Electric vehicles aren’t coming: they’re here. Mazda’s first dip into the EV pool is, as you’d expect, a compact crossover. While this might not be as interesting as an all-electric Mazda MX-5 Miata, the MX-30 packs a ton of interesting features and an electric powertrain. Eventually, the Mazda MX-30 will be joined by a gasoline-burning, rotary-range-extender equipped variant, but the currently available MX-30 moves exclusively by way of a 35.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that feeds the electric motor that powers the front wheels. Mazda says this combination is good for 143 hp and 200 lb-ft of torque. The Mazda MX-30 also features reverse-opening rear doors, leatherette coverings on the seat and minimalist styling that’s similar to the rest of the Mazda lineup.

On this episode of Quick Spin, Wesley Wren hops behind the wheel of the Mazda MX-30 and puts it through its paces. Wren walks you around the Mazda MX-30 and shows off its interesting features before taking you along for a live drive review that highlights the vehicle’s dynamics. Expanding on these thoughts, Wren chats with Mark Vaughn. The pair talk about this Mazda’s range, its features and its position in the market. Closing the show, the two discuss what makes the Mazda MX-30 special.