Mazda fans have been pining a rotary engine since the RX-8’s demise in 2012. The rotary mill has been the subject of numerous discussions over the years, some of which were sparked by the Japanese company, but as of yet, no such lump has been in the works.
You might be surprised that Mazda recently confirmed the rotary engine’s comeback, as per Auto Evolution. Although the information is as authentic as they come, the model that will feature the powertrain is by no means intriguing. See, they gave it to the MX-30 while enthusiasts waited for the company to use it on a new RX car.
Mazda’s plans with MX-30
The subcompact crossover, which will share some components with the Mazda3 and CX-30, “will feature an electric generator powered by a newly-developed rotary engine,” according to the manufacturer. Starting this spring, it will be a plug-in hybrid vehicle with a “unique” powertrain targeted at the European market. Mazda will release the pricing and additional details later.
But on January 13 at 10:00 CET, the new powertrain choice will be displayed on the MX-30 at the 2023 Brussels Motor Show in Belgium (4:00 a.m. EST). The most crucial information should be revealed at the end of the week when the car debuts at the event held on the right side of the pond because official data will accompany the press conference.
MX-30: Pricing and performance
The manufacturer suggested retail price for the MX-30 in the US is $33,470. It is only offered in California and has two trim levels, the EV and Premium Plus.
Both have a small 35.5 kWh battery and a motor that produces 143 hp (145 ps / 107 kW) and 200 lb-ft (271 Nm). It takes 13 hours, 40 minutes, 2 hours, and 50 minutes to recharge it at 120V and 240V and only 36 minutes at a DC connection. It only has a 100-mile maximum driving range once fully charged (161 km).
Mazda’s other offerings
The CX-30, CX-5, CX-50, and CX-9 are other members of Mazda’s crossover family besides the MX-30. The MSRP of the smallest and most affordable model is $22,950. Prices for the CX-5 start at $26,700, the CX-50 at $27,550, and the CX-9 at $38,750. The CX-90, listed as a 2024 model with the phrase “coming soon” on the official website, will complete their line of high-riding vehicles. The starting price for the Mazda3 Sedan and Hatchback is $22,550, and the starting price for the MX-5 Miata and MX-5 Miata RF roadsters is, respectively, $28,050 and $35,750.
