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.
Remains one of the best all-round, reasonably priced EVs you can buy today.
Pros Excellent, efficient powertrain. 64kWh version provides big range
Cons Should be more spacious. Material quality could be better
Pros Great electric range Good fun to drive Generous equipment
Cons Other EVs have nicer interiors Boot is a bit small Quickest charging difficult to achieve
The 64kWh version of the Hyundai Kona Electric has a fantastic real-world range between charges, plus it’s quick and well-equipped. However, excellent rivals including the Kia e-Niro and Volkswagen ID.3 are better all-rounders thanks to their superior ride comfort and more practical interiors.
Pros Near 260-mile range in real-world conditions (64kWh battery) Strong acceleration Even the base model is well equipped
Cons Choppy ride Not as roomy as rivals Interior could be classier
