A Look Back: Mazda MX-30 Hybrid review (MHEV)!
Unveiled in 2021, the Mazda MX-30 was a head-turning subcompact crossover SUV that offered a range of powertrain options, including a battery electric (BEV) version, a first for Mazda. But what truly set it apart was the availability of a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model with a rotary engine acting as a generator to extend the electric driving range. This revived the use of the Wankel engine, which technology enthusiasts might remember from iconic Mazda sports cars like the RX-8.
Pros:
- Wankel rotary engine for extended range
- High-quality interior
- Smooth ride suitable for urban commuting
Cons:
- Limited rear passenger space
- Clunky engine restarts
- Rear styling and visibility can be challenging
Beyond its unique powertrain choices, the MX-30 boasted innovative features like freestyle doors (think reverse-hinged rear doors) reminiscent of its sporty heritage and a driver-centric interior designed for comfort. With a driving range of up to 224 km on battery only and 797 km in total, the MX-30 offered a glimpse into the future of Mazda's hybrid vehicle ambitions. However, the story takes an interesting turn down under. While the MX-30 made waves globally, its Australian adventure seems short-lived. In August 2023, Mazda announced the discontinuation of the MX-30 and the CX-8 SUV to make way for a new wave of electrified vehicles. Did the discontinuation of the MX-30 reflect any specific challenges it faced in the Australian market? Let’s find out!
| Variants | Used price | Fuel type | Fuel consumption |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mazda MX 30 e-Skyactiv-G M Hybrid | $27,490 | Hybrid | 6.4 l/100km |
Exteriors
Styling elements
The Mazda MX-30, though discontinued in Australia, was a looker. This subcompact crossover SUV wasn't your typical boxy rig. Its sloping roofline offered a sportier silhouette than its CX-30 counterpart. The real head-turners, though, were the freestyle doors – reverse-hinged rear doors reminiscent of the RX-8 sports car. These "suicide doors" and the lack of a B-pillar created a dramatic entrance and an airy feel. The front boasted Mazda's signature Kodo design with a bold grille and sleek LED headlights. Sculpted lines flowed along the sides, accented by black cladding for a touch of ruggedness.
Colour options
The Mazda MX-30's colour options depended on your preference for classic elegance or a more eye-catching look. For those who prefer timeless style, the MX-30 offered a selection of classic colours, and if you craved a bit more personality, two-tone colour combinations were available.
Classic colours included Black, White, and Silver.
Two-toned options could be paired with a contrasting black roof with the following body colours, including Soul Red Crystal Metallic, Machine Gray Metallic, Deep Crystal Blue Mica, and Snowflake White Pearl Mica.
Wheel design
The MX-30 stood out not just for its doors but also for its sharp footwear. 18-inch alloy wheels were standard across all trims. Depending on the chosen exterior colour, these came in either a silver or bright silver finish.
Interiors
The Mazda MX-30, despite its discontinuation in Australia, offered an interior designed with both comfort and driver focus in mind. However, it's important to remember this was a subcompact crossover SUV, so spaciousness had limitations.
Interior layout and space
The MX-30 aimed to create a sense of tranquillity and focus within the cabin. High-quality materials were used throughout, with soft-touch plastics on the dashboard and upper door trims. The seats combined fabric and vegan leather, balancing comfort and a premium feel. A unique touch was using cork on the centre console and cup holders, adding a sustainable element and a nod to Mazda's heritage.
While the front seats offered ample headroom (38.5 inches) and legroom (
41.6 inches) for comfortable rides, the subcompact design became more evident in the back seat. Taller adults would definitely find headroom (
37 inches) limited, and legroom (30.1 inches) is tight on longer trips. The MX-30's interior layout was best suited for couples or small families, prioritising style and driver comfort over extensive passenger space.
Comfort and ergonomics
The driver was the central focus when designing the MX-30's interior. The steering wheel offered a wide range of adjustments for optimal positioning, and the instrument cluster was designed for easy reading. Controls were well-placed and intuitive, minimising distractions while driving. The driver's seat also offered adjustments for lumbar support, ensuring a comfortable driving posture on long journeys.
Boot
The Mazda MX-30's subcompact size also affected its boot space. With the rear seats in place, the MX-30 offered a cargo capacity of around 366 litres, which is on the smaller side compared to some traditional SUVs. The Mazda MX-30 boot offers a practical solution for everyday needs, but if hauling massive amounts of cargo is a priority, other SUV options are better suited for your needs.
