The Mazda CX-30 2.0 Skyactiv-X with the Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission was introduced in September 2019 as part of the first generation (DM) of the CX-30. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the CX-30 lineup, it aimed to bridge the gap between the base 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine and the more powerful options. This variant was primarily marketed in Europe and Asia, offering a blend of fuel efficiency and respectable performance in a compact SUV package. Production of this specific configuration continued through March 2021.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mazda |
| Model | CX-30 |
| Generation | CX-30 |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 Skyactiv-X (180 Hp) Skyactiv-Drive |
| Start of production | September, 2019 |
| End of production | March, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 118 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 204 km/h (126.76 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 180 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 224 Nm @ 3000 rpm (165.21 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | HFY1 |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83.5 mm (3.29 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 91.2 mm (3.59 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt | 6.25 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1391-1491 kg (3066.63 – 3287.09 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1965 kg (4332.08 lbs.) |
| Max load | 474-574 kg (1044.99 – 1265.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 430 l (15.19 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1406 l (49.65 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 51 l (13.47 US gal | 11.22 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4395 mm (173.03 in.) |
| Width | 1795 mm (70.67 in.) |
| Height | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2655 mm (104.53 in.) |
| Front track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 175 mm (6.89 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.37 m (37.3 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 295 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 303 mm |
| Tires size | 215/65 R16; 215/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Mazda CX-30 2.0 Skyactiv-X with Skyactiv-Drive is a compact crossover SUV that debuted in 2019, built on the 1HX0 platform shared with the Mazda3. It represents Mazda’s attempt to capture a growing segment of the market desiring a stylish, premium-feeling small SUV. The Skyactiv-X engine, a key feature of this variant, utilizes a novel combustion process combining gasoline and compression ignition, aiming for diesel-like efficiency with gasoline-like performance. The Skyactiv-Drive transmission is Mazda’s name for a conventional six-speed automatic, tuned for smooth operation and fuel economy. This particular configuration was positioned as a step up from the base 2.0-liter non-Skyactiv-X engine, offering improved power and efficiency without the higher price tag of the more powerful engine options.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this CX-30 variant is the HFY1 2.0-liter Skyactiv-X engine. This engine is notable for its unique combustion method. Unlike traditional gasoline engines that rely on spark plugs for ignition, Skyactiv-X employs a high compression ratio (16.3:1) and utilizes a small spark to initiate a rich air-fuel mixture, which then auto-ignites due to the heat generated by compression. This process, known as HCCI (Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition), allows for leaner combustion and improved fuel efficiency. The engine features direct injection and a 4-8-1 exhaust manifold design to optimize exhaust gas flow and further enhance efficiency. The Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission is a conventional six-speed unit with a torque converter. It’s programmed for smooth shifts and prioritizes fuel economy over aggressive performance. It lacks the quick responsiveness of a dual-clutch transmission but offers a more comfortable driving experience for everyday use.
Driving Characteristics
The 180 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque produced by the 2.0 Skyactiv-X engine, coupled with the six-speed automatic, provide adequate performance for daily driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 8.4 seconds. While not particularly sporty, the engine delivers a linear power delivery, making it predictable and easy to modulate. The automatic transmission is generally smooth, but can sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration or when downshifting. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness. The higher-output engine options (like those found in the CX-30 Turbo) offer significantly more power and a more engaging driving experience, but at the cost of fuel economy. The Skyactiv-X engine is quieter than many traditional gasoline engines, contributing to a more refined driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CX-30 2.0 Skyactiv-X with Skyactiv-Drive was typically offered in well-equipped trim levels, often positioned as a mid-range option. Standard features generally included Mazda’s infotainment system with an 8.8-inch display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a rearview camera, and a suite of safety features like lane departure warning, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with available upgrades to leatherette or genuine leather. Optional extras included a premium sound system, a power sunroof, heated front seats, and adaptive cruise control. The dashboard layout is clean and modern, with a focus on driver ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The CX-30 utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with independent suspension at all four corners. The front suspension consists of MacPherson struts, while the rear employs a torsion beam setup. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality, although it’s not as sporty as some competitors with more sophisticated rear suspension designs. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The braking system is adequate for everyday use, providing sufficient stopping power. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) are standard features.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mazda CX-30 2.0 Skyactiv-X with Skyactiv-Drive received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, refined interior, and fuel-efficient engine. However, some reviewers noted that the Skyactiv-X engine didn’t always deliver the promised fuel economy gains in real-world driving conditions. Compared to other trims in the CX-30 lineup, this variant offered a good balance of performance, efficiency, and price. The base 2.0-liter engine was less powerful, while the higher-output options were more expensive. Competitors like the Honda HR-V and Toyota C-HR offered similar levels of practicality and fuel efficiency, but the CX-30 stood out with its more premium interior and engaging driving dynamics.
Legacy
The Skyactiv-X engine, while innovative, has faced some long-term reliability concerns related to carbon buildup on the spark plugs, potentially leading to misfires. Regular maintenance, including the use of high-quality fuel and occasional spark plug cleaning, is recommended to mitigate this issue. The Skyactiv-Drive transmission has proven to be generally reliable, with few reported issues. On the used car market, the CX-30 2.0 Skyactiv-X with Skyactiv-Drive holds its value reasonably well, thanks to its appealing design and reputation for quality. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential carbon buildup issue with the Skyactiv-X engine and ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained.
