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 Hyundai Palisade ranked #10 in Midsize SUVs. Currently the Hyundai Palisade has a score of 8.0 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 11 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Long list of standard, high-tech safety features Upscale interior styling and options Sleek ride Three rows of comfortable seats
Cons So-so handling and acceleration
The 2020 Hyundai Palisade is not Hyundai's first three-row SUV, but it certainly is its best and biggest. The Palisade replaces the Hyundai Santa Fe XL, which suffered from a cramped third row fit for only occasional use. The Palisade's silky ride quality and premium interior appointments teeter at the edge of luxury. Offering three spacious rows of seating, loads of safety and driver-assist technology, all-wheel drive, and distinctive styling, it's a bold statement for this Korean manufacturer.
The 2020 Hyundai Palisade comes with front wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.The Palisade is an all-new model from Hyundai Standard three-row seating.Replaces the previous Hyundai Santa Fe XL.
Pros Plenty of space in all three rows for adults Lots of standard and optional high-tech features Robust standard V6 offers good towing power
Cons Top trim has a hefty price tag Some familiar buttons and knobs from less expensive vehicles No optional engines offered
The 2020 Hyundai Palisade is a value-packed three-row crossover coming to a garage near you.
Pros Daring looks Cushy ride Good space inside Quality materials Good value among competitors
Cons Not very fuel-efficient Limited trims can get pricey Dense infotainment system Not particularly quick