Production Years and Model Code
The Mazda MX-30 is a compact electric crossover first unveiled at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show. Serial production began in 2020, and the model remains current to this day. The model code is J59Y, corresponding to the Mazda CX-30 platform adapted for electric drive.
Body Type
The MX-30 features a five-door crossover body with hatchback elements. The design follows Mazda's "Kodo" style language, combining smooth lines with aggressive features. A distinctive characteristic is the rear-hinged rear doors (similar to the RX-8), improving cabin access.
Modifications
- Fully electric version (EV) – Equipped with a 143 hp (107 kW) electric motor and a 35.5 kWh battery. WLTP-rated range is approximately 200 km.
- Hybrid version with rotary engine (e-Skyactiv R-EV, 2023–present) – Uses a small rotary engine (830 cc) as a generator to charge the battery. The electric motor produces 168 hp, with a total range of up to 600 km (including battery charge and gasoline reserve).
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How to Remove the Front Bumper
- Open the hood.
- Under the hood, unscrew four bolts and remove five clips securing the radiator grille cover.
- From underneath, unscrew ten bolts and remove two clips (inserted from bottom to top) securing the left and right fender liners (lower part) and plastic trim.
- Manually pull the trim downward, unscrew two bolts underneath, and remove two clips.
- Turn the wheels alternately left and right.
- In the wheel arches, remove clips securing the front half of the fender extensions.
- Release the fender extensions from the bumper (held by internal pistons; grab the bottom and pull toward yourself).
- Under the extensions, remove three clips per side securing the liners and unscrew one bolt per side securing the corners to plastic brackets in the fenders.
- Release the clips in the fenders (pull the corners sharply toward yourself).
- With an assistant, remove the bumper by pulling it forward (carefully to avoid damaging wires).
- Disconnect electrical equipment connectors.
How to Remove the Rear Bumper
- Open the trunk.
- In the trunk opening, remove four caps and unscrew four bolts underneath.
- From underneath, remove five clips and unscrew four bolts (inserted from bottom to top).
- In the wheel arches, remove clips securing the fender liners.
- Release the fender extensions (held by internal pistons; gently pull toward yourself).
- Behind the extensions, unscrew one bolt per side and remove one clip per side.
- Release the sides from clips in the fenders (pull the corners toward yourself).
- With an assistant, remove the bumper by pulling it backward (watch for wires).
- Disconnect parking sensor and signaling device connectors (if equipped).
Model Description
The MX-30 is positioned as an eco-friendly urban vehicle. The interior uses recycled materials, including cork (on door panels) and fabrics made from recycled plastic.
Technical Features:
- Front-wheel drive.
- Top speed limited to 140 km/h (EV).
- 0-100 km/h acceleration in 9.7 seconds (EV).
- Regenerative braking with adjustable levels.
- The interface includes a 7-inch multimedia display and an 8.8-inch center screen. In Europe, the model received praise for handling but criticism for limited range (EV version).
Interesting Facts
- RX-8 Successor? – The MX-30 uses rear-hinged doors like the RX-8 sports coupe, despite being a crossover.
- Rotary Engine Returns – The R-EV hybrid became Mazda's first rotary-powered production car since the RX-8's discontinuation in 2012.
- Limited Availability – In Japan, the MX-30 was sold via subscription, while some markets (e.g., the U.S.) had restricted sales due to its modest range.
- Hydrogen Experiments – Mazda is testing an MX-30 fuel cell variant, though no production plans exist yet.
Conclusion
The Mazda MX-30 is a bold experiment combining eco-friendliness, unconventional design, and innovative tech. Despite compromises (like the EV's limited range), it remains an interesting choice for urban driving.