A red 2020 Mazda CX-30, which can be found at your local Mazda dealer, is parked in a white showroom.

Looking at the New Mazda CX-30

The 2019 Geneva auto show unveiled some new and really exciting cars. There was a ton of new releases and add-ons to different car manufacturer’s lineups. One of these brands was Mazda, with its release of the 2020 CX-30. It is the newest SUV to hit Mazda’s lineup and will be coming to your local Mazda dealer soon.

The car is a compact crossover SUV with a super sleek design. According to Mazda, their “design language” is called “Kodo: Soul of Motion.” This Japanese philosophy creates a dynamic sense of energy. In an effort to embrace this language, Mazda designed the vehicle, so it has a sense of movement before it even moves.

The looks are definitely up to par this year, but what about the other parts of the car? Safety, drivetrain, and interior seem to be just as good as the looks. Let’s do a quick review of what we know so far.

Design of the CX-30

A red 2020 Mazda CX-30 is parked next to a wooded trail in the mountains.

 

With this new model, Mazda is really pushing the envelope on design, and it’s clear their hard work has paid off. Mazda has snuck in a few design traits that not only look beautiful but are functional. For instance, the grille is designed to catch the light, and according to Mazda: “the triangular motif pattern of the signature sculpted grille provides optimum airflow of improved aerodynamics.”

This design motto flows right into the body paint. With that idea of “Kodo,” the paint reflects light in an S-curve shape creating that “sense of energy.” And it’s true, the reflection on body paint does give the car a sense of power and movement.

The design language doesn’t stop there; the headlights are meticulously designed. Under lighting design on Mazda’s website, it says: “The sculpted headlight design adds depth and a sense of added stability while the turn indicator lamps pulsate with a distinctive rhythmic vitality, leaving an afterglow of light.”

Moving into the interior, Mazda claims it’s a perfect fit, as all of the gauges and displays all face the driver, laid out so as not to distract. The seats are also designed to follow the natural s-shape curve of our bodies. The amount of thought that went into this car from its designers is astounding. But while we are on the topic of the interior, what about the amenities?

Interior amenities

The new lineup that Mazda has includes the compatibility of the MyMazda app. With the app comes a personal assistant for your car. A car health report, remote start, and lock and unlock doors options are just a few things you can do inside this powerful app.

The remote start function allows you to change the interior temperature and start the car before you even walk outside your house. The app also includes a vehicle finder, ensuring that you never lose your car in a parking lot again. The health report mentioned earlier shows the tire pressure, oil life, and dashboard warning lights, warning you before a mishap happens.

The black leather interior that's found in a 2020 CX-30 is shown with a drivers display and infotainment system.

The Mazda can also come equipped with in-car WiFi capabilities. This feature can be also be put in the safety category as this same service can provide access to emergency services. These include automatic 911 calling and roadside assistance.

The interior tech is designed with “Kodo” in mind, like everything else in this car. The CX-30 comes with an 8.8-inch display and is compatible with both Apple and Android devices. Functions like this are designed to keep your eyes on the road as much as possible. Mazda also included an active driving display in the windshield. It shows you the speed limit and next to it, your speed, so you’ll never have to take your eyes off the road.

Additionally, the CX-30 has a generous cargo area, coming in at 45.2 cu.ft. With a power liftgate and a low platform makes loading things into it easier.

Being a compact crossover SUV, it’ll definitely be popular with families. So along with this, we need to discuss safety. Mazda made sure to make this a priority.

Safety

Mazda designed safety all the way down into the body. This is what Mazda says about the newly designed chassis: “The body of the CX-30 is an ideal balance between collision safety, performance, and quietness.” In order to accomplish this, the engineers developed the body out of a strong, high tensile steel that is lightweight.

Nowadays, a strong body design and a strong material won’t quite cut it. With computers getting more advanced, they can actually help the drivers be prepared for the road ahead. Take, for example, the rear cross-traffic alert on the CX-30. While backing up out of a parking spot with cars on both sides, it can be difficult to see an oncoming car. But the CX-30 assists the driver by alerting them to any oncoming cars.

The CX-30 is chalk full of these drivers assist features, to list just a few; radar cruise control with stop and go, smart brake support, high beam control, and adaptive front-lighting. These all contribute to the overall sense of safety on the road, something every driver needs.

But what is the driving experience like? What can we expect from the drivetrain? Is the engine capable for an SUV?

Performance

A smiling couple is getting into their red 2020 CX-30 that's parked on a street.

The CX-30 comes with a hefty 2.5l with Skyactiv-G. The engine is very responsive and super-efficient. Mazda claims that this engine will get up to 186 hp and get up to 186 lb-ft of torque. Efficient on fuel, and a decent amount of power screams a well thought out drivetrain.

Mazda wants to bring confidence on any road you may find yourself traversing. With this in mind they make available the i-Activ AWD on the CX-30. This can help you drive confidently in any condition. The Off-road traction assist control button helps optimize torque and traction control for uneven terrain.

The steering wheel on the Mazda CX-30 comes with paddle shifters, take the driving experience into your own hands, allowing you to shift the car when you need to.

“Kodo”

Mazda has this idea of “Kodo” throughout this new model. From literally the interior to the exterior. Whether it’s the design of the interior or the exterior wheels, the exterior design also has the S-curve paint reflection soon to be iconic. We believe that consumers will be excited about the exterior design as much as we are.

The engine of this car doesn’t lack, though; it’s sure to bring a sense of speed and power with every press of the gas pedal. Pair this with an intuitive AWD system, and you have a perfect drivetrain for your everyday driving.

If you’re in the market for a compact SUV, Mazda has a great option for you. This upcoming year is going to be great for vehicles with car companies releasing some great cars in their lineup. If you’re interested in a new car stop by your nearest Mazda dealership, not only will they have the CX-30 but other cars in Mazda’s lineup.