Review of the Mazda MX-30

If you're after a reliable and well-equipped crossover SUV, look no further than the Mazda MX-30. Available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain and a superb infotainment system, the MX-30 is perfect for small families or urban drivers. 

Rivals to the MX-30 include the Nissan Qashqai, Kia Niro Hybrid, Audi Q3, and Hyundai Kona Hybrid. 

Our Mazda MX-30 review covers:

• Chunky exterior design with coupe-style rear roofline 
• Clean interior design complemented by intuitive technology 
• 350-litre boot 
• Plug-in hybrid powertrain 
• Three trim levels 

Pros:

• Good infotainment system 
• Nice car to drive 
• Decent all-electric range for a plug-in hybrid 

Cons:

• Interior space is limited 
• Some rivals offer a better all-round package 

The Mazda MX-30's exterior follows the modern trend of coupe-styled crossover SUVs. Because of this, it has a pretty sharp and sporty exterior design, with a wide front grille, a declining rear roof, and large wheel arches. The only thing I don't like is the large bumpers that overhang from the front and back. They just look a bit odd. 

Interior space isn't one of the MX-30's strong points. While there's a decent amount of room up front, that can't be said for the rear. Although there are three seats, only two full-sized adults will be able to get comfortable. Younger children will be fine in the rear, but if they're in their growing phase, we'd recommend the more spacious Nissan Qashqai or Audi Q3. 

The MX-30's boot space is 350 litres, which is on the small side for a crossover SUV, falling short of the Kia Niro and Hyundai Kona. Regardless, the boot comes with a few handy features, such as a square shape and a large opening, making loading heavier items relatively straightforward.  

The MX-30's cabin is one of the best for a budget crossover SUV. It follows a minimalist design that's clean and simple and features a range of sustainable materials, such as vegan leather and a cork interior. You also get a nice blend of new and old-school features for controlling the dash, such as buttons, dials, and a touchscreen. 

Inside the MX-30, there's a two-screen setup. Sitting atop the dashboard is a 7-inch infotainment system that features built-in sat-nav, Bluetooth, and a DAB radio. Strangely, it's not a touchscreen and is controlled through a rotary controller on the centre divide. Just above the rotary controller is the second display, this time touchscreen, which controls the in-car climate control. 

Three trims are available for the MX-30: Prime-Line, Exclusive-Line, and Makoto. 

Prime-Line has 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, front and rear parking sensors, front rain-sensing wipers, blind spot monitoring, emergency lane-keeping assist, and traffic sign recognition. 

Exclusive-Line adds diamond-cut alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, heated front seats, a head-up display, light grey cloth seats with stone leatherette, and smart keyless entry. 

Makoto has adaptive LED headlights, a sunroof, a 360-degree view monitor, a heated steering wheel, a 12-speaker Bose surround sound system, driver monitoring, and a front cross-traffic alert. 

Under the bonnet, the MX-30 has a plug-in hybrid powertrain. It combines a small 830cc petrol engine with a 17.8kWh lithium-ion battery. Interestingly, the petrol engine is never used to power the wheels directly. Instead, it's used as a generator to top up the battery that powers the electric motors.  

It returns a combined 168bhp and can shoot from 0 to 62mph in nine seconds. You'll also be able to drive on pure-electric power for around 50 miles, which is better than the Kia Niro Hybrid and MG HS. 

If you're after a reliable daily driver, the MX-30 will fit the bill. It drives well both around town and on the motorway, and its electric range is perfect for small journeys. 

When operating around town, one of the first things you'll notice is that the suspension is a little firm. Like the Kia Niro Hybrid, there is a bit of bounce over potholes and bumps in the road, but even still, it's not enough to make you uncomfortable. 

You'll also have few issues navigating tight city streets, thanks to well-weighted steering and little body lean. However, due to the MX-30 being slightly larger than the Nissan Qashqai and Peugeot 2008, parking may be tricky. 

If you're on the motorway, the MX-30 is a decent cruiser. While accelerating isn't its forte, once at 70mph, the hybrid powertrain is a breeze to drive, and there's also little road and wind noise. 

Prices for the new Mazda MX-30 start from £31,440.00 OTR* or to lease from £261.31 per month.

Looking to get behind the wheel of the Mazda MX-30? Nationwide Vehicle Contracts is one of the UK's largest car leasing brokers and offers a range of leasing deals to suit your every need.

Leasing may be cheaper than an outright purchase, thanks to a low initial deposit and fixed monthly rentals.

*' On the road' price correct at time of publication and includes one year's road fund license, DVLA first registration fee and number plate fee. Prices are subject to change; always check with your nearest retailer.