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 Lexus UX 250h comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: continuously variable-speed automatic.Adds Android Auto and Google Assistant functionality.Reverse braking now included with blind-spot warning option.
Pros Fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain Improved performance over standard non-hybrid model Lots of standard and optional safety tech Maneuverable around town thanks to small dimensions
Cons Infotainment interface can be difficult to use Limited rear legroom Small rear cargo space with high liftover height
Lexus goes light on updates for the 2020 UX by only adding a couple new features. Its subscription-based Enform connected services now has a revised trial period. Likewise, a rear cross-traffic alert has been added to its blind-spot monitor.
Pros Enjoyable to drive, convincingly upscale interior, generous standard features.
Cons Unrefined engine noises, annoying infotainment touchpad, small cargo area.
The 2020 Lexus UX's #5 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Subcompact SUVs category. Currently the Lexus UX has a score of 7.6 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 23 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Terrific fuel economy Comfortable ride Good maneuverability
Cons Frustrating infotainment controls Lackluster engine Dull driving dynamics
