The star of our test drive was the CX-30 in the Makoto trim, fitted with a 2.5 e-Skyactiv G engine producing 140 CV. Behind the wheel of this mild-hybrid model, paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox, Mazda’s SUV reaffirms the qualities that have made it such a success: a raised driving position (though only manually adjustable), almost perfect sound insulation and pleasantly precise steering. The automatic gearbox proved responsive to every press of the accelerator pedal, even when, on an uphill stretch, a bit of oomph was needed to overtake other cars travelling at a slow pace. There are no paddle shifters behind the steering wheel, but simply moving the gear lever to the left activates sequential gear changes. On mountain bends, the suspension worked well, absorbing the unevenness of the road surface, whilst the cylinder deactivation system helped to keep fuel consumption down when travelling at a constant speed.

During our test drive, which took in motorway stretches and winding roads with constantly changing gradients, the on-board computer recorded an average fuel consumption of 7.1 litres per 100 kilometres – a perfectly reasonable figure given the nature of the route. In fact, under the WLTP cycle, Mazda states an average of between 6 and 6.5 per 100 km. When it comes to safety, the car is packed with the latest innovations, from LED matrix headlights that adjust the beam to avoid dazzling oncoming traffic, to the updated automatic braking system designed to protect pedestrians and motorcyclists as well. Another new feature that is sure to be appreciated is the 360° camera, which makes it extremely easy to park the car even in the tightest of spaces.

Available to order from 15 October, the new trim levels sit at the top end of the Hiroshima-based manufacturer’s price list. To add the Makoto version with the 140 cavalli 2.5-litre engine to your garage, it will cost 33,450 euro; this price rises if you opt for the more powerful 186 cavalli variant or all-wheel drive. The Homura Plus, meanwhile, represents the top of the range, with a starting price set at €35,950. It’s a solid option for those looking for a compact SUV that combines everyday practicality with a decidedly premium finish.