Not only is the MX-30 an all-new model for Mazda, it marks the first time the Japanese automaker has experimented with an all-electric powertrain. It's similarly sized to the current CX-3 and the upcoming CX-30 crossovers, but borrows the MX nomenclature of the MX-5 Miata, giving us hope that it will be a performance-oriented option in the electric-SUV marketplace.
Another day, another electric vehicle. This time around it's from Mazda, and it blends all the hallmarks of a sporty city SUV with a fully-electric heart. The MX-30 debuts Mazda's pure-electric e-SkyActiv platform, along with a number of new interior technologies likely to filter through the rest of the Japanese brand's line-up in due course. The all-electric MX-30 is part of Mazda's plan to offer an e-SkyActiv (hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or fully-electric) vehicle in each of its model lines by 2030. That includes everything from the Mazda 2 through to the dual-cab BT-50 replacement.
Mazda could have played it safe with this one but it didn't. Instead, it went bold. Rugged, in fact. All the more impressive is the fact that the all-new 2021 Mazda MX-30 is the Japanese automaker's first-ever all-electric vehicle. Going bold is something GM, for example, never would have done. Just look at the Chevrolet Bolt. The new MX-30, by contrast, has unique styling inside and out that may not be to everyone's liking. Mazda has been repositioning itself over the past few years as a more premium brand overall, and the MX-30's slightly more rugged look is not what everyone expected. But it also serves as the ideal gateway model for the brand as it takes its first step towards all-out electrification. The question is whether the MX-30 can successfully challenge the likes of the popular Hyundai Kona Electric, Kia Niro EV, and even the upcoming BMW iX3.
The 2020 Volvo XC40 comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.Leather upholstery replaced by a cloth and faux-leather combo on base trim.More standard features for the R-Design and Inscription trims.
PROS Pleasing interior with premium materials Clever small-item storage and cargo solutions Plenty of standard and available safety features
CONS Steep learning curve for touchscreen interface Cargo area is small for the class
As with other 2020 Volvo models, all XC40s come standard with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Cloth seats replace the previously standard leather on the base Momentum model, though it remains available as an option; leather remains standard on the R-Design and Inscription models. The Momentum now features power child locks for the rear doors, an automatically dimming rearview mirror, and heated windshield wiper blades. A panoramic roof is standard on the R-Design. The ability to power fold the rear seats has evaporated from the XC40 lineup.
Pros Fun and funky styling, refined interior, technologically advanced features.
Cons Coarse engine sound, unexceptional fuel economy, slow-to-respond infotainment system.
The 2020 Volvo XC40 ranked #3 in Luxury Subcompact SUVs. Currently the Volvo XC40 has a score of 7.9 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 14 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Solid engine options Nice interior Roomy seating Long list of standard features
Cons Subpar cargo capacity Some tricky infotainment functions
