Not only is the MX-30 an all-new model for Mazda, it marks the first time the Japanese automaker has experimented with an all-electric powertrain. It's similarly sized to the current CX-3 and the upcoming CX-30 crossovers, but borrows the MX nomenclature of the MX-5 Miata, giving us hope that it will be a performance-oriented option in the electric-SUV marketplace.
Another day, another electric vehicle. This time around it's from Mazda, and it blends all the hallmarks of a sporty city SUV with a fully-electric heart. The MX-30 debuts Mazda's pure-electric e-SkyActiv platform, along with a number of new interior technologies likely to filter through the rest of the Japanese brand's line-up in due course. The all-electric MX-30 is part of Mazda's plan to offer an e-SkyActiv (hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or fully-electric) vehicle in each of its model lines by 2030. That includes everything from the Mazda 2 through to the dual-cab BT-50 replacement.
Mazda could have played it safe with this one but it didn't. Instead, it went bold. Rugged, in fact. All the more impressive is the fact that the all-new 2021 Mazda MX-30 is the Japanese automaker's first-ever all-electric vehicle. Going bold is something GM, for example, never would have done. Just look at the Chevrolet Bolt. The new MX-30, by contrast, has unique styling inside and out that may not be to everyone's liking. Mazda has been repositioning itself over the past few years as a more premium brand overall, and the MX-30's slightly more rugged look is not what everyone expected. But it also serves as the ideal gateway model for the brand as it takes its first step towards all-out electrification. The question is whether the MX-30 can successfully challenge the likes of the popular Hyundai Kona Electric, Kia Niro EV, and even the upcoming BMW iX3.
After last year's mild refresh, the 2020 Edge remains largely unchanged. A new Elite package dresses up the Titanium's interior with Brunello door inserts and brick-red stitching. All trim levels are treated to dual-zone climate control, an 8.0-inch Sync 3 touchscreen, a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat, and a reverse-sensing system. New to the color palette are Atlas Blue, Dark Persian Green, Desert Gold, Iconic Silver, Rapid Red, and Star White.
Pros Quiet cabin, comfortable seats, plentiful standard equipment.
Cons Subpar interior materials, drives like it's wearing two left shoes, starting to show its age.
The 2020 Ford Edge comes with all wheel drive, and front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic, 8-speed automatic.Titanium Elite Package adds upscale exterior and interior touches.Six new paint colors,
Pros Plush, well-padded seats Plenty of space for passengers and luggage Both fuel-efficient and performance-oriented engines Quiet cabin at highway speeds
Cons Outward visibility hampered by thick roof pillars and blind spots Interior design and control layout are dated and bland Uncomfortable ride over small bumps and dips Transmission responses are a little sluggish