Technology and infotainment
The Mazda MX-30 boasted a respectable suite of tech features catering to comfort, convenience, and connectivity.
Infotainment system
The heart of the MX-30's tech offerings was an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. While not the biggest on the market, it delivered clear visuals and a user-friendly user interface. You could interact with the system through three methods: directly touching the screen, using a rotary knob on the centre console for minimising distraction while driving, or using voice commands for a hands-free approach.
Driver display
The instrument cluster featured a 7-inch TFT display that presented crucial driving information such as speed, fuel level, and driving range. It offered a clear and concise layout, keeping you informed without overwhelming you. Some higher trim levels might have offered a partially digital instrument cluster that could display additional information options, further enhancing the driving experience.
Connectivity
Standard features likely included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless smartphone integration. This meant you could access your music library navigation apps and even make phone calls through the car's infotainment system, keeping you connected and entertained on the go. Bluetooth connectivity was also standard, enabling hands-free phone calls and music streaming directly from your phone. USB ports provided additional options for charging devices and playing media files stored on flash drives.
Navigation
While some trim levels might have included integrated Mazda navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto offered alternative navigation options. Apps like Google Maps or Waze must be used through the car's infotainment system, providing familiar and up-to-date navigation features.
Additional tech highlights
The MX-30 boasted a head-up display that directly projected information like speed and navigation onto the windshield. This innovative feature minimised the need to take your eyes off the road for crucial information, enhancing safety and driver focus. Additionally, a 360-degree camera system was available in higher trims. This system provides a bird's-eye view of your surroundings, making parking manoeuvres and navigating tight spaces a breeze.
Performance and engine
While the Mazda MX-30 in Australia was only available as a Mild Hybrid (MHEV) variant, it wasn't a hybrid in the traditional sense.
Engine specifications
The Mazda MX-30 e-Skyactiv-G M Hybrid has a 2.0-litre inline-four cylinder 16-valve DOHC S-VT petrol engine featuring M Hybrid and i-stop technology, delivering 152 horsepower and 200 Nm of torque.
| Variants | Engine | Power | Torque |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mazda MX 30 e-Skyactiv-G M Hybrid | 2.0 litre in-line 4 cylinder 16 valve DOHC S-VT petrol with M Hybrid and i-stop | 152 Hp | 200 Nm |
Drivetrain and Power
The core of the MX-30 MHEV's powertrain was a 2.0-liter e-Skyactiv-G four-cylinder gasoline engine. Unlike a full hybrid system, this variant lacked a separate electric motor that directly propelled the wheels. However, a small electric motor and a 24-volt battery pack did assist the gasoline engine in specific situations.
Driving and handling
This unique setup enhanced fuel efficiency by providing a gentle electric boost during acceleration and allowing the gasoline engine to shut off during idling or coasting. While we didn't find the acceleration to be as exhilarating, the focus was on a smooth and comfortable driving experience, making it well-suited for everyday commutes.
Fuel economy
The MHEV's main advantage was its claimed fuel efficiency of around 2.0 litres per 100 kilometres (combined cycle). This translated to lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions compared to a traditional gasoline-powered SUV of similar size. While it wasn't a full hybrid or electric vehicle, the MHEV offered a step towards a more environmentally conscious driving experience with its improved fuel efficiency.
Braking system
The Mazda MX-30 M Hybrid's braking system incorporated regenerative braking, a key feature of its mild hybrid technology. Kinetic energy is captured and converted into electrical energy during braking and deceleration. We noticed a distinctive braking feel, where the vehicle slowed down more aggressively when it lifted off the accelerator pedal. Regenerative braking enhances efficiency by reducing reliance on traditional friction brakes and contributes to a smoother driving experience tailored to eco-conscious driving habits.
Safety features
The Mazda MX-30 MHEV prioritised passenger safety with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including an airbag system, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. Additional features like traction control and blind spot monitoring further assisted in avoiding collisions.
