Modern cars usually get a new model every five to seven years. Replace it with a similar nameplate that is better. Even though the excellent CX-50 may replace it, the 2017 Mazda CX-5 is still being built. The weird and puzzling MX-30’s younger sibling lasted only the third model year. Mazda will stop making MX-30s in 2023. Numbers show why the MX-30 was discontinued. 16 MX-30s were sold in June 2023, down 30.4% from the still terrifying 23 sold the year before. Only 66 MX-30s were sold from January to June this year, compared to 316 in 2022. These are rounding errors in standard automobiles. Mazda sold 866 MX-5 Miatas in June, a small number. MX-30 market failure. It may be apparent. The MX-30’s 35.5 kWh battery provides an EPA-estimated 100-mile range. Mazda’s arguments are familiar: Compact batteries use scarce raw materials better. Most U.S. journeys are short. A lighter, easier-to-control car is more lightweight. Written, this is true. Realistically, 100 miles is daunting. The MX-30 should be close to a fast-charging site in inclement weather or hills. Even that fast charger would take a long time. We charged the MX-30 from 10 to 80% in over an hour on a 50 kW charger at 36 kW, which Mazda claims takes 36 minutes. Have you liked what? The MX-30 is stylish inside and out—excellent Mazda-like handling. The device’s limited capabilities outweigh its affordable price. The Ioniq 5 AWD’s sheer power is appealing. The MX-30 takes 8.3 seconds to reach 60 mph and feels slow. Given the MX-30’s tepid ratings and limited range, we worried that Mazda had researched enough to ensure its success in this market. Buyers disliked the MX-30’s epitaph. Mazda will sell us CX-90 and CX-70 PHEVs until their upcoming EV suits our market.
