2022 MAZDA MX-30 EV - POV FIRST IMPRESSIONS

EV Channels Review

The 2022 Mazda MX-30 marks Mazda's entry into the US EV market, offering a unique design with its "freestyle doors" reminiscent of the RX-8. The interior emphasizes sustainability, utilizing recycled materials like t-shirts and plastic bottles, and features distinctive cork accents as a nod to Mazda's history. While the cabin is airy and comfortable for the driver, the rear seating is cramped. The driving experience is described as smooth and engaging, with a sporty feel typical of Mazda, though the 143 hp and 200 lb-ft of torque are modest. The standout feature is the adjustable regenerative braking via paddle shifters, allowing customization of the one-pedal driving experience. However, the most significant drawback is the limited 100-mile range, which the reviewer found to induce considerable "range anxiety" during testing, especially when compared to competitors with 300+ miles. Mazda targets this vehicle towards urban commuters with shorter daily drives. The reviewer notes the car is only available in front-wheel drive and is being produced in a limited trial run of 560 units for the first model year. Despite the range limitations, the interior quality and design are praised over rivals like the Tesla Model 3 and Nissan Leaf.