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.
The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander has enough value, features, and style to make it worth considering, but not to stand out.
Pros Standard features list Expanded active safety tech All-wheel drive available across the range Exterior styling
Cons Cheap cabin materials Anemic base engine V-6 isn’t much of an upgrade Cramped third-row seat
The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander comes with all wheel drive, and front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: continuously variable-speed automatic.New 8-inch touchscreen for most trim levels.New rear seats with additional rear-seat USB port.New midlevel SP (Special Edition) trim.
Pros Generous list of standard features Standard three-row seating Good outward visibility
Cons Slow, noisy acceleration with the base four-cylinder Thirsty V6 is available only on the top-of-the-line GT Third-row seat is small Limited Mitsubishi dealer network
