Month: December 2021

2021 is the year where EV’s are going mainstream as a handful of brands have already unveiled and are currently selling vehicles powered by alternative energy. It wasn’t too long ago that Tesla was the only manufacturer going against the flow, but now we have the Jaguar I-Pace, Audi E-Tron, VW ID.4 and the Mustang Mach-E all adding some variety and unique styling to take on the Model Y and X. Among the list of factors that have kept Americans from hopping on the EV bandwagon and ditching their gas powered cars is pricing, range, and even overall design as these futuristic vehicles are certainly an acquired taste. The Ford Mustang Mach-E is here to change your preconceived perceptions of electric cars, but more importantly could be the game changer that draws in new consumers to a growing market. So here are 5 reasons why you should buy a 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E.

Conventional Interior

A theme we often see with EV’s is tech driven and futuristic interiors that propel you into a new generation of automotive history, but not everyone is fans of this drastic change to the ergonomics of cabins for modern vehicles. Tesla for instance has gone with a minimalistic design by having very few physical buttons, and instead most of the settings and functions will be found on their 15 inch touchscreen. Ford on the other hand designed the Mach-E’s interior to be very much like other crossovers in their lineup, with a push button start, physical buttons found on the steering wheel, a digital gauge cluster, a dial that controls exterior lighting, a frunk latch, and gear selector that we now see in most new Ford products.

While some EV’s require you to take some time to get acclimated with everything, the Mach-E allows you to step inside, put it into drive, and you’re on the road immediately with no learning curve whatsoever. Of course, that massive 15.5 inch screen is something you’ll have to get used to, but if you’re familiar with Ford’s user interfaces, it should become second nature after 5 minutes or so. Because of the conventional layout for the interior, the Mach-E feels like a natural progression in the world of automotive design, and is one of the reasons why this crossover has become an overnight success as it brings a sense of the present and mixes it with the future, rather than giving you this perception that you were transported 10 years into the future like you feel with Tesla.

Engaging To Drive

As enthusiasts we prefer the sound of gas powered motors and the ability to row through the gears ourselves, and for many in the car community there has been some skepticism as to whether electric cars can rival modern day vehicles when it comes to driving dynamics, cornering, and acceleration. Without stating the obvious that this crossover has Mustang emblems found throughout this vehicle, many people assume it will drive like a sports car, or at the very least have high expectations that it won’t be your average, every day SUV. We’re happy to report that Ford didn’t forget about us, and in fact for the short term, is one of the more powerful options available in the EV segment not named Tesla, and should fulfill the desires many buyers have when it comes to performance.

The model used in the full review was the Premium with dual electric motors and the extended range battery to give us 346 hp and 428 lb ft of torque and a 0-60 time of right around 4.8 seconds which falls right in line with the Model Y Long Range. With 270 miles of range on a full electric charge, the fun continued for many hours during my time with the Mach-E, and that is more than enough range for most buyers who have shorter commutes. Due to the battery placement, the Mach-E has a low center of gravity, making backroad driving extremely enjoyable as you silently carve your way through rural areas. Where this crossover does differ from the Model Y is that you won’t get thrown back in your seat, and after spending 24 hours with this EV, it feels more like a luxury crossover rather being more performance oriented, and that isn’t a bad thing at all especially when Ford will be offering a Mach-E GT later this year.

Reasonably Priced

You’ve probably said to yourself recently, “I like the idea of going electric, but they’re expensive and out of my budget”. While the model used for this video is a Premium, you can go with a Select trim that starts just under $43k, and since this vehicle qualifies for the $7500 tax credits you could be paying less than $40k. Even for the Premium, you’re looking at potentially spending below $50k, and that’s including the dual electric motors and extended range battery. When compared to the Tesla Model Y Long Range, price ranges matchup pretty evenly unless you opt for the $10k self driving package that Tesla offers.

However, where the Mustang Mach-E can become very successful is by drawing in consumers who are unable to spend $70k on an Audi E-Tron or Jaguar IPace, and when you look at available range and optional equipment, the Mach-E provides quite a lot of value for a crossover with a price tag below $50k, and is actually a better alternative to Tesla than the VW ID.4.

