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PIMS 2024: Mazda presents the MX-30 R-EV

A rotary-engined PHEV that you can (soon) buy

The quirky MX-30 R-EV makes its debut at the Philippine International Motor Show. PHOTO BY SAM SURLA

The time is ripe for manufacturers to bring in more hybrid vehicles, thanks to the outright removal of import taxes.

With other brands introducing new electrified models left and right at this year’s Philippine International Motor Show, it was only right for Mazda Philippines to dip its toes in by previewing the MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV plug-in hybrid.

For those who want to own a rotary engine with the benefits of an EV, this is it. PHOTOS BY SAM SURLA

This hybrid vehicle’s claim to fame is its propulsion system—a single electric motor rated at 168hp and 260Nm, and paired with an 830cc single-rotor rotary engine.

This tiny engine won’t be powering the car. Instead, it will act as a generator to help top up the 17.8kWh lithium-ion battery that’s good for an all-electric range of 85km.

Combined with a 50L gas tank and the ability to charge and supply power via a Type 2 CCS port, one can squeeze up to 600km out of this car.

Unlike other Mazdas, it's a bit more unconventional in its styling. PHOTOS BY SAM SURLA

Size-wise, it’s similar to the CX-30, but with a more unique design compared to the rest of the crossover lineup. With a more squared-off shape, it has a smaller grille, suicide/coach rear doors, and a two-tone paint job.

It's a compact crossover similar in size to the CX-30. PHOTOS BY SAM SURLA

It’s a standard compact crossover that seats five and carries 350L of cargo with the rear seats up, and up to 1,171L with the seats folded.

It's not the most updated in terms of tech within the Mazda lineup, but the first to have a climate control touchscreen. PHOTOS BY SAM SURLA

The interior features a control stack and a dashboard layout similar to other modern Mazdas, like a seven-inch digital driver’s display, an 8.8-inch widescreen infotainment that is operated by a commander knob, and surprisingly, a seven-inch screen for the climate controls.

Lots of nods to its heritage here. PHOTOS BY SAM SURLA

An interesting bit is the usage of cork within the interior, which is a nod to the company’s origins as Toyo Kogyo, which produced the material itself before it started making vehicles.

For now, this is just a preview, so come drop by the Mazda booth at World Trade Center if you’re interested.



Sam Surla

Sam is the youngest member of our editorial team. And he is our managing editor (believe it or not). He specializes in photography and videography, but he also happens to like writing about cars a lot.



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