The Mazda CX-30 1.8 Skyactiv-D Skyactiv-Drive, produced from September 2019 to March 2021, represents a key entry point into the CX-30 crossover SUV range, particularly in European and Asian markets. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and refined option, this variant combined a 1.8-liter diesel engine with Mazda’s six-speed Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission. It aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a compact SUV with low running costs and a comfortable driving experience. The CX-30 itself was Mazda’s attempt to capture a growing segment of buyers desiring a more stylish and premium alternative to traditional compact crossovers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mazda |
| Model | CX-30 |
| Generation | CX-30 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 Skyactiv-D (116 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) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 129 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12 sec |
| Maximum speed | 183 km/h (113.71 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.8 kg/Hp, 84.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 196.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 116 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1600-2600 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1600-2600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | S8Y1 |
| Engine displacement | 1759 cm3 (107.34 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89.7 mm (3.53 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 14.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.1 l (5.39 US qt | 4.49 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt | 6.25 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1371-1461 kg (3022.54 – 3220.95 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1969 kg (4340.9 lbs.) |
| Max load | 508-598 kg (1119.95 – 1318.36 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 (turning diameter) | 11.37 m (37.3 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/65 R16; 215/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CX-30 1.8 Skyactiv-D Skyactiv-Drive is the S8Y1 engine, a 1.759-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is part of Mazda’s Skyactiv technology suite, focusing on efficiency and reduced emissions. It features a high compression ratio of 14.8:1, contributing to its thermal efficiency. The engine utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve torque across a wider rev range. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle.
The Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission is a six-speed unit designed to provide smooth and efficient gear changes. Unlike traditional torque-converter automatics, the Skyactiv-Drive utilizes a torque converter with a very tight lock-up clutch, minimizing energy loss and improving fuel economy. It also features quick shift times and a manual shift mode for more driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The 116 horsepower and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque produced by the 1.8 Skyactiv-D engine, coupled with the six-speed automatic, resulted in a comfortable but not particularly sporty driving experience. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 12.6 seconds, making it adequate for everyday driving but not ideal for quick overtaking maneuvers. The automatic transmission was programmed for fuel efficiency, often prioritizing higher gears at lower speeds. While this contributed to good fuel economy, it could sometimes feel sluggish, requiring a downshift for more responsive acceleration. Compared to the more powerful gasoline variants or even higher-output diesel versions, this configuration prioritized economy over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CX-30 1.8 Skyactiv-D Skyactiv-Drive typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These generally included air conditioning, a 7-inch infotainment screen with Mazda’s MZD Connect system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features such as lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades on higher trim levels. Available options included a sunroof, premium audio system, and adaptive cruise control. The specific trim levels and available options varied depending on the market.
Chassis & Braking
The CX-30 utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with independent suspension at the front and a torsion beam rear suspension. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The suspension setup was tuned for comfort and stability, providing a relatively smooth ride quality. The steering is an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering light and precise steering feel. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mazda CX-30 1.8 Skyactiv-D Skyactiv-Drive was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and stylish design. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked outright power, particularly when fully loaded or tackling steep hills. Compared to the more powerful gasoline variants, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy but at the expense of performance. Against competitors like the Nissan Qashqai or Volkswagen T-Roc, the CX-30 stood out for its premium interior and engaging driving dynamics, even with the lower-powered engine.
Legacy
The 1.8 Skyactiv-D engine, when paired with the Skyactiv-Drive transmission, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While diesel engines, in general, can be more susceptible to issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not driven on longer journeys regularly, the Skyactiv-D engine has a good reputation for durability. On the used car market, the CX-30 1.8 Skyactiv-D Skyactiv-Drive represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and well-equipped compact SUV. Its combination of style, comfort, and economy continues to make it an attractive option in the used car segment.