Some of these safety features include:
- Airbags SRS: Front (driver and passenger), Side (front and rear), Curtain (front and rear), Far side (driver), Knee (driver)
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
- Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)
- Childproof rear door locks
- Cruising & Traffic Support
- Driver Attention Alert (DAA)
- Driver Monitoring
- Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
- Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
- Emergency Brake Assist (EBA)
- Emergency Lane Keeping with Road Keep Assist
- Emergency Lane Keeping with Blind Spot Assist
- Emergency Stop Signal (ESS)
- Engine immobiliser
- Forward Obstruction Warning (FOW)
- Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA)
- High Beam Control (HBC)
- Hill Launch Assist (HLA)
- ISOFIX child restraint anchor points and top tethers (2)
- Lane-keep Assist System (LAS)
- Left-hand-side convex (wide angle) exterior mirror
- Parking sensors (front and rear)
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
- Remote central locking (2 transmitters)
- Reverse camera
- Seat-belt warning (front and rear)
- Seat-belts with pre-tensioners, load-limiters, and height-adjustable shoulder anchorages (front and rear)
- Side impact door beams
- Smart Brake Support (SBS) with front pedestrian and cycle detection
- Smart Brake Support - Rear (SCS-R)
- Smart Brake Support - Rear Crossing (SBS-RC)
- Smart Brake Support - Turn-across Traffic
- Traction Control System (TCS)
- Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR)
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- Whiplash-minimising front seats
Furthermore, before discontinuing, the car received a 5-star rating from ANCAP, underscoring its exceptional safety credentials. This rating assures prospective buyers that will now have to invest in the older models that they are recognised for their high safety standards by ANCAP.
- Adult Occupant Protection: 93%
- Child Occupant Protection: 87%
- Vulnerable Road User Protection: 68%
- Safety Assist: 74%
Ownership experience
Opinions are mixed based on the user experiences shared about the Mazda MX-30 Hybrid. Positives include its high-quality interior, comfortable seats, and solid build, complemented by good ride quality and manageable road noise. Handling and driver assistance technology like radar cruise control are praised for effectiveness. However, criticisms focus on clunky engine restarts, touchscreen HVAC controls, and divisive rear styling. Rear visibility and access are noted challenges, exacerbated by the suicide doors in tight parking situations. Audio system quality and concerns about the durability of the cork interior finish are also mentioned. While some enjoy its unique design and driving dynamics, others find certain aspects less appealing.
Major strengths
- The impressive interior quality features firm yet comfortable seats and high-quality materials. The cork accents add a unique touch.
- It offers a smooth and comfortable ride with acceptable road noise levels, especially on smooth roads.
- Excellent handling typical of Mazda vehicles, providing a confident driving experience.
- Front styling is appealing and distinctive, contributing to its overall aesthetic charm.
- Comes equipped with advanced driver assistance technologies like radar cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist, enhancing safety and convenience.
- Power delivery is adequate for daily driving, keeping up with traffic effortlessly.
Major drawbacks
- Engine restarts from i-Stop can be clunky and result in noticeable lurching, unlike the smoother transitions in some competing models.
- HVAC controls are partly touchscreen-operated, which some users find less intuitive or prefer physical buttons for functions like fan speed and air direction.
- Rear styling receives criticism for not being as visually appealing or cohesive as the front design.
- A thick C-pillar and the shape of the rear window hinder rear three-quarter visibility, making head-checking challenging.
- Suicide doors provide unique access but can be cumbersome in tight parking spots when coupled with adjacent vehicles.
- There are concerns about the durability of the cork material over time, especially given the car's recent release and the limited longevity data.
Maintenance costs and Warranty information
Maintenance for the MX-30 Hybrid could range between $1,500 to $2,000 over 5 years, aligning closer to the petrol variant's costs due to hybrid-specific needs. The Mazda MX-30 Hybrid is backed by a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty, ensuring comprehensive coverage against manufacturing defects for any necessary repairs or replacements during the initial ownership period.
Verdict
The now discontinued Mazda MX-30 Hybrid, introduced in 2021, blends innovative design with eco-friendly technology, featuring a unique plug-in hybrid model with a Wankel rotary engine as a range extender. Its distinctive freestyle doors and Kodo design language highlight its aesthetic appeal in the subcompact SUV segment. Though rear passenger space is limited, the MX-30 offers a high-quality interior with sustainable cork accents. It excels in fuel efficiency with regenerative braking and delivers a smooth ride ideal for urban commuting. Safety is robust with advanced features and a 5-star ANCAP rating. Despite criticisms like clunky engine restarts and difficulty in opening the suicide doors in tight spaces, the MX-30 MHEV provided a smooth ride, good driving dynamics, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance features for a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
Reference
Owner’s Manual
Unveiled in 2021, the Mazda MX-30 was a head-turning subcompact crossover SUV that offered a range of powertrain options, including a battery electric (BEV) version, a first for Mazda. But what truly set it apart was the availability of a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model with a rotary engine acting as a generator to extend the electric driving range. This revived the use of the Wankel engine, which technology enthusiasts might remember from iconic Mazda sports cars like the RX-8.
