Mazda is a rising automotive brand assembling some fine vehicles. The craftsmanship of the Japanese cars is perfection. However, this model was assembled in Salamanca, Mexico, with all Japanese parts with the same high standards; but maybe with less expensive labor. The test car this week is a Mazda CX-30, a smaller SUV model with a powerful 2.5L turbo engine with 227 horsepower, a Sky Active versatile drive, and a sport mode selection. The end result, with the turbo boost, is a very fast car with excellent road handling loaded with many safety features.
The exterior paint is an attractive “Snowflake White Pearl” that is perfect for Colorado snow country. Along with the paint and turbo engine there is a raft of safety features and LED lights. The SUV rides on 18” black alloy wheels and has all-around LED lights and a rear spoiler that is a clue to the power of this vehicle. Almost all of the safety features are included with only two extra option charges that include $450 for the extra paint, with a final manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $38,955.
The extra bonus safety features are 360 view monitor, smart brake system, including rear cross traffic, and an online navigation system. Standard equipment includes the lane departure warning system, lane keep assist, radar cruise control, and a mirror spot monitoring system. Along with the many safety-features the CX-30 comes with very important all-wheel drive and 4-wheel disk brakes. These features are really good for Colorado winter weather. The vehicle has a 60,000 mile/ 60-month power train warranty along with a new vehicle limited 36-month/ 35,000-mile warranty.
The CX-30 has a stiff suspension system that is great for high speeds and curves, but not for comfort. While the seats are heated and comfortable, Colorado’s terrible road conditions make for a rougher ride with potholes and roadway wear and tear. Colorado needs some road repairs especially U.S.70 West towards Vail.
This is a nice smaller model, with 30 mpg overall on the highways with excellent acceleration and handling. I felt very safe in this vehicle and that is important with the massive growth in road traffic.