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Might Mazda lastly crack the hot-hatch code that appears to have eluded it for years courtesy of its plug-in hybrid electrical car (PHEV) with rotary-engined range-extender (REx) know-how?
This isn’t as far fetched because it sounds, and it will not be that far-off both, as the corporate lastly ups the tempo on electrification throughout all future fashions, from the smallest and sportiest just like the next-generation MX-5 to the upcoming CX-90 PHEV full-sized SUV flagship.
Nevertheless, what would possibly actually seize patrons imaginations is the prospect of the subsequent Mazda3 reviving the MPS (Mazda Performance Series) hot-hatch concept, if not, identify. This might be a high-performance tackle the massively anticipated REx powertrain that’s heading for the MX-30 SUV someday subsequent 12 months.
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Proper now, there’s solely hypothesis a few Mazda3-based REx, however it’s clear that the powertrain can be a pure match for the upwardly cell small car transferring ahead, nicely as a characteristically distinctive tackle the hot-hatch theme for a model famend for searching for its personal path.
The REx’s potential as a Subaru WRX or Volkswagen Golf GTI weapon is compelling. All of the instantaneous torque of an electrical motor, paired with a modestly-sized (and massed) battery pack and charged up by a tiny but turbine-smooth rotary engine on the go or plugged right into a socket when parked, all whereas delivering good economic system. Mixed with a low centre of gravity and the powertrain elements evenly unfold throughout the platform, this set-up appears destined to supply driving thrills.
Provided that the quirky MX-30 crossover, presently supplied solely as a mild hybrid or EV, is about to be the primary REx, the structure is already in place for each the next-gen Mazda3 in addition to its closely-related CX-30 SUV sibling to observe swimsuit, if that’s the case desired.
All three fashions are presently constructed on variations of the corporate’s snappily-named New Small Automobile Structure that debuted within the current Mazda3 again in late 2018. We’re anticipating the approaching redesign (or substantial facelift) in 2024 to be an evolution of this {hardware}, because it was engineered to be future proofed for electrification from the start.
Patent filings uncovered final 12 months reveal a number of REx eventualities Mazda is considering, and throughout its total vary community it appears as nicely, with ‘e-SkyActiv R-Power’, ‘e-SkyActiv R-HEV’ and ‘e-SkyActiv R-EV’ branding. These are thought to cowl rotary-enhanced gentle, full and plug-in hybrid EV functions respectively.
Be aware, too, that though the MX-30 REx has been confirmed as an electrical energy generator that gained’t drive any of the wheels – the electrical motor will do this – different patent schematics appear to indicate all-wheel drive configurations, which means that there’s a lot we nonetheless have no idea about what might find yourself transpiring with the rotary. Will the latter be set as much as drive the wheels as nicely? Or will it merely service two (or extra) electrical motors?
Inevitably, such superior tech wouldn’t come low cost.
A Mazda3 MPS REx would play proper into the Hiroshima model’s premium aspirations, particularly within the C-segment, giving it a singular promoting proposition not solely in opposition to the Golf GTI (from $55,000 earlier than on-road prices) and co, but additionally electrified options such because the newly-released Cupra Leon VZe and even the Mercedes-Benz A250e PHEV, which kick off from round $60,000 and $70,000 respectively.
Mazda executives in North America have confirmed that the REx within the MX-30 PHEV EV considerably will increase vary because of the “close to silent” rotary engine solely powering up the battery pack within the background; US reviews have quoted figures of as much as 400km between recharges, or from the present MX-30 EV’s disappointing 200km to round 330km utilizing the real-world WLTP methodology.
After all, contemplating the burden variations between a present Mazda3 G20e M Hybrid and its equivalent-grade MX-30 G20e M Hybrid (1361kg versus 1481kg), vary in addition to efficiency, agility and effectivity would significantly favour the decrease, lighter and nimbler small automobile when considering any future REx functions.
What we’re saying is the Mazda3 seems to be tailor made for a REx hot-hatch software. It will additionally give the model the speaking level no rival may match within the fiercely-competitive GTI class.
Vitally, this is perhaps the important thing to unlock the door to success in an enviornment that’s confirmed to be so elusive for Mazda, actually for the reason that ‘80s and ‘90s heyday of the 323/Familia Turbo AWD.
Within the latter 2000s and early 2010s, over two memorable generations, the BK and BL Mazda3 MPS grades each possessed on paper what was required to indicate the likes of the Ford Focus ST/XR5 Turbo, Golf GTI and Renault Megane RS who was boss. Extra energy. Extra physique. Extra angle. Extra package.
However in actuality, regardless of delivering thrilling seems to be, efficiency and dealing with, they failed to achieve traction – each metaphorically with patrons, in addition to actually with the bitumen on account of bewildering torque steer. Plus, there was no auto choice to tackle the burgeoning dual-clutch transmission craze. One other hot-hatch clone, it was all seen and carried out earlier than, besides with added flaws.
Not a future MPS REx, although. This one would look to blaze trails in addition to burn rubber. Go on, Mazda, construct it.
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