Good Looking EV

Automotive design for hybrid and electric vehicles hasn’t always garnered positive attention, especially for cars priced at or below $50k. The emphasis on futuristic styling that resembles renderings for concept cars often makes their way onto the final product, and rather than producing attractive, sleek, and streamlined vehicles that blend in on the highway, brands give buyers a hybrid or EV that’s going to draw negative or unwanted attention. The Ford Mustang Mach-E bucks this trend, despite purists being up in arms over the nameplate, and unlike competitors, have an inspiring and cool road presence for this crossover that takes design elements from the Mustang, especially with the taillights.

One of the criticisms Tesla has faced over the years is that their cars are very bland, and now with other options in this price range, the Model Y certainly won’t be seen as best looking in it’s class. On the there hand, you then have legacy manufacturers trying to appeal to a younger demographic with sharper body lines and eye catching designs that just don’t translate to most consumers. Ford went more traditional, and if you had no prior knowledge of this crossover you’d probably think it’s gas powered, which isn’t far fetched as we’ve seen sporty and athletic SUV’s over the years based on performance cars. What Ford has essentially done with the Mach-E is embrace the future while also sticking to conventional methods that could have a positive impact on the EV market as a whole, and prove to Americans that you can in fact own a cool looking car that’s powered by alternative energy

Best EV Not Named Tesla

With Tesla setting the bar high for what an EV should be in 2021, many have waited for a true rival that could give the brand a run for their money. But as recent history has shown us, manufacturers have had a difficult time emulating the successTesla has had with their vehicles, while also falling short when it comes to range and pricing. However, the Ford Mustang Mach-E is the first EV from a legacy brand that has the full package of being efficient, practical, and affordable, while also having a striking road presence. Up until 2021, we couldn’t say that for most EV’s, and even today as we see new arrivals to this segment like the VW ID.4, Ioniq 5, and Kia EV6, the Mach-E still appears to be the crossover to beat among brands not wearing the Tesla badge.

Enthusiasts and purists believed Ford was making a mistake by sticking the Mustang emblem on their first ever electric car, but not even a few months in, and the popularity and enthusiasm is off the charts. Time will only tell, but this could very well be the crossover that propels Ford to being one of the leaders in the next generation of automotive design and technology.

The post 5 Reasons Why You Should Buy A 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E appeared first on Boston Auto Blog.

Driving shouldn’t be a chore or a dreadful experience, especially if you’re a young enthusiast looking to be a part of your local car community or you just want a fun daily driver. Most likely, you’re on a strict budget so exotic and high performance cars are out of the question, but there’s plenty of other options that are not only affordable, but sensible and practical as well. So here are 5 cars under $20k every young enthusiast should buy.

Ford Fiesta ST

As the old saying goes, it’s more fun to drive a slow car fast rather than a fast car slow, but this doesn’t mean you’re immune to getting in trouble behind the wheel. No longer in production in 2021 for the US market, the Ford Fiesta ST is actually a rare commodity these days and is a relic of the past when Ford wasn’t committed to a full lineup of crossovers. The true definition of a hot hatch, the Fiesta ST is powered by a 1.6L turbocharged 4 cylinder engine that puts out 197 hp and 214 lb ft of torque and comes standard with a 6 speed manual transmission. While not the most impressive performance numbers on paper, keep in mind that this little hatchback only weights 2,750 lbs, so it’s lightness is going to allow you to throw the Fiesta ST around in corners for an engaging driving experience on winding backroads.

Even better the fun you’ll have during your weekday commutes doesn’t come at the expense of practicality and efficiency, as you can expect to receive 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, and with the Fiesta ST being a hatch you’ll have more plenty of room for groceries and smaller items. So what is all of this going to cost you?

According to CarGurus you’re looking at spending in the ballpark of $15k.

Ford Focus ST

If the Fiesta ST isn’t enough car for you and you’re looking for something a bit larger, more practical, and overall better when it comes to performance, then taking a look at the Ford Focus ST and paying a little extra might be a great decision for you. Just like it’s smaller sibling, the Focus lineup is no longer sold in the US, so if you want a sporty hatchback from Ford you’ll have to buy used. Under the hood the Focus ST is powered by a 2 liter, turbocharged 4 cylinder engine that puts out 252 hp and 270 lb ft of torque and is also paired with a 6 speed manual transmission. When compared to rivals, it does outperform the competition when it comes to power, and for 0-60 times you’re looking at right around 6 seconds.

With the bigger dimensions, the Focus ST is also more practical than the Fiesta ST, as passengers will be a bit more comfortable in the second row. For fuel economy you can expect a reasonable 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, and once again with this being a hatchback it’s going to be fun but practical option for you if your budget is below $20k.

