The Mazda CX-30 2027: More than a model-year update
Launched in 2019, the Mazda CX-30 compact SUV continues to perform strongly, with global sales of approximately 200,000 units annually. Sharing its platform with the Mazda3, the CX-30 is set to receive a refresh rather than a full replacement, with an all-new model not expected until around 2030. However, this latest update aims to maintain the model’s sales momentum and competitiveness.
The updated 2027 model introduces a revised grade structure, enhanced safety technologies and upgraded comfort features.
Alongside this, the range gains the new Homura Plus flagship and Makoto special version, and two exterior colours; Aero Grey and New Zinc Green. Safety updates include enhanced Smart Brake Support with motorcycle detection and intersection support, while further-developed Adaptive LED Headlights improve visibility.
The powertrain line-up retains two 24V mild-hybrid petrol engines producing 140PS and 186PS, with manual or automatic transmissions and available all-wheel drive. With a 422-litre boot, the CX-30 continues to balance practicality with refinement, the company says.
During a recent Mazda ‘Epic’ drive event in Albania, Frankie Youd heard from Klaus Hullen, senior manager, Mazda Motor Europe and Christian Schultze, deputy head of Mazda’s European R&D centre to learn more about the evolution of the CX-30 and its importance in the Mazda line up.
Just Auto (JA): How have you updated the CX-30 model and kept it fresh?
Christian Schultze (CS): For this year, we have thought about enhancing what this overall ownership experience is about, and we wanted to stay true to the character of the CX-30 because it’s so appreciated by our customers. But you will notice refinements in design, in convenience and in technology. There are new exterior colours that give opportunities for personal expression. Interior enhancements contribute to a more premium and comfortable atmosphere.
We have also introduced updates to connectivity, as well as driver assistance systems, to make everyday driving even easier. Rather than changing what makes the CX-30 so successful, we focus on the things which are used by our consumers every day.
Further to that, roof rails in silver and black will be offered for the upper grades of the CX-30 lineup to give a more premium look. New LED daytime running lights improve the appearance even further.
One of Mazda’s fundamental principles is human-centric design. Everything begins with understanding how people move naturally, how they react and interact with their environment. This philosophy is reflected in the entire CX-30, the driving position, the controls, the displays, the cockpit layout – everything is made to reduce distraction and improve comfort. The reality is a vehicle that is really intuitive from the very first moment of usage.
Instead of asking our users to adapt to the vehicle, we have developed a vehicle around the driver. For the updated 2027 version, we now offer the Homura Plus version at the top of the range. It offers many additional premium and comfort features, as well as upgraded lighting and enhancing comfort. We also have a new Makoto Special version.
The Mazda CX-30 continues to embark Mazda’s Kodo design philosophy, expressing a clean and dynamic form, inspired by Japanese craftsmanship as well as the use of space and proportion. Our Takumi masters dedicate years to perfecting their skills by paying attention even to the smallest details. This mindset can be thought throughout the entire CX-30, from material selection to surface quality, and finally fit and finish.
JA: How is Mazda doing in Europe?
Klaus Hullen (KH): In the first quarter of the current fiscal year Mazda Europe have sold in total 43,000 units, which is up 12% year over year, which is a pretty good result from our perspective. That is especially so when we consider that automotive is a really challenging environment.
We are ambitious with regards to how we think we can end this fiscal year in March 2027.
We are aiming to achieve almost 200,000 units of sales, which would be 21% up year-on-year. We think we will be able to achieve that effect also through the sales impact of CX-30, which is a really important model for us.
We have recently launched the Mazda 6e, which has started off very well throughout Europe, and as well, we have launched the CX-3, our latest assembly, which we are selling very well, especially in countries like Germany.
At Mazda we believe that not only one powertrain solution fits all. We know, of course, that our customers have different requirements, it depends on where they are living, of course, on the infrastructure, general conditions, but also specific needs of individual customers, so we are offering different multiple solutions to cover the need of the individual.
JA: And the overall importance of CX-30 to Mazda?
CS: The Mazda CX-30 has become, since its introduction, one of Mazda’s most important models. We have already sold more than 320,000 units here in Europe, nearly 1.4 million all over the world. It really occupies a very specific space inside of our SUV portfolio. It combines the practicality and manoeuvring necessary for everyday urban driving with the comfort and versatility which you need for long distance or an active lifestyle.
For many customers, the CX-30 delivers what they need for everyday life. The vehicle is stylish, without being excessive, practical without compromising on design, and the vehicle is engaging to drive and delivers a lot of comfort and refinement. This versatility is exactly the reason why this vehicle is so successful.
With the successful launch of our Mazda 6e and the CX-5, and the strong interest already seen for our new C60, we can say this is demonstrating the growing demand for Mazda’s electrified vehicles. These achievements give us the foundation to continue on our electrification journey, which is a very important part of our multi-solution strategy; it is the M-hybrid assisted engines, and the 2.0 e-Skyactiv X and the 2.5 e-Skyactiv G playing an important role in the portfolio.
JA: So how do the powertrain options relate to improved driving dynamics?
CS: The updated CX-30 is equipped with our latest generation 2.0 e-Skyactiv X, or 2.5 e-Skyactiv G gasoline engine. These engines feature advanced cylinder deactivation and the Mazda M hybrid system. It develops about 103 kilowatt and 238 newton meters of maximum torque.
This cylinder deactivation system seamlessly switches between two-cylinder operation and four-cylinder operation based on the driving conditions. For example, when you’re driving in light load conditions, cruising at a fixed speed, the system automatically switches off cylinder number one and cylinder four, reducing by this mechanical friction as well as pumping losses and enhancing combustion efficiency.
Another very important attribute to Mazda vehicles is driving dynamics. The CX-30 incorporates a range of technologies that contribute to stability, comfort, and predictability. Many of these functions work quietly in the background, and drivers might not consciously recognize them. But what they clearly feel is what these functions deliver to the driver and to the drive, like our G-vectoring control plus function.
This function enhances the handling stability and driving comfort in a very subtle way. It adjusts engine torque and brake torque in response to steering wheel inputs.