Pros:
- Wankel rotary engine for extended range
- High-quality interior
- Smooth ride suitable for urban commuting
Cons:
- Limited rear passenger space
- Clunky engine restarts
- Rear styling and visibility can be challenging
Beyond its unique powertrain choices, the MX-30 boasted innovative features like freestyle doors (think reverse-hinged rear doors) reminiscent of its sporty heritage and a driver-centric interior designed for comfort. With a driving range of up to 224 km on battery only and 797 km in total, the MX-30 offered a glimpse into the future of Mazda's hybrid vehicle ambitions. However, the story takes an interesting turn down under. While the MX-30 made waves globally, its Australian adventure seems short-lived. In August 2023, Mazda announced the discontinuation of the MX-30 and the CX-8 SUV to make way for a new wave of electrified vehicles. Did the discontinuation of the MX-30 reflect any specific challenges it faced in the Australian market? Let’s find out!
| Variants | Used price | Fuel type | Fuel consumption |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mazda MX 30 e-Skyactiv-G M Hybrid | $27,490 | Hybrid | 6.4 l/100km |
Exteriors
Styling elements
The Mazda MX-30, though discontinued in Australia, was a looker. This subcompact crossover SUV wasn't your typical boxy rig. Its sloping roofline offered a sportier silhouette than its CX-30 counterpart. The real head-turners, though, were the freestyle doors – reverse-hinged rear doors reminiscent of the RX-8 sports car. These "suicide doors" and the lack of a B-pillar created a dramatic entrance and an airy feel. The front boasted Mazda's signature Kodo design with a bold grille and sleek LED headlights. Sculpted lines flowed along the sides, accented by black cladding for a touch of ruggedness.
Colour options
The Mazda MX-30's colour options depended on your preference for classic elegance or a more eye-catching look. For those who prefer timeless style, the MX-30 offered a selection of classic colours, and if you craved a bit more personality, two-tone colour combinations were available.
Classic colours included Black, White, and Silver.
Two-toned options could be paired with a contrasting black roof with the following body colours, including Soul Red Crystal Metallic, Machine Gray Metallic, Deep Crystal Blue Mica, and Snowflake White Pearl Mica.
Wheel design
The MX-30 stood out not just for its doors but also for its sharp footwear. 18-inch alloy wheels were standard across all trims. Depending on the chosen exterior colour, these came in either a silver or bright silver finish.
Interiors
The Mazda MX-30, despite its discontinuation in Australia, offered an interior designed with both comfort and driver focus in mind. However, it's important to remember this was a subcompact crossover SUV, so spaciousness had limitations.
Interior layout and space
The MX-30 aimed to create a sense of tranquillity and focus within the cabin. High-quality materials were used throughout, with soft-touch plastics on the dashboard and upper door trims. The seats combined fabric and vegan leather, balancing comfort and a premium feel. A unique touch was using cork on the centre console and cup holders, adding a sustainable element and a nod to Mazda's heritage.
While the front seats offered ample headroom (38.5 inches) and legroom (
41.6 inches) for comfortable rides, the subcompact design became more evident in the back seat. Taller adults would definitely find headroom (
37 inches) limited, and legroom (30.1 inches) is tight on longer trips. The MX-30's interior layout was best suited for couples or small families, prioritising style and driver comfort over extensive passenger space.
Comfort and ergonomics
The driver was the central focus when designing the MX-30's interior. The steering wheel offered a wide range of adjustments for optimal positioning, and the instrument cluster was designed for easy reading. Controls were well-placed and intuitive, minimising distractions while driving. The driver's seat also offered adjustments for lumbar support, ensuring a comfortable driving posture on long journeys.
Boot
The Mazda MX-30's subcompact size also affected its boot space. With the rear seats in place, the MX-30 offered a cargo capacity of around 366 litres, which is on the smaller side compared to some traditional SUVs. The Mazda MX-30 boot offers a practical solution for everyday needs, but if hauling massive amounts of cargo is a priority, other SUV options are better suited for your needs.
