Not only is the MX-30 an all-new model for Mazda, it marks the first time the Japanese automaker has experimented with an all-electric powertrain. It's similarly sized to the current CX-3 and the upcoming CX-30 crossovers, but borrows the MX nomenclature of the MX-5 Miata, giving us hope that it will be a performance-oriented option in the electric-SUV marketplace.
Another day, another electric vehicle. This time around it's from Mazda, and it blends all the hallmarks of a sporty city SUV with a fully-electric heart. The MX-30 debuts Mazda's pure-electric e-SkyActiv platform, along with a number of new interior technologies likely to filter through the rest of the Japanese brand's line-up in due course. The all-electric MX-30 is part of Mazda's plan to offer an e-SkyActiv (hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or fully-electric) vehicle in each of its model lines by 2030. That includes everything from the Mazda 2 through to the dual-cab BT-50 replacement.
Mazda could have played it safe with this one but it didn't. Instead, it went bold. Rugged, in fact. All the more impressive is the fact that the all-new 2021 Mazda MX-30 is the Japanese automaker's first-ever all-electric vehicle. Going bold is something GM, for example, never would have done. Just look at the Chevrolet Bolt. The new MX-30, by contrast, has unique styling inside and out that may not be to everyone's liking. Mazda has been repositioning itself over the past few years as a more premium brand overall, and the MX-30's slightly more rugged look is not what everyone expected. But it also serves as the ideal gateway model for the brand as it takes its first step towards all-out electrification. The question is whether the MX-30 can successfully challenge the likes of the popular Hyundai Kona Electric, Kia Niro EV, and even the upcoming BMW iX3.
The official line is that the Mokka is a traditional SUV, with butch looks and the option of four-wheel drive, whereas the Crossland X is intended to be a more family-friendly choice. To that end, all versions are front-wheel drive, which means there isn’t a driveshaft to the rear that robs the interior of usable space. The Crossland X also has deeper side windows than the Mokka to help create an airier feel inside, and it has smaller wheels, which have the potential to improve space, ride comfort and fuel efficiency.
The Vauxhall Crossland X is practical and comfortable, but it’s let down by an underwhelming driving experience.
Pros Spacious and comfortable Eager 1.2-litre petrol engine Plenty of standard safety kit
Cons Is it a genuine SUV? Steering too sensitive Wind noise at speed
Crossland X is not at all, an off-roader and is aimed, quite simply, at two markets: one is the young family and the other is the older couple whose children have left home and who might want to downsize to a sensible, smaller, yet still practical vehicle.
Pros Sensible and practical family car A range of customisation options Large choice of engines
Cons Tough competition, but will come out fighting
