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 XC40 Recharge is an all-new model for Volvo this year and represents the Swedish brand's first foray into all-electric propulsion—that's if you don't count its Polestar division's new Polestar 2 EV.
Pros Attractive styling, peppy acceleration, thoughtfully designed cabin.
Cons Key rivals offer more driving range, hefty curb weight, much pricier than the gasoline model.
For 2021 New fully electric version of the XC40,402 horsepower,Estimated 208 miles of range.
Pros Quick acceleration Easy-to-use infotainment system Practical SUV body style
Cons Less range than rival EVs Below-average energy efficiency Small cargo area
The Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric has an appealing interior, a decent electric range, rapid performance and impressive safety credentials. It’s expensive next to many rivals, but the lower-spec models stack up fairly well next to similarly premium (if often larger and, in some cases, more fun) alternatives.
Pros High-quality interior Rapid performance Decent range
Cons Expensive next to many rivals Fiddly infotainment menus No traditional PCP finance