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.
For 2020, the Santa Fe lineup receives minor updates that mainly include reshuffled content. The base SE and mid-level SEL models add a standard Rear Occupant Alert that reminds owners to check the back seat. The SEL also gets more standard driver assists (blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and more). All SEL models with the Convenience package now have wireless charging for phones. The top-tier Limited model now has premium doorsills, dark-chrome exterior trim, and a new Blind-View Monitor.
Pros Excellent value versus rivals, enjoyable to drive daily, eminently practical cabin.
Cons Not particularly quick, ho-hum interior design and materials, mediocre fuel economy.
The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe ranked #2 in Midsize SUVs. Currently the Hyundai Santa Fe has a score of 8.5 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 21 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Comfortable ride Good fuel economy Quality interior Lots of easy-to-use tech features
Cons Underwhelming base engine Rivals handle better Less cargo space than some competitors
The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe comes with front wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.Enhanced blind-spot safety tech now standard on Limited trim.Minor revisions to feature availability.Ultimate top trim is gone.
Pros Abundant standard features for the money High-quality interior materials Generous warranty coverage Several standard and optional active safety features
Cons Base 2.4-liter engine's power and mpg are subpar View out of the rear side is blocked by wide roof pillars Sharp bumps can transmit harshness and road noise into the cabin