Technology and infotainment
The Mazda MX-30 boasted a respectable suite of tech features catering to comfort, convenience, and connectivity.
Infotainment system
The heart of the MX-30's tech offerings was an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. While not the biggest on the market, it delivered clear visuals and a user-friendly user interface. You could interact with the system through three methods: directly touching the screen, using a rotary knob on the centre console for minimising distraction while driving, or using voice commands for a hands-free approach.
Driver display
The instrument cluster featured a 7-inch TFT display that presented crucial driving information such as speed, fuel level, and driving range. It offered a clear and concise layout, keeping you informed without overwhelming you. Some higher trim levels might have offered a partially digital instrument cluster that could display additional information options, further enhancing the driving experience.
Connectivity
Standard features likely included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless smartphone integration. This meant you could access your music library navigation apps and even make phone calls through the car's infotainment system, keeping you connected and entertained on the go. Bluetooth connectivity was also standard, enabling hands-free phone calls and music streaming directly from your phone. USB ports provided additional options for charging devices and playing media files stored on flash drives.
Navigation
While some trim levels might have included integrated Mazda navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto offered alternative navigation options. Apps like Google Maps or Waze must be used through the car's infotainment system, providing familiar and up-to-date navigation features.
Additional tech highlights
The MX-30 boasted a head-up display that directly projected information like speed and navigation onto the windshield. This innovative feature minimised the need to take your eyes off the road for crucial information, enhancing safety and driver focus. Additionally, a 360-degree camera system was available in higher trims. This system provides a bird's-eye view of your surroundings, making parking manoeuvres and navigating tight spaces a breeze.
Performance and engine
While the Mazda MX-30 in Australia was only available as a Mild Hybrid (MHEV) variant, it wasn't a hybrid in the traditional sense.
Engine specifications
The Mazda MX-30 e-Skyactiv-G M Hybrid has a 2.0-litre inline-four cylinder 16-valve DOHC S-VT petrol engine featuring M Hybrid and i-stop technology, delivering 152 horsepower and 200 Nm of torque.
| Variants | Engine | Power | Torque |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mazda MX 30 e-Skyactiv-G M Hybrid | 2.0 litre in-line 4 cylinder 16 valve DOHC S-VT petrol with M Hybrid and i-stop | 152 Hp | 200 Nm |
Drivetrain and Power
The core of the MX-30 MHEV's powertrain was a 2.0-liter e-Skyactiv-G four-cylinder gasoline engine. Unlike a full hybrid system, this variant lacked a separate electric motor that directly propelled the wheels. However, a small electric motor and a 24-volt battery pack did assist the gasoline engine in specific situations.
Driving and handling
This unique setup enhanced fuel efficiency by providing a gentle electric boost during acceleration and allowing the gasoline engine to shut off during idling or coasting. While we didn't find the acceleration to be as exhilarating, the focus was on a smooth and comfortable driving experience, making it well-suited for everyday commutes.
Fuel economy
The MHEV's main advantage was its claimed fuel efficiency of around 2.0 litres per 100 kilometres (combined cycle). This translated to lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions compared to a traditional gasoline-powered SUV of similar size. While it wasn't a full hybrid or electric vehicle, the MHEV offered a step towards a more environmentally conscious driving experience with its improved fuel efficiency.
Braking system
The Mazda MX-30 M Hybrid's braking system incorporated regenerative braking, a key feature of its mild hybrid technology. Kinetic energy is captured and converted into electrical energy during braking and deceleration. We noticed a distinctive braking feel, where the vehicle slowed down more aggressively when it lifted off the accelerator pedal. Regenerative braking enhances efficiency by reducing reliance on traditional friction brakes and contributes to a smoother driving experience tailored to eco-conscious driving habits.
Safety features
The Mazda MX-30 MHEV prioritised passenger safety with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including an airbag system, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. Additional features like traction control and blind spot monitoring further assisted in avoiding collisions.
