When the Mazda CX-30 was first revealed, we were a little puzzled by the purpose of its introduction. Mazda already had the CX-5 doing an awesome job in the the mid-range, while the CX-3 offered an almost premium compact crossover experience at a reasonable price. But after test driving it, we were completely convinced that it was one of Mazda’s most important new launches, which is why it won Crossover of the Year at this year’s VOTY. And now the Thai Automotive Journalists Association too have bestowed it the honour of Car of the Year.
The version sold in Thailand is actually made in Thailand, whereas the one sold in Malaysia comes fully imported from Japan. That being said, they’re essentially the same car, and we’re not surprised that it would win over the standard Mazda 3. We have a full review of it here, but in short here’s why.
The CX-30 is the Mazda 3, but in crossover form. The Mazda 3 is sold in hatchback and sedan form. Mazda brought huge generational changes to styling and the chassis with the Mazda 3, and all of that is translated to the CX-30 as well. For the first time, Mazda’s NVH qualities can truly be said to be in the premium category. Comfort and dynamism is up there with the best as well, with the 1.8 diesel model in particular delivering on performance.
While most of these are enough to give the Mazda 3 the same recognition, the CX-30 deserves more credit because it’s the car the general public are more interest in. It’s not only a big improvement, but one that’s more relevant to today’s car buyer.
PRESS RELEASE
Mazda Motor Corporation’s crossover SUV, Mazda CX-30, has been named Thailand Car of the Year 2020 by the Thai Automotive Journalists Association. This is the third time in history and the second year running that a Mazda vehicle takes the award after the Mazda3 and CX-3 won the award in 2019 and 2016 respectively.
The CX-30 was chosen as the top pick among seven finalists by a judging panel comprised of over 60 automotive journalists.
The CX-30 is a compact crossover that combines the bold proportions of an SUV with elegant styling that embodies Mazda’s Kodo design language. The vehicle is brought to life through reflections of the surroundings on its body that beautifully change according to the vehicle’s movement, location and the season. Furthermore, the CX-30 enriches time spent with loved ones with its cabin that comfortably sits four adults and offers a high level of quietness, as well as the vehicle’s high-quality interior that has been refined down to the smallest details.
Since February 2020, the Thai specification model of the CX-30 has been locally produced at AutoAlliance (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
Mazda continues its commitment to become a brand that creates special bonds with customers and enriches their lives by offering a car ownership experience that focuses on the pure essence of cars—the joy of driving.
