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 2018 Dodge Journey ranked #19 in Midsize SUVs. Currently the Dodge Journey has a score of 7.0 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 55 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Smooth ride User-friendly infotainment system Extremely low price
Cons Unimpressive engines Below-average cargo space Lower safety score than rivals Fewer tech features than competitors
The 2018 Dodge Journey should be available at big discounts, which is the only way we’d consider it over far more polished rivals.
Pros Low price Seven-seat capability Good optional infotainment Versatile interior
Cons Bad safety scores Limited features Dated feel Underwhelming in almost every way
For 2018, the Journey's third-row seat is now standard on all trim levels.
Pros Extra versatility provided by standard three-row seat Low price for the segment
Cons Handling and drivability lag behind competitors Disappointing and outdated base engine and transmission Below-average fuel economy Lacks many modern safety and convenience features, even in top trims
