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 2020 GMC Yukon is a business-casual blue-collar SUV with truck-like capability, but many crossovers do it better, and cheaper.
Pros Strong V-8 engines Massive towing capacity High-class interior Business-class looks Comfortable ride quality on Denali
Cons Limited cargo space High top-end price Floor height hampers leg room Most crossovers do people better
The GMC Yukon is essentially unchanged for 2020.
Pros Seating for up to nine people Impressive towing capacity from standard V8 engine Quiet and nicely trimmed cabin
Cons Sluggish engine and brake responses with standard engine High trunk floor reduces cargo space and makes loading items difficult Maneuvering in tight spaces is a challenge
The 2019 GMC Yukon ranked #6 in Large SUVs. Currently the GMC Yukon has a score of 7.6 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 25 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Classy cabin Smooth ride with upgraded suspension
Cons Cramped third row and cargo space in standard configuration Bumpy ride with base suspension