Mazda MX-30 will hit the US market with a rotary engine

KUALA LUMPUR: Mazda confirmed the returning of the iconic rotary engine through a video teaser back in October, to act as a range extender for its new all-electric crossover, the MX-30. Also, the Japanese automaker has already revealed its plans to release the rotary range extender in Europe in 2022, but now it opened the cards for the US market as well. 

As reported by The Detroit Bureau, Mazda’s North American operations boss, Jeff Guyton, confirmed that the MX-30 equipped with a rotary mill will be coming to North America. It would be coming in both plug-in hybrid and fully electric forms. 

During an interview with the RoadShow, a company spokesperson said, "Mazda is committed to continuing to innovate and delivering an engaging driving experience. With that in mind, we can confirm we will bring our first electric vehicle, the MX-30, to the US market.” Despite the confirmation, there is still no info about the timeline; however, the rumours of 2022 arrival are high.

Revealed at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show, the cute and spunky MX is a small crossover with five seats and nifty suicide doors that are reminiscent of the brand's latest rotary-powered sports car, the RX-8. In the EV form available in Europe, the SUV is equipped with a 144-horsepower electric motor sending power to the front wheels, paired with a small 35.5-kWh battery pack. On a single recharge, the battery provides a total driving range of around 130 miles, and using a 50-kW rapid charger, it can be charged from zero to 80% in 40 minutes.

Euro emission standards somehow justify the ongoing small battery pack and short-range in Europe, although a large pack is expected for the US market. Also, the rotary engine onboard would be increasing the range figure by a fair amount. Both all-wheel and front-wheel-drive versions will be available for the upcoming SUV.

The Mazda MX-30 will face off against the Hyundai Kona EV, Kia Niro EV, and Volvo XC40 Recharge in the US.

Also read: Mazda adds more power to 2021 CX-5 and CX-8