Mazda CX-30 MY 2025, how the SUV goes against the grain

In an era dominated by 'downsizing', with small turbocharged three-cylinders promising low fuel consumption and instant torque, Mazda in its own way 'doesn't give a damn' about fashions and continues to follow its own path. In fact, the new CX-30 adopts a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder combined with a 24-volt mild-hybrid system.

An undoubtedly courageous choice, but one that fits perfectly into the brand's philosophy: the so-called 'right sizing', i.e. the right displacement, proportionate to the car and not artificially reduced.

The numbers speak for themselves: 238 hp and 240 Nm of torque (238 Nm to be exact), available as early as 3,000 rpm, but with 200 Nm ready as early as 1,500. It means a full, supple engine that responds well at all rpm without the need for forcing.

The mild-hybrid, discreet but effective, reduces fuel consumption and eases the strain on the engine, especially in city driving. Official figures speak of a saving of 1.6 per cent in the mixed cycle and up to 7 per cent on the motorway, with declared consumption between 5.8 and 6.3 l/100 km. In real driving, as we were able to verify, these figures are a little optimistic. In the 20 days we had the Japanese SUV in our hands, driven on the motorway, in and around Milanese traffic, the final figure was 7.7l/100 km. We certainly have to admit that we did not spare ourselves in pushing on the accelerator to perform all the various tests. With a 'softer' foot, it is clear that this figure is bound to improve, perhaps to 7 l/100 km.

The manual gearbox that makes the difference and makes fun

The engine can be mated to either an automatic transmission or a six-speed manual. For our test Mazda provided us with the latter, and not by chance. The Japanese manufacturer is one of the few that still believes in the pleasure of the manual gearbox, and its linkages are among the best on the market: short stroke, precise engagement, direct feel.

It is a detail that radically changes the driving experience. In fact, the CX-30 is not just efficient: it is also very, very fun. The steering is precise and natural, the chassis conveys agility and solidity, while the engine delivers a full-bodied delivery that makes any artificial 'Sport mode' unnecessary.

Driving in the Milan area

Driven as mentioned around Milan, driving pleasure was the common denominator for every hour spent in the car. In second gear, from 4,000 to 5,000 revs, the engine stretches decisively, (perfect for sprinting at traffic lights, or making a quick overtake) while in the mid-range it shows off a surprising fullness. In fifth or sixth all you have to do is lightly press the accelerator to pick up speed effortlessly, a sign of an elasticity that a smaller 2.0 would be hard pressed to match.

Credit also goes to the low weight: around 1,350 kg dry. A remarkable value for a 4.60 metre long SUV with a 2.7 metre wheelbase, which translates into agility and manoeuvrability. The ideal connection is with the philosophy of the legendary little MX-5, which has always embodied lightness as an absolute value.

Interior: elegance and technology

If the CX-30 doesn't change on the outside, inside the improvements are tangible. The new multimedia system is at the heart of the novelties: a panoramic screen, well integrated into the dashboard and oriented towards the driver, introduces Amazon Alexa as virtual assistant, making the management of on-board functions more intuitive and immediate. There is also a handy camera that displays the rear and front of the car when manoeuvring and a whole series of Level 2 Adas to assist with driving.

The instrument in front of the steering wheel remains true to Mazda aesthetics: a 7-inch TFT display with simple graphics that prioritises clarity and, if desired, you can even enable the Hand Up Display to keep the main information in view at all times while driving. The cabin impresses with its soft materials and uncluttered design. It is the same philosophy seen on the outside, brought inside with consistency and refinement.

Space in the back is good even for those over 180 cm, while the boot remains average for the category.

The exact model we drove, the CX-30 2025 5WGN 2.5L e-SKYACTIV G 140hp 6MT FWD in the Takumi version has a base price of 36,050 euro.