For pricing you can find Focus ST’s anywhere from $12-$20k, with 2018 models now being priced just below $19k.

Volkswagen GTI

Throughout the last 20 years, the Volkswagen GTI has always been a hatchback that’s drawn in enthusiasts of all ages, and that’s because it’s one of the best all around great cars you can buy both new or used. The only German car on this list, the GTI brings a sense of refinement and enhanced driving dynamics that makes it one of the more appealing options in this price range. It can also be seen as a stepping stone that introduces you to European luxury and performance cars at a younger age, as most likely this won’t be your last vehicle from the VW/Audi family. With a sports tuned suspension and tight and direct steering, the GTI is going to provide plenty of fun on backroads while also doubling as a responsible daily driver when cruising around town.

Under the hood the Mk7 GTI will have a 2 liter turbocharged 4 cylinder engine that will either put out 210 or 220 hp depending on whether your model has the performance package if you go with the S trim, and 258 lb ft of torque and will be paired with a 6 speed manual transmission or a 6 speed DSG. In some ways, the GTI is the more mature and adult car in this price range as this hatch has been beloved by many enthusiasts throughout the decades, and for those who are eager to modify their first performance car, there’s plenty of aftermarket support to help you make your GTI unique.

Pricing for the Mk7 GTI is very similar to the Focus ST, so expect paying anywhere between $15k-$20k

Scion FR-S/Subaru BRZ

Maybe not the most practical or responsible car you could buy if this will be your daily driver and you’re in high school or college, but it’s most certainly affordable and a 2 door coupe that embodies everything that made JDM cars popular among young enthusiasts back in the 90’s. It’s small, agile, and RWD which together not only makes it fun to cruise around in, but it’s also a car that will make you a better driver, as you’ll learn how to be in full control behind the wheel, and of course with the optional manual transmission you’ll master shifting through gears.

The Scion FRS and Subaru BRZ brings simplicity back to the automotive world in a time when everything is about big touchscreens and upscale interiors, as the cabin is a flashback to the past when you step inside. Under the hood the BRZ and FRS is powered by a 2 liter naturally aspirated 4 cylinder engine that puts out 200 hp and 151 lb ft of torque, and while numbers most certainly don’t impress on paper, keep in mind that this 2 door coupe is extremely light so the cornering ability will definitely put a smile on your face.

Since the FR-S and BRZ have been in production for so long, variety on the used car market is plentiful. You can easily find these for around $15k if not less, and if you’re on a strict budget this two door sports car is definitely a great option to go with.

Honda Civic Si

The last car on this list is none other than the Honda Civic Si, which might not be the flashiest vehicle on this list, nor is it the most powerful. However, if you’re looking for a practical and reliable car that can be fun to drive as well, then the Civic Si could fit the bill. Honda has always been a brand that’s appealed to a younger demographic, especially the Civic as it’s easy to maintain and offers a decent amount of performance. In the price range below $20k, you can find both sedan and coupe variants with relatively low mileage, and thanks to depreciation 2018 and 2019 model years are now within budget.

As with most of the vehicles on this list, you will have modern day amenities such as heated seats and smartphone compatibility. While it may not draw the most amount of attention, the Civic Si does come with a 2 liter turbocharged 4 cylinder engine that puts out 205 hp and 191 lb ft of torque and is paired with a 6 speed manual transmission. As manufacturers abandon the manual, there’s not many newer cars that allow you to row through the gears yourself, but the Civic Si is one of those exceptions. 0-60 times come in at right around 6.8 seconds, which isn’t the quickest car out of the 5 on our list, but it’s probably the most sensible for a younger driver as fuel efficiency is very impressive with 26 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.

All in all, it’s a car that you can depend on. Sure there’s other options out there in this price range that could easily take the Civic’s spot, but for buyers on a budget who want to make a responsible purchasing decision that gives them a bit of everything enthusiasts love, there’s no better car on the market.

Let us know what cars you think should be on this list. Leave a comment below and make sure to follow us on YouTube to check out our latest reviews to help you find your next vehicle!

The post 5 Cars Under $20k Every Young Enthusiast Should Buy appeared first on Boston Auto Blog.

