For 2019, the Mazda CX-3 receives a refresh that includes new exterior touches, a very slight increase in engine output, redesigned seats, and front and rear center armrests. Some features have also been shuffled between trim levels, and advanced safety features are available across the lineup.
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 Cramped rear seat Below-average cargo space
The 2019 Mazda CX-3 fails to launch in the crossover-SUV space race.
Pros Great, simple exterior shape Good standard touchscreen Standard advanced safety features Competitive fuel economy
Cons Cramped rear seat Not much cargo room with seats up Finicky infotainment system Small safety demerit
the 2019 CX-3 retains its trapezoidal bar grille but has a new inner grille design. New lower chrome trim on the sides complements the carryover side-sill chrome slat, while the headlights carry on unchanged. The rear lights, however, see a new design that’s more similar to those in front, with a round eye accented by straight lines.Inside, Mazda replaced the prior cable-operated parking brake with an electronic unit with an automatic hold feature and incorporated it into the center console next to the rotary infotainment dial. That change opens up some real estate on the console, and the mode selector has been relocated behind the shifter’s PRND indicator, the previous gloss-black surround is gone, the cupholders are repositioned, and the armrest gets a comfier makeover.
Mazda says the front seats, which can be ordered with full leather on top trims for the first time, have been completely redesigned to be wider and more comfortable. The dashboard wears new faux-suede appliqués, the climate-control dials feature flashy red accents, and the rear seats have a new fold-down center armrest with cupholders. Together, these small changes add up to a tidier and classier look.
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.
Pros Stylish exterior Impressive cargo space Class-leading technology Smart interior layout Numerous customization options Price won't break the bank
Cons Not much bigger than the regular Encore Satellite radio costs extra Dual-zone climate control not standard It's slow even with the bigger engine Ride comfort is just ok Too similar to its Chevy counterpart
