The 2017 Mazda CX-3 ranks 2 out of 12 Subcompact SUVs. The Mazda CX-3 is bursting with fun, featuring best-in-class performance and sporty handling that more resembles a car than an SUV. It has a comparatively low base price, yet the interior is marked by impressive materials and a handsome design. The CX-3 comes up short on rear passenger room and cargo space, however, which detracts from its convenience.
Pros Excellent athletic handling Class-leading fuel economy Impressive interior design Outstanding crash test results
Cons Cramped rear seat Small cargo area
Many compact crossover SUVs aren't so "compact" anymore. But the petite 2017 Mazda CX-3 might be just what you're after. It's stylish, easy to park and fun to drive. If interior space isn't a priority, this could be your ideal crossover.For 2017, the CX-3 carries over unchanged.
Pros Excellent fuel economy Sporty handling helps you have fun behind the wheel Impressively quiet at highway speeds Front seats are very comfortable and supportive Attractive, high-quality interior with appealing features.
Cons Snug rear seat and humble cargo capacity limit the CX-3's versatility.
The 2017 Mazda CX-3 keeps the most attractive features from last year: its price and its handling.Looks only tell half of the 2017 Mazda CX-3's story: The body cladding and badging on the CX-3 point toward a soft-roader based on the fun-to-drive Mazda 3, but there's more to its tale.The CX-3 earned a 7.2 overall rating on our scale, which is fairly high for the budget hatchback. We like its fuel economy and features, but it has room to improve on features and overall comfort.
Pros Ample features and good value Available all-wheel-drive system Good handling and impressive performance for segment Easy to learn infotainment
Cons No manual, paddle shifters only on top models Not a lot of rear seat room Monochrome gauges look cheap Head-up display is nice, but not very useful
For 2017, the standard Sync 3 touchscreen infotainment system gains Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone interfaces. A power liftgate and an automatic brake hold feature are also added to the already ample standard features list.
Pros More standard features than many of its competitors Heavily insulated cabin remains quiet at all times Order the optional adjustable suspension for an especially supple ride.
Cons Less room in the backseat and cargo area compared to many competitors Slower than average acceleration from either of its available engines Some interior materials look cheap considering the price point.
The 2017 Lincoln MKC ranks 8 out of 14 Luxury Compact SUVs. If you're looking for a luxury SUV with a comfortable, relaxed ride and an upscale, feature-laden interior, the 2017 Lincoln MKC could meet your needs. However, if you can stretch your budget a bit more you can get an SUV with better performance and more cargo and passenger space.
Pros Hushed cabin Cushioned ride Generous list of standard features
Cons Little rear-seat legroom Mediocre cargo room Noticeable turbo lag from base and upgraded engines
The 2017 MKC is a step in the right direction for Lincoln, thanks to controlled handling and interior luxury, but it lacks rear seat space and the cachet of its luxury rivals.
Pros Strong turbocharged engines Responsive steering, handling Nicely detailed cabin Real. Radio. Knobs. Leather and wood (from Scotland, no less)
Cons Tight back seat EcoBoost engines aren't always 'eco' Transmission doesn't always match engine's urgency The anonymity of Lincoln today
