The anticipation for Mazda’s pre-production EV
concept is building up as we’re getting closer to the world debut today at the Tokyo Motor Show. While the automaker’s official teasers have been less revealing than
extreme cold weather clothing, we can now show you a clear photo of the MX-30
Concept, as the EV is curiously named.
The photo is taken from the cover of Japan’s Car Top
magazine that our reader Sean S. was kind enough to share with us. The image
reveals an intriguing crossover coupe body with tiny rear doors that will no
doubt remind Mazda enthusiasts about the RX-8 sports car.
As with the rotary engine-powered coupe, the rear
suicide doors feature no visible handles and likely require the front doors to
be open first in order to allow access inside. These barely visible rear doors
along with the sloping roofline towards the rear clearly entitle Mazda to call
the MX-30 Concept a coupe crossover.
Other interesting design cues include the grille
which is much slimmer than on Mazda’s latest models and has a recessed look
thanks to the bonnet that extends over it. The headlights are new too but not
that unfamiliar, while the generous body cladding reminds of the CX-30
crossover. We don’t get a look at the back but it’s pretty clear that the
taillights have a three-dimensional shape, as they extend out of the bodywork.
By the looks of it, the MX-30 Concept is pretty much
production ready. The production model will be built on a dedicated platform
featuring an electric motor delivering 141 HP and 265 Nm of torque, powered by a 35.5-kWh lithium-ion battery.
