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 Encore GX, despite the familiar name, is an all-new model for Buick for 2020.Buick offers several attractive and comfortable crossovers, and the all-new Encore GX occupies the smaller end of that spectrum. The 2020 Buick Encore GX initially sounds as if it were a trim level that is offered on the subcompact Buick Encore, but it is actually its own, bigger model positioned below the compact Buick Envision. The Encore GX gives Buick another entry in the ever-popular crossover market, with its purposeful design and efficient packaging.
The Encore GX is an all-new crossover.It's larger than the standard Encore.Part of the first Encore GX generation introduced for 2020.
Pros Fuel-efficient engine choices Large cargo capacity for the class Plenty of standard and available safety features Accessible pricing
Cons Engine output is weak compared to many rivals
Positioned as an in-betweener for Buick's crossover lineup, the 2020 Encore GX is bigger than the subcompact Encore, but smaller than the midsize Envision. Pros Sharp, bold exterior styling Standard active safety equipment
Cons Consumer indifference to an undefined brand
