Another plug-in hybrid joins the Mazda line-up – and the rotary engine returns! By John Challen.

WHAT IS IT? Small crossover  HOW MUCH? From £28,912.50 ECONOMY? 37.2mpg (combined) 282.5mpg (weighted combined) EMISSIONS: 21g/km

Mazda MX-30 R-EV

Most car manufacturers have been steadily going about their business transitioning their line-up to EV and preparing to leave the past behind, but the Mazda approach has been more restrained. It says it remains committed to the ICE because that is likely to be the dominant power source for many people for quite a few years yet, which makes a lot of sense.

However, the Japanese company has also been dipping its toes in the electric vehicle waters, with some success. Mazda’s first EV – the MX-30 – was admired for its innovation, styling and for daring to be different. By adding this, the plug-in hybrid ‘R-EV’ version of the car, the company is hoping to increase its appeal further by largely keeping the same winning formula while adding extra flexibility.

R-EV comes equipped with a 17.8kWh battery, enabling a theoretical electric driving range of 53 miles. Alongside the battery tech is an 830cc single-rotor petrol engine, using Mazda’s tried, tested and loved rotary technology. This unit acts as a generator to drive the electric motor for seamless EV driving and recharge it while on the move. Drivers of the MX-30 R-EV will have a choice of three drive modes: normal; EV and charge. Experimenting with the charge option saw the battery replenished at quite a rate, which will help drivers spend as much time as possible being battery-powered.

The MX-30 R-EV will be offered in three grades: Prime-Line; Exclusive-Line and Makato, with the predicted sales split in the UK expected to be 24%, 44% and 32%.

Prime-Line models are well-equipped inside with dual 7-inch driver screens and an 8.8-inch central display, an electronic parking brake and full connectivity options. Outside, the base model offers 18-inch wheels, radar cruise control and electrically adjustable, heated and powered folding door mirrors.

Move up to Exclusive-Line and there are upgraded wheels (still 18-inch), rear privacy glass and an auto-dimming driver door mirror. The mid-grade also offers powered driver’s door, head-up display and heated front seats. Meanwhile, the range-topping Makoto adds in a 360° monitor, adaptive LED headlights, a sunroof and upgraded 12-speaker stereo system. Makoto drivers also get extra safety systems, such as front cross traffic alert and smart braking.

The electric-only 53 miles wasn’t quite reached, although it wasn’t far off during our drive. Thankfully, as already mentioned, the rotary engine does a great job at adding back those miles as quickly as possible. Staying with the Mazda motor, it’s not exactly quiet, but the note has a charm about it, which is what a lot of people will be taken by.

On the whole, the MX-30 is a lovely place to be, with decent materials used and a good selection of touchscreens and buttons. The ride is very compliant and it is a great car around town and on A-roads, although once you get into the back seats through the innovative doors, there’s not a great deal of space – for heads or legs.

The Lowdown

Mazda MX-30 R-EV

Key fleet model: Exclusive-Line

Thumbs up: Ride and handling; interior;

Thumbs down: Rotary engine noise; rear space

Seven-word summary: Innovative ideas presented in a PHEV profile

Also consider: Ford Puma / Nissan Juke / Toyota C-HR