Mazda has updated its quirky MX-30 electric hatchback, just over a year after the first examples arrived in the UK. Available to order now, the 2022 Mazda MX-30 features enhanced charging performance and power supply, plus improvements to the EV drivetrain sound. 

The biggest update is an increase in charging speed. However, those hoping for an increase that would put the MX-30 on a par with rivals will be disappointed to learn that the DC speed has increased from 40kW to just 50kW. Although Mazda claims that the rapid charge time (10-80%) has been reduced by 10 minutes, the MX-30 remains one of the slowest-charging electric cars currently on sale. As before, the 2022 model features a 35.5kWh battery pack that has a WLTP range of 124 miles (around 90 miles real-world). 

While most elements remain disappointingly similar to the launch spec, Mazda has worked to improve the MX-30s artificial noise system. For the 2022 update, the frequency has been further optimised to sound more aligned with other noises heard when the car is running, such as wind or road noise. Mazda claims that the tweaked system allows drivers to recognise the amount of power in a natural manner without the sound being unusual.

The 2022 Mazda MX-30 also gains new interior and exterior colour schemes and will come with three trim grades: Prime-Line, Exclusive-Line and Makoto. Standard equipment on all UK MX-30s includes LED headlights with daytime running lights, reversing camera, Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Intelligent Speed Assist, navigation and head-up display.

MX-30 cabin retains cork trim and gains an updated artificial sound generator

The updated range starts with the Prime-Line, which features 18-inch Silver alloy wheels, black door mirrors and a black grille. The Exclusive-Line features 18-inch Bright alloy wheels and sees an increase in standard equipment with the addition of power seats, lumbar support adjustment and smart keyless entry. There’s also the option to choose a three-tone design. Zircon Sand or Soul Red Crystal can be matched to a Brilliant Black roof and Black side panels, while customers opting for Jet Black can expect a Brilliant Black roof with Silver side panels. In addition, Ceramic White can be matched to a Brilliant Black roof with Dark Grey side panels.

The range-topping Makoto features three interior trim options – a light grey cloth interior trim with Stone artificial leather, or an optional dark grey and brown artificial leather interior, plus new for 2022, a dark grey interior with black artificial leather. This trim features a dark brown cork console and door grips.

Standard equipment on the Makoto includes a front wiper de-icer and a power and tilt sunroof, along with a heated steering wheel and 12-speaker Bose surround sound system.

Prices start at £28,550 for the Prime-Line model (inc Govt Grant) with the Exclusive-Line and Makoto costing £30,450 and £34,350 respectively. All models are available to order now.

As before, the 2022 model features a 35.5kWh battery pack that has a WLTP range of 124 miles