Test-Driving The 2023 Mazda CX-30 Carbon Edition

Mazda remains committed to delivering a fantastic blend of style, performance, and cutting-edge technology with their latest addition to the crossover SUV market. Introducing the 2023 Mazda CX-30, a small SUV that expertly captures the essence of sporty sophistication, and encapsulates the best qualities of the Mazda3 hatchback, but with an additional hint of rugged appeal, standard AWD and additional ground clearance.

Sharp Modern Exterior Styling

The CX-30 Carbon Edition holds a distinctive place with its sleek, modern design ethos. Building on Mazda’s KODO “Soul of Motion” design language, the vehicle exudes a sense of dynamic fluidity. The streamlined curves flow smoothly from the front to the rear, which not only adds to the visual appeal but also enhances aerodynamic efficiency. The black exterior accents set the Carbon Edition apart. The bold, black grille gives the front end a confident and dominant look. It’s flanked by slender LED headlights that add to the vehicle’s sharp, modern aesthetic. The matching black 18-inch alloy wheels lend a sporty and robust appeal, enhancing the vehicle’s overall stature.

Furthermore, the body’s lines and creases are masterfully sculpted, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. This accentuates the vehicle’s muscular stance and provides a sense of movement even when it’s stationary. The rear design is equally captivating, with LED taillights and a prominent exhaust outlet.

Sophisticated High Quality Interior

On the inside, the CX-30 Carbon Edition continues to impress. One cannot overlook the deliberate attention to detail in its design and material selection, which result in a highly refined interior. The black cabin gives off a sophisticated feel, beautifully complemented by the passionate hint of red leather upholstery, complete with contrast stitching. This dichotomy makes for a truly captivating environment.

The seats not only offer a blend of comfort and support that make long drives pleasurable but also give off an aura of sportiness. The layout is driver-focused, with intelligently placed controls that feel intuitive and enhance the user experience, making it easy to tap into the full capabilities of this dynamic SUV.

The interior quality and sophistication of the CX-30 outshine competitors in the same segment. It boasts a simple and spacious design, where every element seems carefully considered and purposefully placed. Despite its accessible price point, the CX-30’s cabin exudes a premium ambiance that belies its cost, truly setting a benchmark for affordability meeting luxury.

Exploring In-car Tech

In the technology department, the CX-30 Carbon Edition is brimming with advanced features that both tech enthusiasts and the everyday driver will appreciate. It comes equipped with a crystal-clear 10.25-inch touchscreen display which offers crisp visuals and responsive controls. The Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility ensures seamless smartphone integration, offering entertainment and navigation solutions on-the-go.

The SUV also sports a Wi-Fi hotspot, ensuring you remain connected even on long journeys. Mazda ups the ante with a top-notch Bose sound system that delivers excellent audio quality, turning every drive into an immersive musical experience, once again beyond what the competition is offering.

Safety hasn’t been compromised either. Features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring are standard, providing a secure environment for all occupants.

Potent Optional Turbocharged Engine

Under the hood, the 2023 Mazda CX-30 presents two engine choices: a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine and a turbocharged version. The naturally aspirated engine produces 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. This is sufficient for daily drives but doesn’t stand out or get me super excited behind the wheel. The turbocharged engine, however, takes performance to a whole new level, producing an impressive 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque.

Paired with a smooth six-speed automatic transmission, this engine delivers power smoothly and efficiently, adding a punch to your driving experience. However, it’s worth noting the Carbon Edition is only available with the base naturally aspirated engine.

Behind The Wheel

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 doesn’t just look good, it feels good on the road too. The steering is responsive, and the chassis is well-balanced, resulting in an engaging driving experience. The turbocharged engine provides excellent power delivery, making passing and merging maneuvers effortless. The ride quality remains comfortable but focuses on a sporty drive versus maximum comfort.

Wrapping Up

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 is a compelling package that manages to marry style, performance, and practicality in a way few small SUVs can match. Its striking design and high-quality interior alone make it a standout choice, but it’s the combination of its robust tech features, engaging driving dynamics, and flexible engine options that set it apart. The CX-30 starts at $22,950, Carbon Edition, $29,290 and the turbocharged premium model at $33,800.