For 2018, low-speed automatic emergency braking is standard across the CX-3 lineup. Mazda says it has revised the CX-3's suspension to improve handling and ride quality and added more sound-reducing materials to make the CX-3 quieter. Small changes have been made to feature availability.
PROS Attractive and comfortable interior Engaging driving experience Impressive fuel economy for a crossover Good selection of available driver aids and active safety features
CONS Suspension tuning may be too firm for some Tight rear seat Below-average cargo space
The 2018 Mazda CX-3 ranked #2 in Subcompact SUVs. Currently the Mazda CX-3 has a score of 8.3 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 32 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Sporty handling Great gas mileage Upmarket interior
Cons Limited cargo room Small back seat Below-average predicted reliability rating
One spirited drive behind the wheel of the CX-3 will have even the keenest driving enthusiasts singing its praises. We’ve come to expect playful driving dynamics, eager powertrains, and driver-focused interiors from Mazda—it’s the zoom-zoom brand, after all—and this subcompact crossover doesn’t disappoint. Once its practicality is under the microscope, however, the CX-3’s shine starts to fade. It’s small. Shoppers who prioritize cargo space and room for passengers would be better served by many of the CX-3’s rivals, or even a Mazda 3 hatchback. Even so, the CX-3 is on our short list of great crossovers, even if it’s solely for its corner-carving expertise and its fun-loving character.
Pros Sweetest-driving mini crossover around, class-leading fuel economy, eye-catching style.
Cons Cramped rear seat, limited cargo capacity, dawdling infotainment responses.
The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is old, crude, slow, and far from fuel-efficient, though it is cheap; buyers can likely do better.
Pros Low price Passably attractive lines Loading people, goods is easy So about that price…
Cons Grim interior Crude, slow powertrains Low fuel-economy ratings Active-safety gear missing from most trims
For 2018, the Mitsubishi Outlander receives updated styling front and rear, minor interior enhancements, and changes said to reduce cabin noise. There are new features this year as well. Every Outlander Sport now has a touchscreen display, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration is included on most trim levels.
PROS Well-equipped for the price Generous warranty coverage surpasses that of many rivals
CONS Raucous drone while accelerating (especially with 2.0-liter engine) Transmission is aggravating due to slow responses Many interior materials look and feel cheap Ride quality is jarring on bumpy roads
The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport ranked #14 in Subcompact SUVs. Currently the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has a score of 6.5 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 65 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Above-average cargo room Long warranty
Cons Underwhelming powertrains Numb steering Dated cabin design Subpar fuel economy
