Mazda MX-30 buying guide
Why buy the Mazda MX-30?
The Mazda MX-30 is a mid-size electric SUV that could be a great choice if you want a stylish and comfortable car for driving around town. Its styling includes unusual rear–hinged back doors and the interior features sustainable materials like cork and denim, giving you a premium feel with a relaxed atmosphere. You also get a lot of features as standard and the car feels great to drive.
Mazda MX-30 range and updates
The MX-30 is Mazda’s first electric car and has been sold new since 2020. It’s only available with a five-door body, albeit an unusual one: its back doors are rear-hinged so they open towards the back of the car. And there’s no pillar between the doors, so you have to open the front door before opening the back door.
All MX-30 models have a 147 brake horsepower (bhp) electric motor and an automatic gearbox, which give you nippier acceleration than you’d get from most petrol or diesel mid-size SUVs. The car also feels light and easy to manoeuvre, and can even be quite good fun.
There are three main trims to choose from – SE-L Lux, Sport Lux and GT Sport Tech. There are also limited First Edition and 100th Anniversary models that have different styling details and extra features.
Mazda MX-30 tech and features
All MX-30 models include lots of features as standard. The entry-point SE-L Lux has a touchscreen infotainment system with built-in sat nav, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. It also gives you climate control, adaptive cruise control, parking sensors and a reversing camera, with a head-up display to project driving information onto the windscreen. Sport Lux models have the same features but add sporty styling details, including bigger wheels. The top-of-the-range GT Sport Tech model adds heated leather seats and steering wheel, an opening panoramic roof and a powerful Bose sound system.
Mazda MX-30 running costs and value
All MX-30 models have a range of up to 124 miles from a fully charged battery, according to official figures, which is enough to cover most people’s weekly commutes. If you’re covering longer journeys, you’ll need to plan for regular recharging stops, but those stops won’t be long. The MX-30’s relatively small 35.5kWh battery can recharge from 20% to 80% in 36 minutes, using a 50kW public charger. Recharging at home takes a few hours using a wallbox charger. With this car, you won’t have to pay any Vehicle Excise Duty (car tax).
Mazda MX-30 vs rivals
Other electric SUVs similar in size to the MX-30 include the MG ZS EV and the Kia e-Niro. Compared to the Mazda, the MG and Kia are more practical and have a longer battery range. But the Mazda looks more distinctive, is more engaging to drive and its interior has a more premium feel.
