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.
The 2020 Kia Soul compact hatchback is proof of life among small, inexpensive cars.
Pros Good style that’s grown on us Fuel-efficient powertrains Low price, but not cheap Versatile interior Comfortable for adults
Cons Base Soul skimps on safety Top engine isn’t great No AWD Limited rearward vision
The 2020 Kia Soul ranked #1 in Subcompact SUVs. Currently the Kia Soul has a score of 8.4 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 18 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Large cargo capacity User-friendly tech features Comfortable, roomy seats
Cons Middling interior quality Rivals are more athletic
The 2020 Kia Soul comes with front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: continuously variable-speed automatic.The 2020 Kia Soul is totally redesigned.Restyled exterior and new base powertrain.Part of the third Soul generation introduced for 2020.
Pros Lots of features for the price Roomier than other subcompact crossovers Surprisingly fun to drive Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Cons Excessive wind and tire noise at freeway speeds Clunky response from turbocharged engine's transmission
