Slick Mazda that stands out from the crowd...

The CX-30 brings a premium edge to a style-focused segment, writes Matt Allan

The Mazda CX-30 is a prime example of this. It’s bigger than the firm’s CX-3 or Nissan Juke but smaller than the CX-5 or a Qashqai, and features a sleeker design that puts it up against Toyota C-HR, Honda HR-V and Ford Puma in the compact coupe-crossover sector.

It’s a segment aimed at people who are willing to pay a bit more for a smarter or sportier take on the crossover. And while Mazda has followed the crowd in entering this segment it has once again strayed from the path in other areas.

Mazda is famous for embracing alternative engine technology and even in the 21 st century when everyone else is downsizing and turbocharging, it is not following the herd.

The CX30 is the first car to feature Mazda’ s Sky act iv X technology which uses compression ignition along with a spark to create a more efficient petrol engine.

Mazda says it allows then on turbo 2.0- litre offer petrol-like performance with diesel-like economy.

I’m not convinced. Without a turbo, response feels sluggish and you have to rev it hard to access that power. Doing that has a negative impact on the economy.

The engine is at least smooth and refined and paired with a surprisingly short-throw manual transmission that reminds you of Mazda’ sf am ed M X -5 roadster. The CX-30’s handling isn’t in the same league as the MX-5 but it still has hints of Mazda’s chassis wizardry.

Quick, responsive steering and body control mean you can hustle along Broad s with confidence.Yet it rides with the comfort you might expect in the class above.

So, engine aside, the CX-30 offers a strong driving experience but its real strength lies in its design.

In its segment different brands have taken different approaches.

Honda’s H-RV is relatively conservative while Toyota’s CHR is a riot of eye-catching angles.

The CX-30 is the antithesis of the Toyota, with simple elegant lines and minimal styling details. It is still bold in its own way but there’s a classy understated feel.

The slick, elegant feel continuesinside where the C X -30 is unmatched. Clean lines flow between cabin elements and there are high-grade metal, plastic and leather finishes everywhere.

Some premium European brands could learn a thing or two from Mazda’s less-is-more philosophy.

The cabin is also comfortable for front seat passengers, with supportive seats and plenty of legroom.

But those in the back will feel the pinch due to restricted leg room and the swooping roof line.

The more premium feel of the CX-30 is reflected in a fairly premium price - our GT sport model cost £29,865.

But your money does get you everything from adaptive cruise control and dual-zone climate control to ahead-up display and heated steering wheel.

It also gets you the bestlooking, best-handling car in its class and interior quality and comfort that’s a step above the mainstream.

Peacefully at home on

Friday 25th December, aged 54 years.

Terence’s funeral service will take place at Sunderland Crematorium on Tuesday 19th January at 9.30am. All enquiries to

Manor House Funeral Services, 75 Blackwood Road, Town End Farm Tel: 0191 536 5000