Mazda CX-30: the compact SUV that combines elegance with performance
Discover the Mazda CX-30: sophisticated design and advanced technology
In the modern automotive world, where the boundaries between segments are becoming increasingly fluid, Mazda has once again managed to surprise with balance and refinement. The Mazda CX-30 is clear proof that innovation can take on harmonious and practical forms at the same time. This compact SUV represents the second model in the new generation of Mazda and brings with it the essence of the brand's philosophy: elegant Kodo design, an interior designed around the person and the pleasure of driving – Jinba Ittai – translated into the perfect connection between the driver and the car.
Positioned between the Mazda CX-3 and the well-known CX-5, the CX-30 manages to gracefully fill a space that few had noticed before – that of compact cars small enough for the urban environment, but also spacious and versatile enough for long getaways outside the city. It is, therefore, a model that addresses the needs of those looking for dynamism, comfort and efficiency in a single elegant package.
With the CX-30, Mazda is not only entering a new segment, it is redefining the way the driving experience is perceived in this category – an SUV that makes no compromises between aesthetics, functionality and emotion.
Exterior design – fluid elegance and strength in motion
The exterior design of the new Mazda CX-30 is a true style statement, an expression of the ideal balance between grace and strength. Under the “Sleek and Bold” concept, Mazda has managed to harmoniously combine two seemingly opposite features: the fluid elegance of a coupe and the imposing robustness of an SUV. The result is a refined silhouette, with clean lines and well-defined proportions, which attract attention without being ostentatious.
The lower part of the body is marked by black protections that emphasize the practical and sporty character of the model at the same time. These details create the feeling of stability and safety, giving the CX-30 a strong and confident presence on the road. It is a form of expression of the Japanese design “Charge and Release” – inspired by the fluid movement of traditional calligraphy, in which each line has its own meaning and energy.
The evolved Kodo design is based on three aesthetic principles: Yohaku, the beauty of empty space; Sori, curves that express balance and elegance; and Utsuroi, the subtle play of light and shadow. All of these are found in the fluid shapes of the CX-30 – from the smooth arc that starts from the front wing and extends to the rear wheel arch, suggesting movement and vitality, to the side surfaces that reflect the surroundings in an “S”-shaped dance of lights, visible when driving.
Viewed from the rear, the car exudes power and stability. The prominent rear wings and slightly tapered tailgate create an athletic image, similar to that of a sports coupe, while the front end impresses with a mix of elegance and boldness. Mazda’s signature, deeper and more defined grille joins the LED headlights with a unique light signature, creating a determined, almost expressive look.
The headlights and taillights, carefully sculpted around cylindrical shapes, are not only aesthetic, but also functional – offering precise light and an unmistakable visual signature. The LED direction indicators feature a sequential pulsation effect, which adds a touch of refinement and dynamism.
The Mazda CX-30 can be customized in nine body colors, including Soul Red Crystal, Machine Grey and Polymetal Grey – emblematic colors for the Japanese brand, which perfectly highlight the subtle play of shapes and lights.
Thus, the exterior of the Mazda CX-30 is not just the result of a design sketch, but a work of art in motion – a car that conveys emotion, balance and energy through every line, curve and reflection.
Interior Design – Japanese Harmony and Contemporary Refinement
The interior of the Mazda CX-30 is a celebration of the Japanese philosophy of balance, space and attention to detail. Inspired by traditional Japanese architecture, which emphasizes the concept of Ma – the beauty of empty space –, the cabin offers an airy, calm and refined atmosphere, where every element has a well-defined purpose. It is a faithful expression of Mazda’s human-centric philosophy, where design, technology and ergonomics come together in natural harmony.
Under the overall concept of “Sleek and Bold”, the interior of the CX-30 manages to convey both fluid elegance and the practical robustness of an SUV. Every detail has been meticulously designed – from the texture of the materials to the impeccable finishes – to create a premium yet warm and welcoming driving experience.
The dashboard is intelligently structured: the driver’s area is compact and focused, offering a natural and intuitive driving position, while the passenger area opens up into a bright and relaxing space. The symmetry and orientation of the elements towards the driver create a direct connection between the driver and the car, highlighting the Jinba Ittai philosophy – the perfect unity between man and car.
