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 MG ZS EV offers a lot for the money in the electric car world, with good interior space, a big boot and plenty of standard equipment. The thing to remember, though, is that more expensive electric cars, such as the Nissan Leaf and Kia e-Niro, are generally better to drive and, thanks to better resale values, might not cost you that much more in the long run.
Pros Lot of room for passengers Big boot Well equipped
Cos Poor predicted resale values Limited steering wheel adjustment Not that comfortable or good to drive
The MG ZS EV could be a surprise hit thanks to its powerful motor, excellent practicality and bargain price
Pros An affordable EV Improved drive Practical
Cos Cheap interior feel Wallowy handling No companion app
PROS Low list price and good finance options Usable electric range and performance Seven-year warranty, five-star safety rating Practicality unaffected by EV conversion
CONS Less range than key rivals It’s not quite as cheap as we had hoped Low-rent interior Not exciting to drive
