Electrifying new chapter
The All-Electric MX-30 is the ultimate expression of Mazda’s commitment to a sustainable future. It also carries the distinction of being the first mass-produced fully electric vehicle to carry the Mazda emblem. Having been impressed with the Mild Hybrid variant a few months back, I was itching to see just how the EV variant compares.
The All-Electric MX-30 retails for $74,990 plus ORC which includes a Wallbox Pulsar Plus Charger valued at $2000 for early adopters. This means the All-Electric is eligible for the Government’s Full Clean Car Rebate of $8625. Also, for every MX-30 sold, Mazda New Zealand will fund five native trees in conjunction with Trees That Count.
Power comes from an e-SKYACTIV 35.5kWh battery system producing 107kW and 271Nm of torque.
Drive is sent through the front wheels and Mazda claim energy consumption of 18.5kWh/100km. A full charge will also give you a snip over 220km in range.
The interior is nigh on identical to the Mild Hybrid, which means a variety of recycled materials are used including heritage cork for the centre console and breathing fabric for the upper door trim. It also sports recycled plastic fabric made from single use plastic bottles.
Details like the floating centre console and touchscreen for the climate controls only add to an essentially attractive and minimalist cockpit. Plus, all the switchgear feels so satisfying to touch and operate.
As the All-Electric is available only in flagship Takami grade, there are plenty of toys. These include Mazda’s i-ACTIVSENSE Active Safety Package, 18-inch alloys, sunroof, heated seats, heated steering wheel, Mazda’s 8.8-inch Connect Infotainment System, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and a delightful BOSE stereo system.
On the move, the All-Electric MX-30 feels planted and the soft dampers underneath make for a sumptuous ride. Slicing through dual carriageway traffic is almost telepathic thanks to Mazda’s Electric G-Vectoring Control.
Also, its lithium-ION batteries emit the faintest rumble on top of regular EV silent running, giving the MX-30 a character of its own. It also manages to be a very well sorted handler and things like torque steer and body roll are kept at a minimum.
All in all, much like the Mild Hybrid, the All-Electric MX-30 is a bold new chapter for the Hiroshima based brand and certainly worth checking out.
