Mazda recently discontinued the MX-30 BEV in the US, but there was a rotary-engined range extender version that could have potentially been more successful. The MX-30 R-EV is a true extended-range electric vehicle with a combustion engine that never directly powers the wheels. The European spec model can cover up to 423 miles on a full battery and tank. The engine in the MX-30 R-EV is an 830cc single-rotor Wankel unit that starts up as you drive the car but does not directly power the wheels. The vehicle has three driving modes, including Normal, EV, and Charge, each allowing for different levels of battery usage.
The MX-30 R-EV provides a driving experience similar to the BEV variant, with slight upgrades in power and acceleration. The R-EV offers 168 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to sprint from 0 to 62 mph in 9.1 seconds. The performance and handling of the R-EV are comparable to the BEV, with sharp steering, minimal body roll, and a pleasant surge of torque from the electric motor. However, the electric motor’s response is not as immediate as in other EVs, providing a more gradual power delivery similar to an internal combustion engine vehicle.
The range extender in the MX-30 R-EV eliminates range anxiety for drivers, allowing them to drive the vehicle without constantly worrying about running out of charge. While the R-EV is labeled as a plug-in hybrid, it functions more like an EREV on the road. The MX-30 R-EV has a smaller battery capacity than the BEV variant but offers more peace of mind for drivers with the added range-extending capabilities of the rotary engine. However, there is a concern that some buyers may not use the plug-in feature of the R-EV, decreasing its overall efficiency compared to its claimed 235 mpg rating.
The MX-30 R-EV provides a pleasant driving experience for users who value practicality and convenience. The R-EV offers a unique driving experience with the rotary range extender and maintains the charming design and driving dynamics of the original MX-30. However, there is a debate about whether Mazda should have focused on increasing the battery capacity of the MX-30 rather than introducing the R-EV variant. Some argue that a larger battery and increased range would have made the standard MX-30 more appealing to buyers, especially those looking for an all-electric vehicle.
Overall, the MX-30 R-EV offers a compelling alternative for drivers who want the convenience of a range extender in addition to the benefits of an electric vehicle. While the R-EV may not be as efficient as claimed if not plugged in regularly, it still provides a respectable average fuel consumption rate, especially with a depleted battery. The R-EV variant is priced similarly to the BEV, making it an attractive option for consumers looking for a plug-in hybrid with added range-extending capabilities. Despite its potential success, there are lingering questions about whether the MX-30 R-EV could have been more successful with a larger battery capacity and increased all-electric range, making it a more appealing option for pure EV buyers.
