Driving report: Mazda MX-30 e-Skyactiv

In the past, the tank was considered to be a negligible size in conventionally powered cars, but the dimension of the battery is the most important value for electric cars. New electric cars entered a competition for battery size and range. Contrary to the trend towards ever larger batteries, Mazda has opted for a moderate format of 35,5 kWh, which the Japanese believe is more conducive to climate protection. Otherwise, the SUV Stromer, typically Mazda, does a few things differently than others.

Interior: cozy mode on the back seat

This applies, for example, to the optics. As is currently fashionable, Mazda also mixes SUV elements with a coupé-like roof profile. On the flank, the Stromer looks like a two-door, because there are no handles for the rear doors visible on the outside. Only when a front door is opened can the rear portals be opened from the inside - in the opposite direction to the direction of travel. Then the absence of the usual B-pillars, which are hidden in the doors, is also revealed. In view of this solution, you should expect a generous entry into the fund, but as an average adult you actually have to pull your head slightly to get there. In view of the moderate leg and headroom in the rear, the 4,40-meter-long MX-30 does not reach the usual level in terms of space. Behind the cozy back seat there is a 366 liter trunk that can be expanded to 1.171 liters.

In the first row, the space is flawless. In addition, the MX-30 presents itself tidy and chic at the front. Some look typical of Mazda, but not others. The free-floating and cork-lined center console belongs to the last category. There is a seven-inch touchscreen especially for operating the air conditioning system. Natural looking textiles with a soft feel on the seats and door linings create a living room ambience.

Motor: Electronic power pack

When looking into the engine compartment, the large emptiness around the 107 kW / 145 hp electric unit is impressive. It is not entirely by accident that there is even space for several engines: Mazda plans to offer the MX-2021 with a range extender as an alternative in 30. In this version, an additional Wankel engine can generate electricity if the battery does not suffice.

Like a combustion engine, the all-electric MX-30 is “started” with the power button. The drive initially remains silent, of course, but makes noises when driving that are not unlike a combustion engine. Here Mazda opted for a subtle e-sound that gives the driver a feeling of acceleration, but which is by no means pushy. Especially not for outsiders, since this sound is directed inwards. Thanks to 271 Newton meters of torque, progress can be made fairly quickly on request. It takes 9,7 seconds for the 100 km / h to drop. The 1,6-tonner can also be chased away around tight corners. Instead of understeering, it tends to slide over all four wheels. He appears good-natured and neutral, but not as agile as you are used to from other Mazda models with combustion engines. This also applies to the top speed: officially this is already regulated at 140 km / h, according to the speedometer the maximum speed was 146 km / h

Scores with low energy consumption

On fast passages, electricity consumption is also skyrocketing in almost frightening regions, at least in view of a WLTP range of 200 kilometers. Unlike many other new electric models, the MX-30 is not really suitable for long distances. Mazda calls the limited battery format of 35,5 kWh "Rightsizing". Among other things, it offers advantages in terms of weight, consumption and production costs.

Everyone has to find out for themselves whether the MX-30 with this middle ground is suitable for everyday use. In any case, the 200 km range is a practical value and is probably sufficient for most driving profiles. In practical driving, the E-Mazda was pleasantly reserved in terms of energy consumption. On a good 70-kilometer test lap - with parts of city traffic, country roads and freeways - the electricity consumption leveled off at 15 kilowatt hours per 100 kilometers with largely normal driving. At the end of the lap, the battery was still two-thirds full, which, according to the on-board computer, should last for another 144 kilometers. So 200+ kilometers with one tank of fuel shouldn't be a problem. In view of these practical values, the classification of the WLTP standard consumption, which was set at 19 kWh per 100 kilometers at a significantly higher level, is surprising.

The price for the MX-30, which can already be ordered and officially launched at the end of September, is also pleasingly low. First of all, customers have the choice between a basic version and a first edition with a price advantage. Starting in July, Mazda will reveal details of the entire line-up, which will then include additional equipment levels. With the VAT rate reduced to 16%, the price of the initially orderable base drops to around EUR 32.645. There are 18-inch wheels, automatic climate control, full-LED headlights, infotainment system with navigation, head-up display and many modern assistance systems on board. If you subtract the increased environmental bonus of around 9.500 euros, you have to pay just over 23.000 euros as a customer. For a comparable Mazda model with a combustion engine, a CX-30 with 110 kW / 150 PS petrol engine and automatic, the official list price is a good four and a half thousand euros higher. Thanks to lower energy costs, tax exemptions until 2030 and lower maintenance costs, Mazda's first electric car offers even more financial benefits. The first edition, which costs EUR 23.700 less minus the environmental bonus, also includes matrix lights, DAB radio, electric seats and seat heating.