It’s never the wrong time to look at buying a fun weekend car, or possibly a daily driver that’s not going to clean out your bank account. Sometimes it’s easier said than done, especially if you have high standards in terms of luxury features, performance, or even the badges found throughout the car. One sports coupe that has flown below the radar it’s entire life cycle is the BMW M235i, as some brand loyalists and enthusiasts will always look at this car as being inferior to the M2. Whether you’re new to the car community or a seasoned veteran, BMW buyers take the M badge very seriously, to a point where M-Performance models are disregarded and never given the recognition they actually deserve. But is the M235i one of those rare exceptions?

Being the successor to the beloved E82 1 Series, initially the 2 Series received a luke-warm welcome from enthusiasts just prior to the M2’s arrival, and that’s due impart to the changes BMW was making to the lineup around 2014. The mid 2010’s saw the introduction of the F-Series, including the highly controversial F30 3 Series and F32 4 Series, which lacked the driving and handling characteristics of BMW’s of the past. Whether for better or worse, these cars were becoming more computerized and electronic, losing the soul and passion that enthusiasts have loved about “The Ultimate Driving Machine” for decades. Interestingly enough though, it’s the F22 2 Series, the forgotten sibling in the lineup, that quietly received high praise when it first started hitting showrooms.

Deemed as the spiritual successor to the E46 M3 by many journalists, the M235i is a small, agile ,and quick sports coupe that could make tedious weekday commutes enjoyable, and back road driving an absolute blast. Even better, on the used car market you can find a number of 2014-2016 models below $30k, making them a great alterative to the Volkswagen GTI, Golf R, Audi S3, and Mercedes Benz CLA 45 AMG. What all these cars have in common is being attainable, modifiable, practical, great handling, and a great bang for your buck if you’re on a budget, and the M235i fits right with this group, but as a 2 door coupe.

Under the hood the M235i is powered by a 3 liter turbocharged inline 6 cylinder engine that puts out 320 hp and 330 lb ft of torque, and can be paired with either a 6-speed manual or a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. For even more fun, you can opt for RWD, but for better year round drivability, BMW’s xDrive AWD system would probably be the better fit if you live in colder regions of the US. With that AWD system, the M235i is capable of going from 0-60 in right around 4.5 seconds, which is certainly not something to overlook in terms of performance, despite falling just a bit short when compared to the CLA 45 AMG. However, it does fill a void in this price range, as there aren’t too many relatively new 2 door sports coupes from Europe priced below $30k. For fuel economy, the M235i offers a reasonable 20 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. So while it may not be as practical as a sedan or hatchback, it does retain some form of efficiency.

It’s been debated whether you could own an M235i and use it as your daily driver, and while this little coupe offers 13 cubic ft of rear cargo space, it’s not likely this car will be conducive for a family. Legroom for passengers in the back is minimal, and we’d use those rear seats for groceries or additional storage if there’s no space left in the trunk. However, because the M235i can be equipped with AWD, you could most certainly drive this car year round and take on snow covered roads.

The M235i does have a weak spot despite being mostly flawless, and that’s the interior layout. Even in 2015, buyers would criticize the quality of the cabin, as technology was certainly lacking early on. But when you compare the 2 Series interior to the Audi A3/S3 and Mercedes Benz CLA it’s not egregiously worse than it’s rivals. For a sports coupe that was introduced to the lineup last decade, we’d argue it’s one of the last old school and raw BMW’s since the E92 M3, which is why the M235i shouldn’t be overlooked because it doesn’t have an M2 badge.

When you factor in pricing, the turbocharged inline 6 cylinder engine, and an optional manual transmission with RWD, the M235i quickly becomes one of the greatest bargains on the used car market today. It might not be the flashiest, but it’s a true driver’s car that deserves far more recognition and respect than most enthusiasts are willing to give it.

The post Is The BMW M235i The Best Car You Could Buy For Less Than $30k? appeared first on Boston Auto Blog.

When car shopping, you’re always going to hear from friends, coworkers, or automotive journalists that going upmarket and spending extra on a luxury compact crossover is a great decision. Yet, you’re rarely given logical or legitimate reasons why, other than subcompacts are cheaply made and not as refined as the more expensive vehicles in the lineup, despite the fact that they offer practicality, an entry level luxury experience, and a relatively affordable price tag that won’t break the bank. However, there is some truth to overlooking these crossovers and going with something bigger, and for Mercedes Benz, purchasing a GLC instead of a GLA is going to make you a happier customer in the long run. So here is a short list of reasons why you should spend the extra $6k and buy a 2021 Mercedes Benz GLC 300.