The center console is ergonomically placed, with the gear lever, cupholders and main controls positioned within easy reach, offering a pleasant and effortless user experience. The chosen materials – natural leather, metallic texture inserts and double-molded finishes – give the feeling of authentic quality, specific to the upper segment. The subtle play of light on the smoky gray panel reveals fine engravings that emphasize the spirit of Japanese craftsmanship.
The Mazda CX-30 is available in two distinct color themes: Dark Brown, with an elegant and mature touch, and Dark Blue, with modern and sophisticated accents. The black or white leather upholstery features fine perforations that reveal a refined brown lining, while the Greige or Black fabric option adds a contemporary touch.
In addition to its refined aesthetics, the interior impresses with its functionality and comfort. The space is excellently optimized, offering enough room for all passengers, and the generous trunk easily meets the needs of everyday life and weekend getaways.
Thus, the interior design of the Mazda CX-30 is more than an exercise in style – it is a sensory experience in which lines, materials and space create a balanced universe, dedicated to pure driving pleasure and absolute relaxation.
Practical and comfortable – well-thought-out space for every detail
The Mazda CX-30 manages to achieve a rare balance between compact dimensions ideal for urban traffic and the generous comfort of a family SUV. Positioned between the Mazda CX-3 and CX-5, this intermediate version offers exactly what many modern drivers are looking for: a car that is easy to handle in the city, but spacious and versatile enough for long journeys.
The cabin is designed with particular attention to passenger comfort. The space between the front seats allows for the integration of a wide, elegant and practical center console, complemented by a generous center armrest. Rear passengers, in turn, benefit from ample knee and head room, as well as a comfortable center armrest and ergonomic head restraints. Even taller people can enjoy a relaxed position over long distances, thanks to the low seat height and the well-calculated distance between the front and rear seats.
Another smart detail is the seating arrangement, which facilitates communication between passengers. Both front and rear passengers can see and interact easily, giving the interior a warm and sociable atmosphere – a subtle but essential aspect for comfort when travelling.
The boot, with a capacity of 430 litres, impresses with its practicality. It is spacious enough to carry a standard-sized pushchair and a piece of hand luggage at the same time. The tailgate opening measures 1,020 mm in width and the loading sill is just 731 mm high, making handling bulky luggage extremely easy. The interior trim of the boot, made of non-woven textile materials, gives it a clean and refined look, and as an option, the tailgate can be operated electrically at the touch of a button.
Access in and out of the car is equally well thought out. Despite the ground clearance typical of an SUV, the low seat height makes it easy to get in and out without any effort. The seats have an optimised shape and the B-pillar has been redesigned to allow natural movement for passengers of all sizes.
For the driver, the driving position is a strong point. The telescopic steering wheel has a 70 mm travel, offering fine adjustment and the seat tilt can be adjusted to maintain a comfortable and correct position. The gearshift is placed high up, close to the steering wheel, for quick and intuitive operation, while the central controls and cup holders are ergonomically positioned.
Visibility is excellent from all angles – an essential detail for safe and comfortable urban driving. The high seat position provides a clear view of the road, while the A-pillar has been slimmed and shaped to minimise blind spots. At the rear, the narrow C-pillar and additional side window ensure optimum visibility when changing lanes or parking manoeuvres.
Through all these details, the Mazda CX-30 proves that practicality does not mean giving up elegance, and comfort does not mean compromising on dynamism. It is an SUV that transforms every journey into a relaxed, safe and enjoyable experience – whether we are talking about daily city trips or weekend adventures outside it.
Audio system – clear sound, complete sensory experience
In the Mazda CX-30 cabin, sound is not just an element of comfort, but an integral part of the driving experience. Japanese engineers treated the interior acoustics with the same care with which they shaped the design and dynamics of the car, aiming to create a balanced, authentic and deep sound space.
The CX-30’s audio system was developed based on the Human Centric Design principle, with particular attention paid to how the human ear perceives sound in motion. Each speaker is strategically placed, depending on the shape of the cabin and the position of the passengers, to achieve uniform sound distribution and impeccable clarity, regardless of the seat occupied in the car.
