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 Ford Explorer is fully redesigned for 2020.Part of the sixth Explorer generation introduced for 2020.The 2020 Ford Explorer comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 10-speed shiftable automatic.
Pros Increased passenger space and cargo room Rear-wheel-drive platform improves handling and towing Additional tech and driver assistance features
Cons Maximum seating capacity is seven, and most are equipped to seat six The price can get frighteningly expensive in a hurry Interior materials could be better in the higher trims Not enough USB ports
The 2020 Ford Explorer rediscovers its capable, outdoorsy side without becoming trucklike in any other respect.
Pros Great ride and handling Attractive profile, styling Soft, nicely detailed cabin Quiet interior
Cons Cramped third row Sluggish/drab infotainment Hybrid emphasizes capability, not mpg
The 2020 Ford Explorer ranked #18 in Midsize SUVs. Currently the Ford Explorer has a score of 7.4 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 11 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Impressive standard safety and tech features Broad, airy cabin Lots of cargo space Lineup of powerful, refined engines
Cons Bland interior in lower trims So-so upgraded infotainment system
