For 2019, the Mazda CX-3 receives a refresh that includes new exterior touches, a very slight increase in engine output, redesigned seats, and front and rear center armrests. Some features have also been shuffled between trim levels, and advanced safety features are available across the lineup.
Pros Attractive and comfortable interior Engaging driving experience Impressive fuel economy for a crossover Good selection of available driver aids and active safety features
Cons Suspension tuning may be too firm for some Cramped rear seat Below-average cargo space
The 2019 Mazda CX-3 fails to launch in the crossover-SUV space race.
Pros Great, simple exterior shape Good standard touchscreen Standard advanced safety features Competitive fuel economy
Cons Cramped rear seat Not much cargo room with seats up Finicky infotainment system Small safety demerit
the 2019 CX-3 retains its trapezoidal bar grille but has a new inner grille design. New lower chrome trim on the sides complements the carryover side-sill chrome slat, while the headlights carry on unchanged. The rear lights, however, see a new design that’s more similar to those in front, with a round eye accented by straight lines.Inside, Mazda replaced the prior cable-operated parking brake with an electronic unit with an automatic hold feature and incorporated it into the center console next to the rotary infotainment dial. That change opens up some real estate on the console, and the mode selector has been relocated behind the shifter’s PRND indicator, the previous gloss-black surround is gone, the cupholders are repositioned, and the armrest gets a comfier makeover.
Mazda says the front seats, which can be ordered with full leather on top trims for the first time, have been completely redesigned to be wider and more comfortable. The dashboard wears new faux-suede appliqués, the climate-control dials feature flashy red accents, and the rear seats have a new fold-down center armrest with cupholders. Together, these small changes add up to a tidier and classier look.
The Hellcat-powered Durango is all-new for 2021. However, the hugely powerful SUV is only scheduled for a single year of production. While the company pulled a similar move with the highly hyped and limited-edition Challenger SRT Demon, we hope strong sales and enthusiast interest will prolong this devilish Durango's life.
PROS A three-row SUV with 700-plus horses, as quick as a 797-hp Hellcat Challenger, surprisingly deft handling for its size.
CONS Precipitous price tag, miserable fuel economy, omnipresent supercharger whine can get annoying.
PROS Stupefying acceleration and speed Excellent infotainment system Theatrical exhaust sounds
CONS Novelty can wear off in day-to-day use Frightening fuel consumption Still feels outdated
Pros Large touchscreen tech interface is one of the best in class Strong V8s provide exceptional towing ability Real off-road capabilities with 4WD and low-range gearing
Cons Fuel economy is below average, especially with the V8s Many of the latest advanced driver safety features don't come standard Bigger and bulkier to drive than rival crossover SUVs
