Mazda has not followed the current trends towards downsizing and turbocharging internal combustion engines in recent years. The time was used intensively to develop a new type of combustion engine. With the Skyactiv technology, technologies from the petrol engine and diesel engine are combined in a new unit. In the 2022 winter test, the Mazda shows very individual characteristics.
In the current model, you can still find the traditional switches, buttons and a selection dial in the center console for all essential functions. Operation for the driver is accordingly clear. The cockpit is clear and the steering wheel spokes look very filigree.
As soon as you are seated, the seat can be electronically adjusted to the optimal position and saved. Press the start button and a powerful push from the starter starts the Skyactiv engine. Every manufacturer has now programmed its own mouse cinema for the start, here Mazda extends the rev counter once to the stop and starts the system test.
The Selection line offers the more exclusive equipment variant. At a manageable additional price of 1.700 euros, the electric tailgate, steering wheel and seat heating, automatic air conditioning, keyless entry and the reversing camera are included. But the basic equipment also sets an example in terms of equipment such as adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, full LED headlights, navigation system, heated exterior mirrors, head-up display or smartphone connection. A special highlight is an optional sound system from Bose, the placement of the mid-bass speakers is cleverly integrated in the footwell.
The Skyactiv engine on the CX-30
According to its own information, Mazda assumes that the majority of cars will still be powered by internal combustion engines in the future. Globally, this will certainly continue for a few more years. With the lowering of the exhaust emission limits, new priorities have been set for the future on the European market. As an answer to the future of the internal combustion engine, Mazda relies on the development of the Skyactiv engines. A 2,0-liter Skyactiv-G petrol engine with mild hybrid technology is used in our test car.
In principle, it is a modified naturally aspirated engine with a very lean mixture preparation. When the engine is cold and at high engine speeds, the ignition is ignited as usual using a spark plug. Mainly, however, the drive takes place via an initial ignition during the compression process, which initiates self-ignition of the air-fuel mixture. In addition, Mazda uses a mild hybrid system. Emissions of nitrogen oxide and soot are lower. In our current winter test, we drive the Skyactiv with the 110kW / 150 hp engine.
Blind spot display integrated in the head-up display
In practice, the Mazda runs, depending on the preparation of the fuel-air mixture, by a factor of 2 to 3 leaner than conventional gasoline engines. A compressor ensures the increased air supply and provides a noticeable drive in the speed range between 3.000 and 6.000 revolutions. Otherwise, the Mazda is more suitable for linear and even acceleration in the lower speed range. With the 6-speed manual transmission we drive, it can also be driven lazily and ensures smooth running in the lower speed range.
The maximum torque of 213 Newton metres, the wide engine speed range and the late power delivery from 3.000 rpm predestine it for relaxed driving over long distances. The clear head-up display and the adaptive cruise control relieve the driver significantly on longer journeys on the motorway. A highlight is the integration of the blind spot display in the head-up display. Even when driving without looking to the side, vehicles in the blind spot are displayed in real time.
When parking, a good overview and the camera-based parking aid, which allow a bird's eye view of the car, help. In terms of dimensions, the current CX-30 closes the gap between the more compact CX-3 and the larger CX-5. The extensive basic equipment is a further plus point with regard to the competition.
Future of Skyactiv engines
Between 2022 and 2025, the Japanese car manufacturer promises a range of new vehicles based on the Skyactiv Multi-Solution Scalable Architecture. According to Mazda, this includes five hybrid models (excluding mild hybrids, including models with a Toyota hybrid system), five plug-in hybrid models and three battery-electric models. The details of the new models will be announced in the coming months.
Conclusion
The CX-30 makes a few statements in its class. This includes the new combustion engine, the extensive basic equipment and the well thought-out interior concept. Those who adjust to the individual characteristics of the engine can drive in an energy-saving manner in the medium speed range. With its variable room concept, the CX-30 is a perfect companion for leisure and sports activities.
Addendum
Cover Photo - Mazda MX-30 Copyright Mazda
Test winter 2021/2022
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