Mazda launches all-new CX-30 with SkyActiv-X, M hybrid tech

The 2019 Geneva Motor Show has officially started, and you’ll pretty much see interesting cars and concepts coming out in the next few days. Mazda is among the firsts to fire up the party with its newest crossover. While teasers reveal that it would be slotted in between the CX-3 and the CX-5, hence the assumption that it’s the CX-4, Mazda begs to differ and calls its all-new crossover the CX-30.

If you think Mazda is just trolling the world with the unconventional naming, then you’re wrong. There might be a logical reason behind the CX-30 nameplate – and it’s all because of what’s under its hood.

Much like the 2019 Mazda3, the all-new CX-30 is powered by the brand’s revolutionary SkyActiv-X engine that uses Spark Controlled Compression Ignition (SPCCI) technology. For the uninitiated, SPCCI combines gasoline and diesel combustion technology. It promises diesel’s fuel efficiency in conjunction with gasoline’s refinement.

With this setup, the CX-30 is a jacked-up Mazda3, and that might explain the odd naming. Calling it CX-4 may spark confusion, as opposed to keeping it at ‘3’ to correlate the use of the SkyActiv-X engine. But that’s just us – let’s just accept Mazda’s way of naming its cars, shall we? Besides, there's already a China-exclusive CX-4 that was launched in 2016.

Mazda’s latest diesel technology is also part of the engine options for the CX-30, but what got our attention is the new lightweight hybrid system that’s infused with the gasoline variants. Dubbed as the M hybrid system, it ensures better fuel efficiency and driving dynamics, with the assistance of a 24-V lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 600 kJ installed between the wheels.

There are no power figures announced for the CX-30 yet, but if the 2019 Mazda 3’s SkyActiv-X engine is any indication, it could have as much as 178 hp and 222 Nm of torque. It’s available in both six-speed manual and automatic transmissions in Europe. The latest i-Activ all-wheel-drive and GVC Plus systems are also standard with the all-new crossover.

As for styling, the CX-30 inherits the latest version of Mazda’s Kodo design language found in the Mazda3. It’s the second model of Mazda’s newest batch of minimalist design, spearheaded by the compact car. The eye-catching Soul Red Crystal and Machine Gray color options are available, as well.

When it comes to size, the CX-30 is indeed in between the CX-3 and CX-5 at 4,395mm long, 1,795mm wide, 1,530mm tall, and with a 2,655mm wheelbase. It’s interesting to point out that the CX-30 is a bit lower than the CX-3 in terms of overall height, which could be attributed to the car’s more tapered design.

Inside, the interior of the five-seater CX-30 would also have the latest of Mazda’s fluid design language, still concentrating on the brand’s driver-centric Jinbai Ittai philosophy with every drive. The range-topping trims of the CX-30 would get all the bells and whistles for interior refinement, including high-quality leather and a 12-piece Bose speaker system, along with an 8.8-inch display screen centerpiece with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The all-new CX-30 is also equipped with Mazda’s latest i-Activesense safety features such as driver fatigue detection, front parking exit traffic detection system, and CTS system (Cruising and Traffic Support).

It’s still unsure whether the CX-30 would reach the local showrooms, but Mazda said that it will roll out to global markets. If it does, it would be an interesting combo, just in case Mazda Philippines decides to bring it with the all-new Mazda3. In any case, pricing would be a huge factor since the breakthrough SkyActiv-X engine isn’t a cheap technology, to begin with.