The 2020 Mazda CX-9 comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic.Several previously optional safety features are now standard on the base Sport trim level.New options, such as a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen and second-row captain's chairs.Two USB ports added to the third row on Grand Touring and Signature models.Maximum torque output goes from 310 to 320 lb-ft with 93-octane fuel.
PROS Premium interior, especially in the top-level Signature trim Sporty handling Comfortable and quiet on the highway
CONS Cargo capacity isn't as generous as in competitors Third-row seats aren't especially accommodating
The 2020 Mazda CX-9 is a crossover SUV that rewards drivers more than it does other passengers.
Pros Very attractive Well-done interior Good safety gear Engaging responsiveness
Cons Lousy infotainment Cramped third-row and cargo space Limited lineup
Mazda has given the CX-9 several upgrades for 2020, not least of which is a standard suite of driver-assistance features called i-Activsense. The bundle includes automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Also now standard are heated front seats with power adjustments for the driver, rain-sensing windshield wipers, automatic headlamps, and heated exterior mirrors. Touring, Grand Touring, and Signature models now come with a larger 9.0-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a new key-fob design, and power-adjustable second-row seats.
Pros Snappy driving dynamics, great fuel economy, premium cabin.
Cons Small cargo bay, third row is only for kids, low towing capacity.
The 2020 Jeep Compass receives several minor updates this year. The majority of the changes include newly available features for the cheapest Compass—the base Sport model. It can now be ordered with blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and more with the Safety and Security package. Likewise, the Advanced Safety package unlocks even more desirable content such as adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beams, forward-collision warning, a leather steering wheel, and more.
Pros Truly capable off-road, copious technology options, handsome Jeep styling.
Cons Clumsy automatic transmission, easily becomes overpriced, just get a Jeep Cherokee.
The 2020 Jeep Compass comes with front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic, 6-speed manual.Minor revisions to feature availability.
PROS Roomy seating for such a small vehicle Tech interface is attractive and easy to use Trailhawk version is highly capable off-road
CONS Four-cylinder engine's weak power delivery Limited cargo space Nine-speed transmission's sluggish response
The 2019 Jeep Compass stays true to the brand’s off-road formula, but bends toward usability rather than capability.
Pros Handsome exterior Generous, standard 7.0-inch touchscreen Rugged Trailhawk option Good customization options Respectable fuel economy, for now
Cons Indecisive 9-speed automatic Active safety features a spend-up option Mixed crash-test scores Three will fit in the back in a pinch, literally
