Mazda Adds AWD To The CX-30 In Top-Spec Form

We’re barely a few months since the newest Mazda crossover made its Malaysian debut, but Bermaz Motor has already seen fit to introduce a mild revision with the addition of a new all-wheel drive variant.

The CX-30 2.0G High AWD now sits atop the CX-30 hierarchy, priced at RM176,059 (OTR without insurance), making it around RM3,000 dearer than the previous top spec 1.8D High. As it’s name denotes, there’s a 2.0-litre SkyActiv-G petrol engine under the bonnet producing 162hp and 213Nm.

The four-cylinder unit is familiar to anyone versed in their Mazda powertrains, unchanged from other CX-30 variants in the local range and mated to a 6-speed SkyActiv-Drive automatic transmission.

One could argue that front-wheel drive is more than enough to handle the naturally aspirated four-cylinder’s output in any situation and that AWD might be a little unnecessary for an urban-friendly crossover, but regardless the newly added CX-30 variant uses Mazda’s i-Activ all-wheel drive system.

The driveline remains predominantly front-driven but a control module is continually measuring surface conditions and ambient readings to dynamically alter how much torque is sent to the rear axle and also works in tandem with G-Vectoring Control Plus for a more sure-footed drive.

Of course, being the only AWD variant in the range, you’re out of luck if all-paw grip is a top priority yet your budget doesn’t stretch as far as this newly introduced range topper.

In terms of equipment, the 2.0G High AWD is specified identically to the 2.0G High, which means goodies such as full LED headlights and taillights, 18-inch wheels, dual-zone climate control, and an 8.8-inch Mazda Connect infotainment system all come as standard.

There’s also leather upholstery, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, a head-up display (Active Driving Display), as well as Mazda’s i-Activsense suite that includes numerous safety and convenience features such as Rear Cross Traffic Alert, front and rear Smart City Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Departures Warning, and Radar Cruise Control.

Now, Mazda has also taken the opportunity to update the entry-level 2.0G variant of the CX-30 with keyless entry and a proximity-based automatic locking function. As a result, the new base price of the Mazda crossover has risen by RM2,700 to RM145,759.

Of course, all variants come with Mazda’s 5-Year warranty which includes 5 years of free maintenance, inclusive of labour, parts and lubricants.