2023 Mazda MX-30 rotary plug-in hybrid to be unveiled this week

UPDATE: 2023 Mazda MX-30 R-EV plug-in hybrid revealed

The 2023 Mazda MX-30 R-EV plug-in hybrid has debuted at the Brussels Motor Show.

For everything you need to know about the rotary-powered series hybrid, click on the read-more link below:

After years of waiting, the rotary-powered 2023 Mazda MX-30 plug-in hybrid will finally debut later this week.

Mazda will unveil the range-extending version of the electrified small SUV at the Brussels Motor Show on Friday, January 13, at 8pm AEDT.

“Faithful to its multi-solution approach to the global challenges of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, Mazda will introduce a new powertrain option for its MX-30 at the Brussels Motor Show 2023,” said Mazda Europe.

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“Available on the European market from the spring [March to June] this year the unique plug-in hybrid powertrain of Mazda’s compact crossover will feature an electric generator powered by a newly-developed rotary engine.”

The brand also confirmed badging for the new model – a triangular motif with rounded edges, similar to a rotor within a Wankel design, identical to trademark filings from mid-2021.

It was complemented by other trademark filings, which include ‘e-SKYACTIV R-HEV’, ‘e-SKYACTIV R-EV’, and ‘e-SKYACTIV R-Energy’.

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It will be similar to the BMW i3 REx range extender, which featured an identical battery pack and a 125kW electric motor, but added a two-cylinder motorcycle engine and a nine-litre fuel tank, for a 320-kilometre driving range.

The current all-electric Mazda MX-30 – priced from $65,490 before on-road costs – has a 35.5kWh lithium-ion battery pack, a 107kW/271Nm front-mounted electric motor, and a 224-kilometre driving range.

We can expect the range-extending MX-30 to reach closer to a 400-kilometre driving range to better compete against its rivals – including the Hyundai Kona Electric, Kia Niro, BYD Atto 3 and MG 4.

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While Mazda Australia has yet to officially confirm if the MX-30 plug-in hybrid will reach local shores, it could be sold here in limited numbers – similar to the all-electric version.

“MX-30 range extender is coming out… and we’re still in line for that car,” said Mazda Australia’s marketing director, Alastair Doak, last year.

“It’s a unique proposition around the world. There’s some interesting thinking behind that car that can be used in other applications down the track.”