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 Tucson comes with front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic.No significant changes for the 2020 Tucson.
Pros A wealth of features for the money Easy-to-use infotainment system Comfortable ride on rough roads Interior materials are a little bit nicer than what's used in rivals
Cons Slow acceleration with the base engine Less cargo space than top rivals Fuel economy falls behind class leaders
What the 2020 Hyundai Tucson lacks in distinctiveness, it makes up for in value, safety, and features.
Pros Great value Smooth ride Quiet interior Excellent warranty No-frills styling
Cons Spartan base model Smaller size than rivals Top tech reserved for Limited model
The 2020 Hyundai Tucson ranked #9 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Hyundai Tucson has a score of 7.7 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 27 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Relaxed ride Good predicted reliability rating Solid list of standard technology Long warranty
Cons Uninspiring engine options Lower fuel economy estimates than rivals Below-average cargo space
The 2019 received a wide range of updates, so the 2020 Tucson's changes are modest. Hyundai revamped the available colors for the exterior; a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob are standard on Sport trim levels and above.
Pros Handsome exterior, straightforward dashboard design, agreeable driving demeanor.
Cons Less cargo space than key rivals, mediocre fuel economy, powertrain warranty doesn't transfer to second owner.
