Buckle up for the 2024 Mazda CX-30 R-EV Review and it’s got me buzzing with curiosity.
This hybrid’s got the soul of an electric car with a twist a rotary engine for extended trips.
Is it a quirky gem or a practical miss? Stay tuned, as we uncover the truth together.
Key Takeaways
- The 2024 Mazda CX-30 R-EV is a unique extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) powered by a rotary engine.
- It offers electric driving with no tailpipe emissions for up to 55 miles, plus a gasoline engine to extend its range up to 323 miles.
- Delivers a sporty and engaging driving experience thanks to its rotary engine and Mazda’s signature handling dynamics.
- Features a stylish and upscale interior with premium materials and advanced technology features.
- Offers a competitive price point compared to other luxury EVs.
Overview of the 2024 Mazda CX-30 R-EV
The CX-30 R-EV is a compact SUV that shares its platform and design with the gasoline-powered CX-30.
However, under the hood lies a revolutionary rotary engine, which Mazda has reintroduced after a brief hiatus.
This unique engine offers several advantages, including a smooth and powerful driving experience, compact size, and reduced emissions compared to traditional gasoline engines.
Key Specifications
- Powertrain: Rotary engine + electric motor (EREV)
- Battery capacity: 17.8 kWh
- Electric range: 55 miles
- Gasoline engine range: 268 miles
- Total range: 323 miles
- MPGe: 88 combined
- Horsepower: 148 hp (combined)
- Torque: 178 lb-ft (combined)
- Seating capacity: 5
- Cargo space: 20.3 cubic feet (behind rear seats)
- Starting MSRP: $34,150
Trims and Features
The CX-30 R-EV is available in two trims: Base and Premium. Both trims come standard with a comprehensive list of features, including:
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- LED headlights and taillights
- Heated front seats
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
- 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Bose® 12-speaker audio system
- Full suite of driver-assistance systems
The Premium trim adds:
- Sunroof
- Leather-trimmed seats
- Heated rear seats
- Head-up display
- Navigation system
Exterior and Interior Design
The CX-30 R-EV boasts a stylish and modern exterior design that is both sleek and sophisticated.
The interior is equally impressive, featuring high-quality materials, comfortable seating, and a spacious cabin.
The overall design language is driver-focused and creates a sense of premium quality.
Driving Experience
One of the most defining characteristics of the CX-30 R-EV is its revolutionary rotary engine.
This unique engine delivers a smooth and responsive driving experience that is unlike anything found in a traditional EV.
The electric motor provides instant torque for quick acceleration, while the gasoline engine seamlessly kicks in to extend the range when needed.
Electric vs Hybrid Mode
The CX-30 R-EV operates in two primary modes: electric and hybrid. In electric mode, the car uses its battery power to drive for up to 55 miles with zero tailpipe emissions.
This is perfect for daily commutes and errands.
When the battery level gets low, the gasoline engine kicks in and operates as a generator to power the electric motor and extend the range.
This hybrid mode allows the CX-30 R-EV to travel up to an impressive 323 miles on a single tank of gas.
Real-World Fuel Economy and Driving Range
The CX-3-R-EV achieves an impressive 88 MPGe combined. This translates to significantly lower fuel costs compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
The range of the 2024 Mazda CX-30 R-EV depends on whether you’re driving in electric mode or hybrid mode:
Electric Mode:
- Up to 55 miles on a full battery charge. This is sufficient for most daily commutes and errands.
Hybrid Mode:
- Up to 323 miles on a single tank of gas. This is thanks to the gasoline engine kicking in and operating as a generator to power the electric motor and extend the range when the battery level gets low.
So, the total range of the CX-30 R-EV can be up to 378 miles, combining the electric and hybrid modes.
However, it’s important to remember that the actual range will vary depending on driving conditions, such as weather, traffic, and how aggressively you accelerate and brake.
Interior Comfort and Technology
The interior of the CX-30 R-EV is designed to be both comfortable and sophisticated.
The cabin features high-quality materials like soft-touch plastics and leatherette upholstery, creating a premium feel.
The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long journeys.
Passenger and Cargo Space:
The CX-30 R-EV offers ample passenger space for up to five adults.