Some of these safety features include:
- Airbags SRS: Front (driver and passenger), Side (front and rear), Curtain (front and rear), Far side (driver), Knee (driver)
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
- Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)
- Childproof rear door locks
- Cruising & Traffic Support
- Driver Attention Alert (DAA)
- Driver Monitoring
- Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
- Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
- Emergency Brake Assist (EBA)
- Emergency Lane Keeping with Road Keep Assist
- Emergency Lane Keeping with Blind Spot Assist
- Emergency Stop Signal (ESS)
- Engine immobiliser
- Forward Obstruction Warning (FOW)
- Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA)
- High Beam Control (HBC)
- Hill Launch Assist (HLA)
- ISOFIX child restraint anchor points and top tethers (2)
- Lane-keep Assist System (LAS)
- Left-hand-side convex (wide angle) exterior mirror
- Parking sensors (front and rear)
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
- Remote central locking (2 transmitters)
- Reverse camera
- Seat-belt warning (front and rear)
- Seat-belts with pre-tensioners, load-limiters, and height-adjustable shoulder anchorages (front and rear)
- Side impact door beams
- Smart Brake Support (SBS) with front pedestrian and cycle detection
- Smart Brake Support - Rear (SCS-R)
- Smart Brake Support - Rear Crossing (SBS-RC)
- Smart Brake Support - Turn-across Traffic
- Traction Control System (TCS)
- Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR)
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- Whiplash-minimising front seats
Furthermore, before discontinuing, the car received a 5-star rating from ANCAP, underscoring its exceptional safety credentials. This rating assures prospective buyers that will now have to invest in the older models that they are recognised for their high safety standards by ANCAP.
- Adult Occupant Protection: 93%
- Child Occupant Protection: 87%
- Vulnerable Road User Protection: 68%
- Safety Assist: 74%
Ownership experience
Opinions are mixed based on the user experiences shared about the Mazda MX-30 Hybrid. Positives include its high-quality interior, comfortable seats, and solid build, complemented by good ride quality and manageable road noise. Handling and driver assistance technology like radar cruise control are praised for effectiveness. However, criticisms focus on clunky engine restarts, touchscreen HVAC controls, and divisive rear styling. Rear visibility and access are noted challenges, exacerbated by the suicide doors in tight parking situations. Audio system quality and concerns about the durability of the cork interior finish are also mentioned. While some enjoy its unique design and driving dynamics, others find certain aspects less appealing.
Major strengths
- The impressive interior quality features firm yet comfortable seats and high-quality materials. The cork accents add a unique touch.
- It offers a smooth and comfortable ride with acceptable road noise levels, especially on smooth roads.
- Excellent handling typical of Mazda vehicles, providing a confident driving experience.
- Front styling is appealing and distinctive, contributing to its overall aesthetic charm.
- Comes equipped with advanced driver assistance technologies like radar cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist, enhancing safety and convenience.
- Power delivery is adequate for daily driving, keeping up with traffic effortlessly.
Major drawbacks
- Engine restarts from i-Stop can be clunky and result in noticeable lurching, unlike the smoother transitions in some competing models.
- HVAC controls are partly touchscreen-operated, which some users find less intuitive or prefer physical buttons for functions like fan speed and air direction.
- Rear styling receives criticism for not being as visually appealing or cohesive as the front design.
- A thick C-pillar and the shape of the rear window hinder rear three-quarter visibility, making head-checking challenging.
- Suicide doors provide unique access but can be cumbersome in tight parking spots when coupled with adjacent vehicles.
- There are concerns about the durability of the cork material over time, especially given the car's recent release and the limited longevity data.
Maintenance costs and Warranty information
Maintenance for the MX-30 Hybrid could range between $1,500 to $2,000 over 5 years, aligning closer to the petrol variant's costs due to hybrid-specific needs. The Mazda MX-30 Hybrid is backed by a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty, ensuring comprehensive coverage against manufacturing defects for any necessary repairs or replacements during the initial ownership period.
Verdict
The now discontinued Mazda MX-30 Hybrid, introduced in 2021, blends innovative design with eco-friendly technology, featuring a unique plug-in hybrid model with a Wankel rotary engine as a range extender. Its distinctive freestyle doors and Kodo design language highlight its aesthetic appeal in the subcompact SUV segment. Though rear passenger space is limited, the MX-30 offers a high-quality interior with sustainable cork accents. It excels in fuel efficiency with regenerative braking and delivers a smooth ride ideal for urban commuting. Safety is robust with advanced features and a 5-star ANCAP rating. Despite criticisms like clunky engine restarts and difficulty in opening the suicide doors in tight spaces, the MX-30 MHEV provided a smooth ride, good driving dynamics, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance features for a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
Reference
Owner’s Manual
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