Mazda MX-30 Concept Leaked: a CX-30 EV With Suicide Doors

We saw this photo about three days ago on the French website Worldscoop. But since Japanese magazines like to print out shiny renderings of their own making, we didn't think much of it. However, the chances it doesn't make sense to publish a render at the same time as an official unveiling. Plus, that little blue notch at the bottom-right of the photo is the real 2020 Honda Jazz/Fit, also leaked today.

That's not the end of controversy, though, as "MX-30" is a name that could offend purists. How dare they use the same initials as on everybody's favorite roadster? Except in the 1990s Mazda sold a tiny MX-3 and a pretty long MX-6, both of which were awkwardly-shaped coupes. So it wouldn't be the first time they tried to cash-in on the Miata's popularity.

Development of the Mazda EV was done under the e-TPV, and if you remember, that prototype was just a CX-30 body shell on top of a battery. While the MX-30 will clearly have a completely different skin that's relevant for an eco-friendly vehicle, the two cars are clearly brothers.

The suicide doors didn't work for the BMW i3, but no Mazda fan will pass the opportunity to mention how unique the RX-8 was because of this setup.

The powertrain has already been revealed by Mazda. It's a single motor at the front making 105 kW or about 140 horsepower, plus a strong 265 Nm (195 lb-ft) of torque. The battery is pretty disappointing. At 35.5 kWh, it's not going to take over the EV market. But it's right between the base versions of the Hyundai Ioniq and Nissan Leaf, so it's actually not bad.

The MX-30 looks fresh, and Mazda makes some of the best interiors outside of the premium class. So we're willing to look past the name and give this crossover EV a chance.