PUTRAJAYA (Jan 15): Bermaz Auto Bhd launched the new Mazda CX-30, a new compact crossover SUV that sits between the CX-3 and CX-5 on the sizing scale.

At the launching ceremony today, Bermaz executive chairman Datuk Seri Ben Yeoh said with the rising popularity and demand for SUV in the domestic market, the new CX-30 will complement the group's existing range of SUVs.

"The size is just right for those who find the CX3 a bit small and want a slightly bigger cabin space," he said.

Yeoh said Bermaz, as the distributor for Mazda vehicles in Malaysia, will continue to pursue better ownership experience for Mazda cars' buyers.

"We started by undertaking a program to ensure our customers have a hassle free, five-year free maintenance and warranty program. This has contributed to the growing confidence for Mazda brand resulting in the need for more accessibility to our services. Now most of our major centres are open seven days a week to cater for the growing demand for our services," he said.

The Mazda CX-30 is currently completely built up (CBU) from Japan, and its selling price starts from RM143,059.

All new Mazda vehicles registered from Jan 1, 2019 onwards will have five-year manufacturer warranty and five-year free maintenance (except Mazda BT-50) according to manufacturer's standards inclusive of labour, parts and lubricants. Both the manufacturer warranty and free maintenance have a coverage period of five years and a mileage limit of 100,000km, whichever comes first.

The colour line-up includes Soul Red Crystal, Machine Gray, Jet Black, Deep Crystal Blue, Sonic Silver, Snowflake White Pearl, Titanium Flash and Polymetal Gray Metallic.

The CX-30 has increased height over a passenger car to enhance visibility while having a body size that is easy to manoeuvre on any road and in any parking lot.

Other performance attributes enhancements include acceleration, turning and braking.

In a statement today, Bermaz said the CX-30 is powered by the latest Skyactiv-G 2.0 gasoline engine for the higher variant, which delivers enhanced driving performance, fuel efficiency and eco-friendliness.

Meanwhile, the Skyactiv-D 1.8 diesel that powers the entry variant provides smooth and robust performance combined with a balance of fuel economy, quietness and low emissions.

The standard safety technologies in the Mazda CX-30 includes seven SRS airbags, anti-lock braking system, dynamic stability control, traction control system, emergency stop signal and hill launch assist.

This model also introduces a knee airbag for the driver's seat as standard equipment worldwide. By spreading forward motion of the driver's body in the event of a collision, this new airbag helps lessen injuries to the driver's legs.

At 11.10am, Bermaz shares dipped 0.49% or 1 sen to RM2.03, valuing it at RM2.36 billion.