What it’s Like to Drive the 2022 Mazda MX-30

Mazda’s 2022 MX-30 is the latest electric vehicle to hit the streets. The all-electric crossover SUV first became available in the state of California, but it will soon be released throughout the country. After teasing the bold EV, Mazda fans can finally get their hands on the aesthetic SUV. With a new powertrain and Mazda’s unique SkyActiv architecture, the MX-30 is an engaging and fun-to-drive vehicle. As automakers move toward electric vehicles for the benefit of the climate, many automakers have been working meticulously to provide electric vehicles that consumers enjoy. Mazda has been working to bring consumers an EV that sparks interest and compels fans to stick around. In the next decade, Mazda plans to build 12 other electric and hybrid vehicles, so it’s important that Mazda knows what works and what doesn’t. The 2022 Mazda MX-30 is a splendid vehicle, though it does come with its own set of issues. The hope is that Mazda will work these out in the future, but for now, let’s take a look at what it’s like to drive the fully-electric crossover. 

Driving the 2022 Mazda MX-30

The 2022 Mazda MX-30 shares the same platform as the Mazda 3 and the CX-30. The electric crossover SUV has a similar length, wheelbase, and suspension. The design is where things become more unique to the MX-30. Mazda is known for its design so it’s not a surprise the MX-30 looks clean and sleek with its coupe-like roofline, rear half-doors, and square-nosed small grille. It’s not only on the outside either, stylish upholstery provides a luxury feel with high-quality materials lining the interior. A sleek and minimalist design also gives a more modern feel inside the crossover. 

As for driving the MX-30, the crossover makes use of a single electric motor capable of 143 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. This gives power to the front wheels with a single-speed transmission. A 35.5-kilowatt battery pack supplies the crossover with 100 miles of range. This is where things become a little funky. 100 miles of range is disappointing given the overall capability of the MX-30. Compared to other EVs, the range becomes even more so as the MX-30 is priced at $33,470 (plus destination fee). This comes down a bit with the electric vehicle tax credit, but still. About this range issue, Mazda has stated that it can’t add additional capacity without compromising the battery or interior space. Mazda has stated that a plug-in hybrid version of the MX-30 is in the works, which would improve the range, but for now, the Japanese automaker provides several alternatives. One of these is a $500 credit from ChargePoint that can be used to buy any Level 2 home charger. Another option is that Mazda includes 3 years of their Mazda MX-30 Elite Access Loan Program. This program lets MX-30 owners borrow any other Mazda model for up to 10 days each year for longer trips. These alternatives help, but the hybrid MX-30 with a rotary engine would do wonders. That won’t be available until 2022 however. 

Overall Impression of the MX-30

The 2022 Mazda MX-30 drivers well. Since it shares underpinnings with the Mazda 3 and CX-30, the electric crossover drives similarly. The crossover weighs about 400 pounds more than a CX-30, but weight is distributed 40% at the front and 60% at the rear. The chassis is stiff, the body roll is mild, and the ride is firm. The crossover drives smoothly and the steering is absolutely responsive and precise. Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control has been repurposed for the electric MX-30 so the crossover has a great braking response. Acceleration is actually improved a bit on corner exits. When driving the MX-30, the throttle and power feel like a normal internal combustion car. Power is stretched out so that the acceleration feels gradual. Feedback is a little lackluster when braking as the MX-30 makes use of regenerative and physical braking. It’s still firm and consistent but it doesn’t feel as natural.

Mazda wanted to make the MX-30 feel natural. To do this Mazda installed a light hum inside the cabin. It sounds like an electric whir mixed with the grumble of a combustion engine. The sound is effective when changing speed as it sounds like a regular engine. The only negative is that the sound remains when cruising on the highway. It isn’t too loud but it can be annoying. Overall, the MX-30 is a versatile and engaging vehicle. It looks gorgeous both outside and in, and it feels luxurious to ride in. The biggest problem is the range but Mazda is working to fix this. For Mazda fans, the 2022 MX-30 will be a vehicle to try out. When the hybrid version releases, this will definitely be a vehicle to purchase. Of course, if the range isn’t too much of a concern, then the electric crossover becomes a great buy.

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Photo Credit: Mazda