Bermaz has recently commenced local assembly of the Mazda CX-30 in response to strong market demand. Alongside the completely knocked-down (CKD) models, Bermaz has streamlined the CX-30 lineup, offering a single engine option but in four different variants. Positioned at the top of the range is the Mazda CX-30 High+ Premium. In this review, I will assess the local assembly version and determine if it matches up to the fully imported variant.

In terms of exterior design, the CKD model retains the same appearance as the completely built-up (CBU) version. Having been on sale for three years, Malaysians should be quite familiar with the CX-30 by now. Personally, I find the CX-30 to be an attractive crossover. Its elongated hood gives it a distinctive look. As the premium model, it features full LED lighting all around, including Adaptive LED headlights. To complete the look, the fully-equipped CX-30 is equipped with 18-inch rims wrapped in 215/55 R18 tires.

The interior of the CKD model remains largely unchanged from the CBU models. Reflecting Mazda’s characteristic style, the CX-30’s interior is adorned with dark brown leather. The cabin exudes a premium feel, with numerous soft-touch materials throughout. The instrument cluster, a familiar feature seen in various Mazda models, combines analog and digital meters and includes a 7-inch digital display.

At the center of the dashboard sits a high-definition 8.8-inch infotainment screen, which is the same as the one found in the Mazda MX-30. Mazda Malaysia has added a 360-degree camera to the local assembly model to enhance parking convenience. The camera provides high-definition images, ensuring clear visibility even at night. Below the infotainment screen, the CX-30 comes equipped with dual-zone climate control, a common feature in premium vehicles.

Despite not being the largest vehicle in its class, Mazda has managed to create an ergonomically sound interior. As a driver, I find the seating position to be perfect, offering a commanding view of the road. The CX-30 gives the impression of sitting higher than its actual height, thanks to Mazda’s efforts to maintain a cocoon-like feeling. To enhance this effect, the shoulder line has been raised.

Moving to the rear, the back seats provide ample legroom and headroom. However, I noticed that the seat bench is somewhat firm. Additionally, the rear area feels darker due to the smaller rear windows and thick C-pillars, limiting the amount of light entering the back. The CX-30’s trunk offers 430 liters of space, which is suitable for this vehicle class. Folding down the rear seats expands the cargo capacity further. Adding to the convenience, the CX-30 High+ Premium features a powered tailgate.

With the local assembly of the CX-30, Mazda Malaysia has discontinued the 1.8L turbo diesel engine available in the fully imported model due to low demand. The only remaining powertrain option is the 2.0L 4-cylinder naturally aspirated Skyactiv engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Mazda Malaysia has also ceased offering the all-wheel-drive version, making the front-wheel-drive variant the only option. This engine produces 162 hp at 6,000 rpm and peak torque of 213 Nm at 4,000 rpm, enabling the vehicle to achieve a top speed of 196 km/h.

In terms of performance, this engine provides adequate power for acceleration. Similar to the 1.5L engine in the Mazda 2, the low-end torque is relatively weak, although less noticeable in the 2.0L engine. The engine truly comes alive when the rpm surpasses 2,500. During leisurely driving, the engine feels calm and smooth, providing a premium driving experience. However, as the engine speed increases, I noticed that the noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels become more noticeable. The 6-speed automatic transmission, developed in tandem with the engine, complements its performance. It always selects the appropriate gear, working seamlessly with the engine. However, compared to newer powertrains in the market, this combination does show its age.

As is typical of Mazda vehicles, the CX-30 offers excellent ride and handling. The crossover feels agile in corners while remaining stable on the highway. Its agility is aided by the direct steering wheel, which provides good feedback to the driver, instilling confidence while cornering. The ride quality of the CX-30 is on the stiffer side, contributing to its impressive handling. The Corolla Cross, for instance, offers a slightly more balanced suspension setup between comfort and handling. Nevertheless, both vehicles perform equally well. Thanks to the stiffer suspension, the CX-30 exhibits minimal body roll in corners.

Braking performance is adequate for everyday use, allowing the vehicle to decelerate effectively. However, I noticed that the initial bite when applying the brakes is not very responsive. Stepping harder on the brake pedal is necessary to achieve further deceleration. This caught me off guard initially, as I expected the brakes to be more responsive, considering the vehicle does provide decent driving experience. The top-spec CX-30 High+ Premium boasts an extensive list of safety and driver assistance systems. The software has made the driver assistance features more refined. In the past, when setting up the cruise control, the vehicle would accelerate aggressively to reach the set speed. This behavior has been rectified in the CKD model.

Regarding safety systems, the CX-30 High+ Premium is equipped with 7 airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), and Hill Launch Assist (HLA). The driver assistance systems include Adaptive LED Headlamps (ALH), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA), Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), Lane-Keep Assist System (LAS), Driver Attention Alert (DAA), Smart Brake Support (SBS), Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC), and Cruising & Traffic Support (CTS).

Local assembly has allowed Mazda Malaysia to offer the CX-30 at a slightly lower price than the CBU model while including additional features. Priced at RM 159,000, the locally assembled model is on par with the fully imported version. After driving the CX-30 again after a few years, I appreciate this vehicle even more than before. It is an SUV that appeals to those seeking a good driving experience while enjoying the benefits of an SUV.

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