Perhaps we need to stop calling these cars SUVs, because the new Mazda CX-30 is really just a Mazda 3 on stilts, and all the better for it.
Pros Excellent dynamics Interior fit and finish Audio and infotainment system Active safety features Exterior and interior design, practical, makes more sense than a Mazda 3
Cons Ride felt a tad firm (European spec) Expected price premium over the Mazda 3 Infotainment housing a little old school Fits four adults at best
Slotting into the Mazda SUV lineup in the narrow space between the subcompact CX-3 and the compact CX-5 is the new—and curiously named—CX-30. Why isn't it called CX-4? We asked Mazda: It's kind of a long story. Regardless, we like the way it looks. Mazda's designers gave it a more severely forward-canted rear window and chunkier black-plastic body cladding to help differentiate the 2020 Mazda CX-30 from its other crossover siblings.The 2020 CX-30 shares much of its mechanicals and platform with the all-new Mazda 3 sedan and hatchback, so we expect it to have a 186-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, a six-speed automatic transmission and either front- or all-wheel drive. It's possible that Mazda's new gasoline-powered compression-ignition engine—which the company calls Skyactiv-X—is likely to be available in the CX-30 at some point down the road.
Good car, the Mazda CX-30. Handles well, looks smart and has a lovely interior. But as is always the case with crossovers – the conventional car on which it’s based (in this case the Mazda3 hatchback) is the sensible buy.
Pros Good-looking, decent to drive, lovely interior.
Cons Cramped rear, old-fashioned auto.
In the Q3 Sportback, Audi introduces a racier version of its newest upcoming Q3 small SUV, and it's bound to attract plenty of admirers since it gives up very little in the way of space.
Pros Like a perfectly scaled-down Audi Q8 Great looks inside and out Premium cabin with new levels of detail and trim work Fun to drive (both engines) 45 TFSI feels like a proper hot hatch in the corners Good ride comfort with adaptive dampers Good safety and tech
Cons There's a big gap in performance between the 35–45 TFSI Expect a similar-size gap in prices, too
The Audi Q3 Sportback is a more stylish alternative to your average boxy SUV, although others are more fun to drive and have more room for passengers.
Pros Big boot Stylish looks Plenty of standard equipment
Cons Cramped back seats Alternatives are more fun to drive Automatic gearbox is a bit sluggish
The 2020 Audi Q3 blends practicality, quality, and fun in a chunky but city-friendly package.
Pros Lots of standard tech… Punchy turbo engine Hot hatchback handling Standard all-wheel drive
Cons …But best features cost a lot more Lackluster fuel economy Gets expensive fast
