Here it is - the incoming plug-in hybrid version of the Mazda MX-30.
The MX-30 itself is nothing new. The hatchback-SUV crossover has been available as an electric model since 2021.
The EV is a cool little car with great exterior styling which is perfect for city-dwellers.
But with a range of up to 124 miles between charges, it’s not ideal if you do a lot of motorway miles.
Now, though, you can enjoy the MX-30 with a frugal plug-in hybrid powertrain thanks to this new ‘e-Skyactiv R-EV’ variant.
And there’s plenty to be excited about.
First of all, the MX-30 R-EV marries a 17.8kWh battery with a 830cc rotary engine. A rotary engine is nothing new for Mazda and they’re specialists in the tech. But it’s still the first rotary engine from Mazda since the RX-8 sports car (below, in white) was discontinued in June 2012.
But if you want the condensed version, all you need to know is that a rotary engine is all about smooth power delivery and ease of acceleration, which means the hybrid MX-30 should be a real driver’s car.
Interestingly, the MX-30 R-EV is always driven by the electric motor. The rotary engine just acts as a generator to put charge into the battery, or to provide a small surge of power when needed.
So, the plug-in hybrid MX-30 will still drive and feel like an electric vehicle, with all the associated get-up-and-go.
On that front, you can expect power of 170 PS - more than you get with the fully electric MX-30 - and a respectable 0-62 mph time of 9.1 seconds.
Perhaps more importantly, you can also expect an extremely healthy range of up to 53 miles using electricity alone, which Mazda says is, ‘sufficient for most daily driving needs’.
Rapid charging can replenish the battery in around 25 minus.
And CO2 emissions are low at 21g/km, which means the plug-in hybrid Mazda MX-30 might make for a good company car with a low Benefit in Kind (BIK) tax rate.
There are four main trim levels to choose from - the entry level ‘Prime-Lime’ through to ‘Exclusive-Line’, ‘Makoto’, and the range-topping Edition R.
Throughout the trim range, all of the MX-30 R-EV cars get unique alloys compared with the electric MX-30.
And those entry-level Prime Line models are generously equipped, coming with an 8.8-inch touchscreen with sat nav, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, head-up display, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and a reversing camera.
Jeremy Thomson, Managing Director, Mazda Motors UK, said: “I’m really excited about the new MX-30 R-EV joining our electrified line-up in the UK this autumn. A great example of Mazda’s challenger spirit, thanks to its unique technological approach, it’s a car that’s the perfect solution for customers who want an electric car for everyday usage but the flexibility to undertake longer journeys without the reliance on charging infrastructure. With the option to choose either the pure electric MX-30 or the new R-EV version depending on their needs, our customers now have even more choice.”
You can now order the MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV with Select Car Leasing right now, with prices starting at £357 per month*. It's a rival to cars like the plug-in hybrid Kia Niro, the Hyundai Kona hybrid, and the Volkswagen Golf plug-in hybrid.
*Prices include VAT. Credit is Subject to Status, Ts and Cs and Arrangement Fees apply. Excess mileage may apply. Stock levels and prices correct as of 23/06/23.
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