The 2017 Mazda CX-3 ranks 2 out of 12 Subcompact SUVs. The Mazda CX-3 is bursting with fun, featuring best-in-class performance and sporty handling that more resembles a car than an SUV. It has a comparatively low base price, yet the interior is marked by impressive materials and a handsome design. The CX-3 comes up short on rear passenger room and cargo space, however, which detracts from its convenience.
Pros Excellent athletic handling Class-leading fuel economy Impressive interior design Outstanding crash test results
Cons Cramped rear seat Small cargo area
Many compact crossover SUVs aren't so "compact" anymore. But the petite 2017 Mazda CX-3 might be just what you're after. It's stylish, easy to park and fun to drive. If interior space isn't a priority, this could be your ideal crossover.For 2017, the CX-3 carries over unchanged.
Pros Excellent fuel economy Sporty handling helps you have fun behind the wheel Impressively quiet at highway speeds Front seats are very comfortable and supportive Attractive, high-quality interior with appealing features.
Cons Snug rear seat and humble cargo capacity limit the CX-3's versatility.
The 2017 Mazda CX-3 keeps the most attractive features from last year: its price and its handling.Looks only tell half of the 2017 Mazda CX-3's story: The body cladding and badging on the CX-3 point toward a soft-roader based on the fun-to-drive Mazda 3, but there's more to its tale.The CX-3 earned a 7.2 overall rating on our scale, which is fairly high for the budget hatchback. We like its fuel economy and features, but it has room to improve on features and overall comfort.
Pros Ample features and good value Available all-wheel-drive system Good handling and impressive performance for segment Easy to learn infotainment
Cons No manual, paddle shifters only on top models Not a lot of rear seat room Monochrome gauges look cheap Head-up display is nice, but not very useful
The 2017 Subaru Forester ranks 8 out of 18 Compact SUVs. The 2017 Subaru Forester offers one of the lowest starting prices in the class, a competitive list of features, and the rarity of standard all-wheel drive. These make it a triple threat in the highly competitive compact SUV class.
Pros Highest cargo capacity in the class Roomy back seats Standard all-wheel drive Lots of available safety features
Cons Bland interior styling Below-average fuel economy
One of the best small SUVs, the 2017 Subaru Forester is a good value, with remarkable interior volume, thrifty fuel economy, and top safety scores. The Subaru Forester is a compact utility vehicle with wagon-like practicality and standard all-wheel drive. It has the capabilities of a crossover, the ride and handling of a car, and plenty of all-weather security and even off-road capability.
Pros Good ride, enjoyable driving Top-notch safety scores, systems Spacious cabin with super visibility Among the best CVTs around Turbo adds speedy performance
Cons Shift paddles only on turbo No manual offered with turbo Priciest models not all that premium
The 2017 Forester receives numerous updates, starting with wider feature availability, additional noise insulation and quicker steering response. The enhanced EyeSight safety system now has lane departure intervention and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Automatic high-beam headlight control is newly available, as are adaptive LED headlights and reverse automatic braking. Styling revisions include new headlights and taillights, plus a freshened grille and front end.
Pros Airy interior with plenty of room for adults in both seating rows Impressive fuel economy for an all-wheel-drive crossover Optional turbocharged engine provides spirited acceleration Above-average off-road ability
Cons CVT may seem less responsive and refined than a traditional automatic Doesn't feel as sporty around turns as some rivals Cabin design and materials aren't especially noteworthy Maximum tow rating isn't particularly robust
