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 2019 Lexus NX 300h returns unchanged.We suggest adding the Comfort package for its heated and ventilated front seats and blind-spot monitoring. Because you can't get Apple CarPlay or Android Auto smartphone integration on the NX, adding the Navigation package may also be a wise choice.
Pros Great fuel economy for a luxury crossover Back seat has enough room for adults Very quiet cabin at highway speeds
Cons Limited cargo capacity Infotainment interface can be distracting to use
The 2019 Lexus NX remains a boldly styled, comfortable compact luxury crossover with solid standard features.
Pros Comfortable front seats Thrifty hybrid Now-familiar styling F Sport handling and seats CarPlay, finally
Cons Polarizing design Sub-par gas mileage on NX 300 Intrusive road noise Sluggish infotainment
The 2019 Lexus NX Hybrid ranked #10 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the Lexus NX Hybrid has a score of 8.1 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 28 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Supportive, roomy seats Great fuel economy Excellent predicted reliability rating
Cons Underpowered engine Distracting, awkward infotainment controls Subpar cargo space
