For 2019, the Mazda CX-3 receives a refresh that includes new exterior touches, a very slight increase in engine output, redesigned seats, and front and rear center armrests. Some features have also been shuffled between trim levels, and advanced safety features are available across the lineup.
Pros Attractive and comfortable interior Engaging driving experience Impressive fuel economy for a crossover Good selection of available driver aids and active safety features
Cons Suspension tuning may be too firm for some Cramped rear seat Below-average cargo space
The 2019 Mazda CX-3 fails to launch in the crossover-SUV space race.
Pros Great, simple exterior shape Good standard touchscreen Standard advanced safety features Competitive fuel economy
Cons Cramped rear seat Not much cargo room with seats up Finicky infotainment system Small safety demerit
the 2019 CX-3 retains its trapezoidal bar grille but has a new inner grille design. New lower chrome trim on the sides complements the carryover side-sill chrome slat, while the headlights carry on unchanged. The rear lights, however, see a new design that’s more similar to those in front, with a round eye accented by straight lines.Inside, Mazda replaced the prior cable-operated parking brake with an electronic unit with an automatic hold feature and incorporated it into the center console next to the rotary infotainment dial. That change opens up some real estate on the console, and the mode selector has been relocated behind the shifter’s PRND indicator, the previous gloss-black surround is gone, the cupholders are repositioned, and the armrest gets a comfier makeover.
Mazda says the front seats, which can be ordered with full leather on top trims for the first time, have been completely redesigned to be wider and more comfortable. The dashboard wears new faux-suede appliqués, the climate-control dials feature flashy red accents, and the rear seats have a new fold-down center armrest with cupholders. Together, these small changes add up to a tidier and classier look.
For 2021, Mercedes gifts the GLC lineup with more standard features and more standalone options. A passive hands-free entry as well as a self-parking function and rear cross-traffic alert are now included on every model. Automatic high-beam assist and a 360-degree camera system are now available separately on a GLC300 without being bundled as part of a package.
Pros Quiet and refined, gorgeous and spacious interior, more space inside than a C-Class.
Cons Lacks driving verve, limited cargo space, most driver assists aren't standard should you want them.
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class can be a soothing urban oasis—or a roaring twin-turbo V-8 track star. It’s your call.
Pros Great looks AMG’s unbridled performance Comfortable ride and interior Good rear seat room Good active safety features
Cons Top prices approach $100,000 Compromised outward vision in coupes Small rear doors in coupes
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class's #3 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Compact SUVs category. Currently the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class has a score of 8.2 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 28 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Potent engine lineup Posh, comfortable interior Surefooted handling User-friendly infotainment system
Cons Coupe models have cramped rear seats and cargo area Higher starting price than many rivals
