The Mazda MX-30 SUV is the first-ever all-electric SUV by the Japanese automaker with a plug-in hybrid variant. With a coupe-like exterior, the subcompact-sized SUV was slated to drop in early 2021, but in limited numbers. For starters, only 500 units were to ship to the UK. This urban EV will be released much later on in the year in the U. S markets. 

The Mazda MX-30 bears all the hallmark offerings of your typical Mazda SUV. This electric vehicle has reverse-hinged rear doors as other popular SUV models. The SUV has a similar wheelbase to other crossovers, like the CX-50. 

The Mazda MX-30 has an interesting powertrain 

This new Mazda MX-30 features an advanced motor powered by a lithium-ion battery. This powerful battery can power the car to maximum ranges of up to 124 miles, MotorTrend tells us.

The Japanese manufacturer claims that the lithium pack batteries are more eco-friendly and they’ll significantly reduce your lifetime carbon imprints.

Mazda MX-30 variants 

Besides this electric model, Mazda plans to release variants having both electric and fuel-powered rotary engines as well. This range-extender and the pure-electric models feature a 50 kWh fast-charging battery capable of charging up to 80% in just 36 minutes, according to Auto Express.

The company also has a closed hybrid SUV model with a significantly larger fuel capacity in the works. The hybrid model will have a small battery to power the vehicle for short bursts. 

Handling and performance of MX-30

In stark contrast with other top electric cars, the Mazda MX-30 is built for finesse handling as opposed to straight-line speeds. The SUV offers a smooth ride, especially around rough corners, thanks to a softer suspension on its chassis. The electric motors are conveniently housed on the SUV’s front hood.

The pure-electric SUV features a three-tier regenerative braking system. The brakes are controlled via paddles located on the SUV’s steering wheel. It’s a bit difficult for users to park the electric SUV owning to the small and dark rear windows. The smaller rear spaces also pose sitting challenges to the back seat occupants. 

What does the interior & exterior of MX-30 look like?

The basic MX-30 all-electric model has an 18-inch touchscreen system. The system is compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay technologies for non-stop entertainment. You control the infotainment system via a rotary knob placed on the dashboard’s center.

The more costly variants have impressive features like a piano black and chrome trim, keyless entry, heated seats, privacy glass, sunroof, 360-degree parking cams, and a 12-speaker Bose stereo system. The MX-30 has a comfy leather steering wheel 

How safe is the Mazda MX-30?

As of now, conclusive safety test results of the MX-30 are yet to be made public, but, the SUV boasts of features like automated emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assistance, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring and, even rear cross-traffic alerts.