Mazda CX-30 review

• For: Smart cabin, excellent engines, neat styling
• Against: No diesel, limited space in rear
• Verdict: It’s good, but the Mazda 3 is better

The CX-30 small SUV is based on the Mazda 3 hatchback and slots into the range beneath the larger CX-5.

It’s more of a crossover than a proper SUV, because fitting three adults in the back is a tight squeeze.

The CX-30 is sold exclusively with petrol engines. The 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G produces 120hp and is smooth and unobtrusive, but the 180hp 2.0 Skyactiv-X is the engine of choice. It makes the CX-30 feel lively and almost as good to drive as the Mazda 3.

We prefer the manual gearbox to the dim-witted six-speed auto.

There are five trim levels: SE L, SE L Lux, Sport Lux, GT Sport and GT Sport Tech.

The CX-30 gets progressively more lavish as you shift through the different grades, but in all cases, the cabin is pleasingly premium, with soft-touch materials and finely-damped controls.

A 430-litre boot is identical to the rival Nissan Qashqai and trounces with the 364 litres offered by the Mazda 3.

KEY INFO

• Launched: 2019
• Facelifted: TBC
• Due for replacement: TBC
• Warranty: 3 years / 60,000 miles