Bermaz Auto has confirmed that the highly anticipated 2020 Mazda CX-30 will be launching in Malaysia soon. Bookings are now open, with prices starting from RM 143,119.

Like the Mazda 3, the 2020 Mazda CX-30 will be imported from Japan. Clearly the much anticipated local assembly project didn’t materialize, at least not so soon.

s such, the Mazda CX-30’s mirrors the Mazda 3’s similarly high pricing, no thanks to the added taxes.

There will be three variants, two engine options, all only in front-wheel drive:

• Mazda CX-30 2.0L: RM 143,119

• Mazda CX-30 2.0L High: RM 164,119

• Mazda CX-30 1.8L High: RM 173,027  

The 2.0-litre petrol is the same SkyActiv-G engine used by the Mazda 3, which is an improved version of the previous Mazda 3’s unit. The mild hybrid SkyActiv-X will not be offered.

The four-cylinder engine makes 163 hp at 6,000 rpm and 213 Nm at 4,000 rpm, paired to a six-speed automatic transmission.

The 1.8-litre turbo diesel SkyActiv-D makes 114 hp at 4,000 rpm and 270 Nm from 1,600 – 2,700 rpm, paired to the same six-speed automatic as the petrol powered variants.

Specifications for the 2.0L Petrol High is identical to the 2.0L Diesel High.

The CX-30 is based on the Mazda 3, and sits between the Japan-made Mazda CX-3 and locally-assembled Mazda CX-5. However, as the Mazda CX-5 is locally-assembled and thus pays lower excises duties, it's priced lower (starting from RM 137k) than the CX-30.