Waves background
Appears in 2 categories

Discover the Plug-In Hybrid of the Year at Hendy Mazda

Discover the Plug-In Hybrid of the Year at Hendy Mazda
3 min read Published 8 Feb 24

Is 2024 the year you move to a plug-in hybrid powertrain? There’s no better way to power up than with the Mazda MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV, which we’re delighted to announce has been named the Plug-In Hybrid of the Year at the 2024 What Car? Awards!

At Hendy Mazda, we couldn't be prouder to offer our customers a vehicle that not only provides a seamless electric drive experience but also leads the way in eco-friendly mobility. Here, our team dives deeper into this exciting model. If you like what you see and want to book a test drive in the Mazda MX-30, contact your local Hendy Mazda today.

A new era

The Mazda MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV plug-in hybrid marked an exciting new chapter for the MX-30 nameplate. It joined its all-electric stablemate in autumn 2023, in order to cater to a wider audience.

All MX-30 models boast engaging handling and a first-class cabin, which sports an elegant, premium design. The PHEV model drew specific praise from the What Car? judges for its fun handling, user-friendly infotainment system and cost-effective powertrain – helping it stand out from the competition.

Commenting on the award, Jeremy Thomson, Managing Director at Mazda Motors UK, said: “The plug-in hybrid market is huge and with so many PHEVs launching in the last 12 months to be tested by What Car?, it’s fantastic that the MX-30 R-EV has come out on top.” Indeed, the MX-30 triumphed over rivals, the BMW X5 and Mercedes GLC.

What Car? Editor, Steve Huntingford, said:

“The Mazda MX-30 R-EV combines fun handling with a well-controlled ride, while its classy and distinctive interior features one of the most user-friendly infotainment systems around. In the real world, we also found the MX-30 R-EV to be much more sparing on petrol than its larger PHEV rivals. And unlike them, it doesn’t just make financial sense as a company car – it’s also a very cost-effective private purchase.”

Power and precision

Equipped with a robust 17.8kWh battery, the MX-30 R-EV boasts an impressive 53-mile pure electric range. Mazda’s cutting-edge technology comes to the forefront with the introduction of the all-new 830cc single-rotor petrol engine, functioning as a generator to alleviate any concerns related to range or charging anxiety during longer drives.

But what really sets the MX-30 R-EV apart is Mazda’s innovative approach: the rotary engine operates solely as a generator, ensuring no direct mechanical connection to the wheels. This unique design guarantees that the electric motor consistently powers the vehicle, delivering a seamless EV driving experience.

The combination of the battery and 50-litre fuel tank creates a unique series plug-in hybrid with a flexible total range of over 400 miles, with a WLTP CO2 output of just 21g/km. Boasting a robust 125kW/170PS output, the PHEV achieves slightly superior acceleration performance compared to its 145PS fully electric sibling.

What’s more, it offers three distinctive drive modes – Normal, EV, and Charge – to adapt to various driving scenarios.

Unplug and play

Activate the EV mode when you want an extended electric drive experience, ensuring the vehicle relies solely on electric power until the battery is fully completely drained.

And, when it comes to charging, the Mazda MX-30 R-EV offers versatile options, supporting both AC and rapid DC charging. With three-phase AC charging, the process takes approximately 50 minutes, while the DC rapid charging option allows for a quicker recharge, completing in around 25 minutes, providing customers with optimal flexibility.

Commenting further on the award success, Thomson said:

“This car is a great example of Mazda’s challenger spirit, as thanks to its unique technological approach, it’s a car that’s the perfect solution for customers who want an electric car for everyday usage but the flexibility to undertake longer journeys without the reliance on charging infrastructure.”

Choose your grade

The Mazda e-Skyactiv R-EV is offered in Prime-Line, Exclusive-Line and Makoto grades. All versions feature a rotor badge on the front wings and an e-Skyactiv R-EV badge on the tailgate, while unique wheels differentiate the R-EV from the EV.

Find out more

As Mazda car dealers dedicated to providing our South Coast customers with the best in automotive excellence, this recognition further motivates us to continue offering vehicles that redefine the driving experience.

We invite you to visit your local Hendy Mazda to experience first-hand the award-winning Mazda MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV. And don’t miss our new and used Mazda offers, servicing deals and accessories.