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.
PROS Looks much better than the old car Decent interior quality Respectable 201-mile range
CONS Cramped rear seats Alternatives trump it for boot space Infotainment not the sharpest
The Vauxhall Mokka-e offers buyers sharp looks, a decent range, a generous amount of standard kit and a relatively comfy and quiet ride. However, if you’re looking for a funky urban EV, there are cheaper options available, such as the Fiat 500 and Mazda MX-30. Those looking for an EV to ‘do it all’, meanwhile, would be far better off with a Kia e-Niro or Volkswagen ID.3, both of which are far more spacious and will go much farther on a charge.
PROS Pretty comfortable Impressively quiet at speed Plenty of standard kit
CONS e-Niro and ID.3 have longer ranges Cheap feeling interior Not that quick by EV standards
“Does most of the everyday stuff nicely while looking like a bulldog wearing a crash helmet ”
PROS Distinctive modern looks, decent electric range, plenty of trim choices with lots of kit
CONS Brittle ride and dodgy brakes in the electric one. Some iffy cabin plastics. Ford’s Puma is a better steer