More Spacious Interior

Starting off with the most obvious is the improved practicality, as the GLC is 9 inches longer and 2 inches wider than the GLA, which is going to have a profound effect on the interior room of the cabin. While you’re not going to feel as claustrophobic in a subcompact crossover as you would in a sedan, for a family of three or four, you’ll quickly outgrow this vehicle and find yourself in need of upgrading rather quickly. With the GLC, all occupants will have plenty of leg and head room, and for the 2nd row, it is possible to fit a third person in the center, which is less likely in the GLA.

For rear cargo space, the GLC will initially have 19.5 cubic ft of room behind the 2nd row seats, but keep in mind this is not class leading by any means. However, there is a bit of deception as there’s plenty of room in terms of width and we believe you could fit multiple bags of luggage if you’re going on a road trip with the family. The GLA on the other hand, will have 15.4 cubic ft of cargo space which is also nowhere close to being the most practical in it’s segment and actually falls short of what most hatchbacks offer. Where the GLA becomes a viable option is if you don’t have a family and live in the city, as it’s perfectly sized and provides enough space for quick trips to the grocery store.

Better Performance

Crossovers have never really been known to offer the most exhilarating driving experiences, especially for non performance models, but where the GLC differs from the GLA isn’t limited to the horsepower and lb ft of torque figures we see on paper, but rather how both vehicles manage that power through different drive modes and whether they provide a plush and comfortable ride during your weekday commutes or weekend road trips.

After recently featuring both, the GLC is far and a way smoother, with a more linear acceleration and meaningful sport plus mode that actually provides great driver feedback, which is something we couldn’t say with the GLA. If you insist on going with the subcompact crossover because a vehicle the size of a GLC isn’t necessary, we recommend upgrading to the GLA35 AMG for better overall performance. Otherwise, when driving on back roads, the highway, or even in urban area, the GLA struggles to really impress in any mode besides comfort and eco, as the 2 liter 4 cylinder engine leaves much more to be desired, even if you don’t intend on accelerating aggressively.

This is where the GLC comes in to steal the show, as no matter what condition or environment you face when traveling, this crossover is going to provide one of the smoothest driving experiences in this segment without question, and we believe there’s better refinement when it comes to the luxury aspect when compared to the Audi Q5 and BMW X3. The turbocharged 4 cylinder under the hood pairs very well with the 9 speed automatic transmission, and when shifting through gears it’s seamless and pleasant, reflecting the overall sophisticated stature of this crossover. While sport plus mode effects throttle response and steering input, it’s not so aggressive where drivers looking for something more relaxed and serene won’t be disturbed when desiring to get up to speed in a quicker manner.

However, we can’t overlook the GLA’s driving dynamics, as it’s on par with it’s closest rivals and doesn’t disappoint in the overall grand scheme of things. It meets the expectations of many consumers and is going to offer a superior ride quality to non German competitors, but if you’re looking for a healthy dose of performance to match the entry level luxury feel, that’s where you may want to upgrade to either the GLC or GLA35 AMG.

More Refined and Luxurious

If you were to test drive both the GLC and GLA back to back, before even driving off the lot you’re going to notice the significant difference in terms of interior quality. While Mercedes Benz has made great strides to offering an upscale cabin with their 4 models priced below $40k that we’d argue is currently better than BMW and Audi’s interior layout in this segment, the GLC even in it’s current state and in need of a refresh, is miles ahead when it comes to interior design. You feel as though you’re sitting in a cockpit, with the dashboard and center console wrapping around you to provide a safe and secure feeling, while also having higher quality materials to give you a true sense of luxury and craftsmanship.

Despite not having the same digital gauge cluster and infotainment system layout that we saw in the GLA and GLB, functionality remains the same and in true Mercedes Benz fashion is still going offer an in-depth user interface that’s responsive and high quality. The digital gauge cluster is certainly on par with Audi’s virtual cockpit, and even better it’s fully customizable.

Yet for buyers who are emphatic about purchasing a GLA, Mercedes Benz hasn’t forgotten about you, and in fact is one of the few brands that will go above and beyond it’s rivals when it comes to optional features and packages. This includes contoured leather seats, that are heated and ventilated, 3 position memory for both the driver and passenger, augmented reality for the navigation system, adjustable 2nd row seats, ambient lighting, and a panoramic moonroof. Do keep in mind that as you start adding those features, you’re now entering the same price range as the GLC, which even in base form is a more polished crossover.