Standard versions of the SUV are equipped with a high-quality audio system, which provides a clean and balanced sound for faithful reproduction of music, voices and fine details. For those who want a premium audio experience, Mazda offers the BOSE Premium Sound System, specially calibrated for the interior of the CX-30.
It includes 12 high-performance speakers, some of which are mounted in the body structure – an innovative technical solution that eliminates vibrations and enhances clarity. The BOSE subwoofers are integrated into the side panels, not in the trunk, to preserve the storage space intact, but also to achieve deep, natural bass without distortion.
Mazda has optimized the interior acoustics by using sound-absorbing materials and carefully calibrated insulation, reducing noise from the engine, wind and tires. This way, passengers can listen to their favorite music at a moderate volume without losing detail.
The end result is a refined sound environment that transforms every road into a complete experience – a combination of silence, balance and emotion. In the Mazda CX-30, every note is felt, not just heard.
Engines, efficiency and autonomy – Skyactiv technology for driving pleasure
The Mazda CX-30 continues the brand’s tradition of offering an authentic driving experience, based on balance, refinement and efficiency. Under the hood, the compact SUV hides the Skyactiv range of engines, designed to combine dynamic performance with low fuel consumption and emissions. Mazda’s philosophy remains clear: modern technology should not take the driver away from the pleasure of driving, but rather enhance it.
The engine range includes Skyactiv-G petrol and Skyactiv-D diesel units, both of which offer a prompt response and linear power delivery. In addition, Mazda also offers the revolutionary Skyactiv-X engine, equipped with Spark Controlled Compression Ignition (SPCCI) technology – a unique system that combines the advantages of a petrol engine with the efficiency of a diesel engine. The result is more complete combustion, more natural acceleration and a significant reduction in fuel consumption and emissions.
The engines can be coupled to a 6-speed Skyactiv-MT manual transmission or a Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission, both designed to provide smooth transitions between gears and precise control. Depending on the version, the Mazda CX-30 is available with both front-wheel drive (FWD) and the intelligent i-Activ AWD all-wheel drive system, which constantly monitors road conditions and automatically distributes torque for optimal grip and increased stability.
Efficiency is a strong point of the model. Thanks to Skyactiv technologies and the M Hybrid system, which recovers braking energy and uses it to power the car's electrical systems, the Mazda CX-30 significantly reduces fuel consumption in urban traffic. Depending on the engine, the average combined consumption varies between 5.1 and 6.6 liters/100 km, and CO₂ emissions are kept within low limits, complying with current European standards.
In terms of autonomy, the balance between efficiency and performance is remarkable. The generous tank, of approximately 51 liters, allows for a range of over 700–900 km on a full tank, depending on the engine and driving conditions. For many drivers, this means complete freedom of movement, whether it is for daily commuting or long trips outside the city.
Regardless of the version, the Mazda CX-30 offers a pleasant, balanced and refined driving experience. It is an SUV that does not only pursue raw performance, but also seeks the perfect harmony between man, car and road – a philosophy that defines the spirit of Mazda in every detail.
Safety and driving assistance – 5-star protection Euro NCAP
The Mazda CX-30 is an outstanding example of the Mazda Proactive Safety philosophy, a comprehensive approach that aims to prevent accidents before they happen and protect passengers in any situation. Starting from the driving position and excellent visibility, to the most modern electronic systems, the SUV offers a safe and intuitive experience.
Among the advanced technologies is the i-Activsense system, which includes functions such as Driver Monitoring – a system that uses infrared cameras to observe the level of attention and fatigue of the driver. In case of danger, the car issues alerts and can act together with intelligent automatic braking (Smart Brake Support) to reduce the risk of impact. Front Cross Traffic Alert also warns the driver when vehicles are approaching from difficult-to-see angles, and the Cruising and Traffic Support (CTS) system maintains control over acceleration, braking and steering in heavy traffic conditions, reducing driver fatigue.
