My GT7 Log: The Mazda CX-30

The Mazda CX-30 became the talk of the town since its 2019 debut, the same year as the fourth-generation Mazda 3. Here in Gran Turismo 7, I got the chance to sample the first Mazda crossover SUV of the Reiwa era.

So, what's it all about the Mazda CX-30?

As the second model of Mazda’s next generation lineup that started with the fourth-generation Mazda 3, the CX-30 is all about being the standing ovation of the crossover hatchback market. Although it looks similar to its Mazda3 equivalent, the cladding and increased ground clearance make the CX-30 easy to differentiate.

Under the hood, the CX-30 is offered with a choice of a SKYACTIV-G 2.0L, SKYACTIV-D 1.8L, and the revolutionary SKYACTIV-X 2.0L engine with Spark Control Compression Ignition and M Hybrid. All petrol models are mated with either a 6-speed AT or 6-speed MT, but the diesel variant is mated only with the 6-speed AT.

The CX-30 featured in Gran Turismo 7 is the one with the SKYACTIV-X 2.0L engine with Spark Control Compression Ignition and M Hybrid. Sadly, it's offered with FF configuration, unlike the Mazda3 offered in-game with its i-ACTIV AWD. If only GT7 would add drivetrain swaps in future updates. That seems unlikely but in the meantime...

Let's drive the CX-30 around Brands Hatch to demonstrate its SKYACTIV-VEHICLE ARCHITECTURE and G-Vectoring Control the CX-30 possesses. It won't be an easy task, but calculations suggest that it can complete a full lap around this track within two minutes. Let's see if I can beat the buzzer with this Mazda crossover around the Hatch. Roll the tape.

I managed to lap Brands Hatch with the CX-30 in 1m59.421s. Not much, but it was a sure buzzer-beater like any anti-climactic basketball moments you saw on TV.

Although the CX-30 has a very misleading name that throws a curveball into the Mazda SUV range, it delivers the same promises as today's Mazda 3 does. It’s paramount to the crossover hatchbacks, and if you are asking for the competition, chances are that the CX-30 will be the last one to pop up from the rest.

Like all good Mazdas of today, the CX-30 is one of the new symbols of quiet luxury, and there's no need to show off when you know your worth. It offers almost anything that proves irresistible to all market demographics, from styling, comfort, dynamics, and reliability. Even high-end subdivisions are unsafe from this crossover's appearance.

With the CX-30, you'll know what it's like to "be a driver" when you drive one.