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 X2 launched as a 2019 model and, this being only its sophomore year, BMW hasn't changed much for 2020. Last year's standard 6.5-inch infotainment display has been ditched in favor of the formerly optional 8.8-inch unit; navigation is now also standard across the X2 lineup. Otherwise, the X2 carries on essentially unchanged.
Pros Playful handling, chic exterior styling, economical at the pump.
Cons Too-harsh ride, interior design is plain, compromised cargo space.
The 2020 BMW X2 comes with all wheel drive, and front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.8.8-inch touchscreen now standard.Package content has been shuffled slightly.
Pros Unique styling differentiates the X2 from the more traditional X1 Materials quality and build quality are top-notch Quick acceleration and sporty handling
Cons Less rear headroom and cargo space than the X1 Ride is overly stiff for a luxury vehicle Grabby brakes make it hard to stop smoothly in traffic Disappointing smartphone integration
The 2020 BMW X2's #4 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Subcompact SUVs category. Currently the BMW X2 has a score of 7.7 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 22 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Athletic handling Zippy acceleration Intuitive tech features Quality interior
Cons Snug rear seats Above-average price for class
