Here it is: the return of the rotary engine, now in the Mazda MX-30

Mazda is officially bringing the rotary engine back with this new MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV. Not exactly the catchiest name, we think you’ll agree. Oh, and you can stop dreaming of RX-7s and the glorious 787B right away, because this is essentially a plug-in hybrid version of the MX-30 EV and the 830cc single-rotor engine that’s tucked away under the bonnet is only there to charge the battery. It has no mechanical connection to the wheels. Boo.

Still, this is Mazda recognising that range anxiety is still a major issue for many who are thinking about going electric. Although it certainly would be if you were thinking about buying the MX-30 EV, because its real-world range of around 100 miles is pretty poor. 

This hybridised version will solve all of those worries, though. As mentioned above, it uses a series hybrid setup, so the 73bhp rotary engine is there to feed the 17.8kWh battery when it’s running low on juice or when you’re accelerating with some extra vigour. On its own that battery can provide a handy 53 miles of all-electric range when fully charged, or with the help of the petrol-powered generator and a 50-litre fuel tank you’ll manage over 400 miles before you need to stop and top-up either one of your reserves. 

The electric motor that always drives the front wheels makes 168bhp and 192lb ft of torque, making this R-EV ever-so-slightly quicker than the full EV too. The 0-62mph time of 9.1 seconds in the range extender plays 9.7 seconds in the EV. Top speed in both is just 87mph, though. 

Mazda says it went for the rotary engine because it’s more compact than an equivalent reciprocating engine, meaning there’s no noticeable impact on cabin space. You still get the funky RX-8-style rear-hinged doors too, and Mazda’s interior designers are still at the very top of the game. From the exterior, pretty much all that’ll give you away as a PHEV buyer is the badging and the hybrid-specific 18-inch wheels. 

Orders for the R-EV are open now, and Mazda is celebrating the return of the rotary with a special ‘Edition R’ trim level. Just 400 of those will come to the UK and all will feature Jet Black paint with Maroon Rouge side pillars and a black roof. That’ll set you back a hefty £37,950, but in its standard trims the plug-in hybrid will kick off at £31,250 – exactly the same price as a base-spec MX-30 EV.

So come on then, Internet – which version would you go for?