The rear seats are spacious enough for two adults or three children comfortably.
However, the sloping roofline may limit headroom for taller passengers.
Cargo space is respectable for a compact SUV, offering 20.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 43.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down.
Technology Features
The CX-30 R-EV comes standard with a comprehensive suite of technology features, including an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a Bose® 12-speaker audio system, and a navigation system (available on Premium trim).
The touchscreen is responsive and easy to use, and the infotainment system offers a variety of features, including Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio, and voice recognition.
Safety Features and Driver-Assistance Systems
The CX-30 R-EV comes standard with a full suite of driver-assistance systems, including:
- Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Lane departure warning
- Blind spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Adaptive cruise control
- High beam assist
These features help to keep you and your passengers safe on the road. The CX-30 R-EV has also received a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Cost of Ownership and Value
The 2024 Mazda CX-30 R-EV starts at an MSRP of $34,150 for the Base trim and $37,850 for the Premium trim. This is competitive compared to other luxury EVs, such as the Audi Q3 e-tron and the BMW X2 PHEV.
Additionally, the CX-30 R-EV qualifies for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500, which can further reduce the purchase price.
Fuel costs are significantly lower than those of traditional gasoline-powered vehicles, thanks to the CX-30 R-EV’s electric driving capabilities and impressive fuel efficiency.
Maintenance costs are also expected to be lower than those of gasoline-powered cars, as electric vehicles have fewer moving parts.
Warranty coverage is comprehensive, with a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.
Is the 2024 Mazda CX-30 R-EV Right for You?
The Mazda CX-30 R-EV is a unique and compelling option for eco-conscious drivers who want a sporty and engaging driving experience without sacrificing practicality.
Its combination of electric driving, extended range, and stylish design makes it a standout in the growing EV market.
If you’re looking for an EV that offers something different, the CX-30 R-EV is definitely worth considering.
Here are some additional factors to consider before making a decision:
- Your budget: The CX-30 R-EV is more expensive than some other EVs on the market, but it is eligible for a federal tax credit that can help offset the cost.
- Your driving needs: If you do a lot of long-distance driving, the CX-30 R-EV’s extended range will be a major advantage.
- Your charging options: You will need access to a charger at home or work in order to fully take advantage of the CX-30 R-EV’s electric driving capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How far can the CX-30 R-EV travel in electric mode?
A: The CX-30 R-EV has an electric range of up to 55 miles on a full charge. This is sufficient for most daily commutes and errands.
Q: What happens when the battery runs out?
A: When the battery level gets low, the gasoline engine kicks in and operates as a generator to power the electric motor and extend the range. This hybrid mode allows the CX-30 R-EV to travel up to 323 miles on a single tank of gas.
Q: How long does it take to charge the CX-30 R-EV?
A: The charging time will vary depending on the type of charger you use. Using a Level 2 charger, you can fully charge the battery in about 3 hours. With a Level 1 charger, it will take approximately 13 hours.
Q: Is the CX-30 R-EV eligible for any tax credits?
A: Yes, the CX-30 R-EV is eligible for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500. The actual amount of the credit you can receive will depend on your tax situation.
Q: How much does it cost to maintain the CX-30 R-EV?
A: Maintenance costs for the CX-30 R-EV are expected to be lower than those of traditional gasoline-powered vehicles, as electric vehicles have fewer moving parts. Mazda also offers a comprehensive warranty coverage, with a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.
Q: Is the CX-30 R-EV a good choice for families?
A: The CX-30 R-EV offers ample passenger space for up to five adults. However, the sloping roofline may limit headroom for taller passengers in the rear seats. The cargo space is also respectable for a compact SUV, offering 20.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 43.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down. Ultimately, whether the CX-30 R-EV is a good choice for your family will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Q: How does the CX-30 R-EV compare to other EVs on the market?
A: The CX-30 R-EV stands out from other EVs with its unique rotary engine technology and extended-range capabilities. It also offers a sporty and engaging driving experience, thanks to its Mazda’s signature handling dynamics. However, it is important to compare the CX-30 R-EV to other EVs in its price range and consider factors such as range, features, and cargo space before making a decision.
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