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.
Oh yes, it’s another dinky SUV. But it’s hard to be angry at something wearing the face of a robotic chipmunk like this Peugeot 2008 does.It’s an aesthetically pleasing thing all round, really, looking like it was designed from the off as an individual model. As opposed to the old 2008, which had the demeanour of a 208 hatchback carrying Christmas weight. This new one looks big, mind, and indeed it’s longer and more commodious than before.
Pros Fancy dials, great petrol engines and a decent EV
Cons Firm (ish) ride, pricey if you tick too many boxes
Pros Eye-catching design inside and out Broad range of engine options Cabin is spacious, plus big boot
Cons Top-spec models can be pricey 3D digital dials take some getting used to Driving position still won’t suit all
Stylish inside and out with plenty of substance to match, the Peugeot 2008 is a polished and practical small SUV. Its ride and handling may not particularly inspire, and the high-spec models are incredibly pricey, but the lower-end – and still decently equipped – versions are thoroughly recommendable.
Pros Brilliant interior quality Excellent rear seat space Frugal engines
Cons Bumpy low speed ride Top models are very expensive Average-size boot with rear seats up
