The 2021 Hyundai Palisade's #3 ranking is based on its score within the Midsize SUVs category. Currently the Hyundai Palisade has a score of 8.3 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 16 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Refined ride and handling Spacious, quality interior Comfortable seats User-friendly infotainment system Many standard safety features
Cons Mediocre fuel economy
For its next trick, Hyundai will turn its already luxurious Palisade SUV into an even more upscale three-rower with the addition of the top-spec Calligraphy trim for 2021. The Calligraphy model adds unique exterior lighting elements, boldly-designed 20-inch wheels, a distinct grille finish, and standard all-wheel drive. Inside, buyers of the enhanced model will notice a faux-suede headliner, quilted-leather upholstery on the doors and seats, and a perforated leather wrap on the steering wheel.
Pros Intuitive dashboard layout, class-leading features, every trim is teeming with value.
Cons Intrusive wind noise on the highway, styling may not appeal to everyone, tight door pockets.
New range-topping Calligraphy trim level.Restructured option packages.
Pros Plenty of space for adults in all three rows Lots of standard and optional high-tech features Comfortable seating and ride quality
Cons Handling isn't as crisp as with some rival SUVs
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.