In terms of passive safety, the Mazda CX-30 is based on a body built with 30% of very high-strength steel, capable of effectively absorbing impact energy. The knee airbag, introduced as standard globally, further contributes to driver protection. In addition, the hood and front bumper have been specially designed to reduce injuries in the event of a collision with pedestrians.
The result of these efforts? The Mazda CX-30 achieved the maximum 5-star score in Euro NCAP tests, confirming the exceptional level of protection offered to both passengers and pedestrians. It is clear proof that safety is not just a priority for Mazda – it is an essential part of its DNA.
Equipment levels – customization for every style and need
The Mazda CX-30 offers a wide range of equipment levels, designed to satisfy the preferences of every driver, from urban functionality to luxury and ultimate comfort.
Prime-Line is the ideal starting point for those who want to be connected and safe. It includes Head Up Display, LED headlights with washers, radar cruise control and wireless connectivity via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, offering a complete technological experience from the first road.
Center-Line brings an extra level of comfort and elegance: automatic dual-zone climate control, smart keyless locking/unlocking system and heated steering wheel for cold days. 18-inch alloy wheels complete the refined image of the SUV, combining functionality with style.
Homura stands out with sporty and dynamic details: black upholstered seats with red stitching, tinted rear windows, power liftgate and Qi wireless charging – all contributing to a modern and functional look.
Nagisa brings the perfect combination of sportiness and retro elegance, with the optional Zircon Sand finish, terracotta accent interior and a 12-speaker BOSE audio system, offering both sound performance and visual refinement.
Exclusive-Line emphasizes comfort and peace of mind behind the wheel: dual-zone air conditioning, heated front seats, front and rear parking sensors, along with elegant 18-inch alloy wheels, for a safe and stylish presence on the road.
Takumi represents the top of the range, dedicated to those who appreciate luxury and sophisticated technology. The black leather seats (available in white for Skyactiv-X models) offer electric adjustment and memory for the driving position. The package also includes Head Up Display memory, auto-dimming door mirrors and reverse tilt function, transforming every journey into a premium experience.
Through these equipment levels, the Mazda CX-30 manages to offer the perfect combination of style, comfort, technology and personalization, adapting to the needs of each driver.
Prices and Availability – Mazda CX-30 in Romania
The Mazda CX-30 is in the brand’s current offer in Romania with a wide range of trim levels, each adapted to different needs and driving styles. Prices start at €26,790 for the Prime-Line trim level, which already offers modern features such as Head Up Display, LED headlights with washers and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
For those who want extra comfort and elegance, the Center-Line level starts at €29,090, offering dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry and heated steering wheel, complemented by 18-inch alloy wheels. The higher levels, such as Homura and Nagisa, priced at €31,490 and €34,190, bring sporty design elements and refined interiors, including an electric tailgate, tinted windows and a BOSE 12-speaker audio system.
The Exclusive-Line level, priced at €34,690, combines comfort with safety, including dual-zone air conditioning, heated front seats and front/rear parking sensors. The top of the range, Takumi, at €36,190, offers absolute luxury: leather seats with electric adjustments and memory, Head Up Display with memory, automatic door mirrors and advanced comfort functions.
The available engines, from Skyactiv-G petrol and Skyactiv-D diesel, to the innovative Skyactiv-X, allow the driver to choose between performance, efficiency and autonomy, depending on their preferences. Thus, the Mazda CX-30 becomes an affordable, modern and versatile SUV, suitable for both urban traffic and long journeys, offering a balanced combination of style, technology and comfort.
Conclusion – harmony between refinement and responsibility
The Mazda CX-30 is more than just a compact SUV – it is the expression of the ideal balance between aesthetics, technology and emotion. With its flowing design inspired by the Kodo philosophy, human-centric interior and precise performance that bears the signature of the Jinba Ittai spirit, this model manages to transform every journey into an authentic experience of connection with the road. At the same time, its advanced safety technologies and the efficiency of modern engines demonstrate Mazda’s commitment to a safer and more sustainable future.
Thus, the CX-30 is not only an inspired choice for those looking for a stylish and practical SUV, but also a reliable partner for every adventure, in the city or beyond. At its wheel, refinement is intertwined with responsibility, and the pleasure of driving becomes an art form.