Why the 2023 Mazda MX-30 Still Falls Short in America
Mazda is producing an electric SUV, but it can’t cut the mustard for many consumers. The Mazda MX-30 is a subcompact SUV with one huge problem. Here’s why the new 2023 Mazda MX-30 still falls short in America.
The 2023 Mazda MX-30 can’t go the distance
When it comes to electric vehicles, driving range is one of the most important specs. An EV’s driving range is the distance that it can travel on a full battery before needing to stop and recharge. Like mpg estimates, driving range estimates often differ from real-world numbers, which is scary for the MX-30.
The Mazda MX-30 has a total driving range of 100 miles. That measly 100-mile is less than half of what the average electric vehicle is offering in terms of driving range. If the MX-30 was significantly cheaper than its rivals, its range would be more understandable. The 2023 Mazda MX-30 starts at $34,110.
According to InsideEVs, the MX-30 that’s offered in America won’t get any more driving range than the previous model year. This is troubling news to consumers. After all, a lack of practicality is still a huge part of why many drivers are still skeptical about switching from an internal combustion engine vehicle to an electric vehicle.
The European MX-30 is getting a range extender variant, but the American version of the subcompact electric SUV doesn’t have that option at the moment. So, more of the same driving range but at a slightly higher price point? Great. There is one type of driver that could still be interested in the EV, and it’s arguably a competitive model for this type of driver.
These drivers get the most value out of the Mazda MX-30
The Mazda MX-30 seems unpractical, but it’s a California-only model. California has some of the highest gas prices in the United States, but the networks of charging stations available in the state are increasing. So, there’s is a market for Mazda’s electric vehicle, it’s just very small.
If you’re a Californian with access to plenty of fast charging stations and have no qualms about getting a home charger installed, the MX-30 may be a viable option for you. Edmunds praises the SUV’s handling, cargo space, and quiet cabin. Kelley Blue Book shouts out its attractive exterior and cabin materials. The MX-30 may not be for everyone, but it does appeal to a specific type of Californian driver. Assuming that electric vehicle charging infrastructure drastically improves in the years to come, the MX-30 may yet have a place in the American electric future.
What are the best subcompact electric vehicles?
Some of the best subcompact electric vehicles include the Kia Niro EV and Hyundai Kona Electric. The 2023 Kia Niro EV starts at $39,550. It has 253 miles of estimated driving range. The Niro EV is praised for its many standard features and attractive interior.
The 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric starts at $33,550. It gets 258 miles of driving range. The subcompact electric SUV has an excellent warranty, and it shares many traits with the popular and quirky gas-powered version.
Let us know your pick for the best subcompact electric SUV in the comment section below.
