The Mazda MX-30 made its initial debut at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show. It?s a nice-looking crossover, and it has the genes of Mazda?s RX-8 rotary-powered sports car from the early 2000s. Have you seen those center-opening double rear doors, or what Mazda refers to as “freestyle doors"” Well, they are back with a vengeance for the MX-30.

Practicality issues aside, every new EV needs a party piece to grab attention. If the Tesla Model X can have falcon doors, the Mazda MX-30 can have suicide doors. And while Mazda has nailed the styling (as usual) of its all-new electric crossover, we have some issues with the MX-30.

2022 Mazda MX-30: EV or PHEV"

America is receiving two versions of the 2022 Mazda MX-30: EV and PHEV. The all-electric EV model will have a 35.5 kWh lithium-ion battery and a single electric motor turning the front wheels. The 144 horsepower and 200 lb-ft. of torque output seems modest on paper, but not until you learn that Hyundai?s Kona Electric has a 201-horsepower single electric motor and a larger 64.0 kWh battery pack.
The next version is an MX-30 PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle). It reportedly will have the same 35.5 kWh battery and front-mounted single electric motor as the EV model. The novelty part includes a standard gasoline-powered rotary engine under the hood, burning good ol? dinosaur juice to compliment the batteries. Mazda?s rotary engines are known for their silky-smooth power output and rev-happy demeanor....