Overall

At the end of the day, is the GLC worth paying the extra $6000? Absolutely. It’s not just the perception of going upscale with a compact crossover rather than subcompact, which shouldn’t be a primary motivational factor when car shopping, but it’s the extra practicality, better performance, and interior comfort that makes owning the GLC worth it, especially if you have a growing family. The refinement and overall quality is going to ease any buyers remorse after passing on the GLA, and we believe is the better long term buying decision if you are cross shopping both vehicles. Whichever you choose, Mercedes Benz will still impress in both segments when it comes to optional packages, features, and technology and should be at the op of your list of considerations when looking for a subcompact or compact crossover.

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2021 Mercedes Benz GLA Review – Start Up, Revs, Walk Around and Test Drive

2020 Mercedes Benz GLB Review – Walk Around and Test Drive

2021 Mercedes Benz GLC Review – Start Up, Revs, Walk Around, and Test Drive

The post Why You Should Buy A 2021 Mercedes Benz GLC Instead of a GLA appeared first on Boston Auto Blog.

Subcompact crossovers are a dime a dozen, and so common in fact, that they’re replacing small sedans and hatchbacks in the price range between $20k – $30k. However, consumers have had a love/hate relationship with these vehicles as they’re practical and affordable, but often fall short in comfort, styling, driving dynamics, and technology. Despite many of these aspects beginning to trickle down to more affordable segments, sub compact crossovers are still lacking in many areas these leaves much more to be desired. The Mazda CX-30 is here to change all that, with an aggressive road presence, upscale interior, a more than adequate amount of performance, and a price tag that suits the lives of everyday Americans. So here are 5 reasons why you should buy a 2021 Mazda CX-30.

5) Versatility

Starting off at number 5 is the versatility and year round drivability that the Mazda CX-30 provides, especially for consumers who are a bit more adventurous or need a capable crossover to take on the winter. It’s become a preconceived notion that the CX-30 is really just a lifted Mazda3 hatchback, and whether there’s any truth to that or not, this subcompact crossover is going to be more suitable for the tinmes you go off-road or encounter snowy conditions, and that’s really due in part to the CX-30’s 7 inches of ground clearance in conjunction with the optional AWD system.

It’s no secret or surprise that Americans are gravitating towards crossovers because of the perception that they’re more practical and capable. With rivals such as the Subaru Crosstrek, Kia Seltos, and Chevy Trailblazer all appealing to buyers with a more active lifestyle, the CX-30 fits right in, but where it differentiates itself will lead us to the 4th reason why this sub compact crossover should be the newest addition to your driveway.

4) Interior Refinement

Often lacking in this price range and segment is interior refinement and an entry level luxury feel, as most manufacturers cut corners in quality, resulting in cheaper materials and a lack of soft touch padding. The Mazda CX-30 Premium bucks this trend, by captivating you with a comfortable two-toned leather trimmed cabin, that includes heated leather seats for both the driver and passenger, a leather stitched dashboard, and an adjustable leather center armrest. Controversial by some journalists, the gloss black trim pieces add a nice contrast while also providing a more upscale design, despite being very difficult to keep clean. The CX-30’s refinement when compared to many rivals in this segment isn’t just exclusive to comfort, as technology also impresses for a vehicle priced around $30k.

Once you step inside you’re greeted by a digital display in the center of your analogue gauges, which provides fuel efficiency numbers such as estimated range, and while this screen is very minimalistic, quality and resolution is what you’d expect in a Lexus or Acura. Not common for a sub compact crossover is a head up display, with traffic sign recognition, and blindspot detection to help keep your eyes on the road, rather than looking down at the gauge cluster. Also helping you stay focused on the road ahead, the 8.8 inch screen that pairs up well with the rotary dial, touchpad, and quick access buttons is placed closer to eye level and once you get acclimated with this user interface, rarely will you be looking down at the center console to find the right button to choose. Arguably the interior layout of the CX-30 is remisceient to what we see in current BMW models and older Audi’s, adding to the luxury appeal, but from a design perspective is certainly more simplistic.

3) Driving and Handling

Subcompact crossovers are notorious for their numb, boring, and uninspiring driving dynamics that usually bring a negative connotation to this segment. The Mazda CX-30 for what it is, differs in that regard and feels more planted and car like than competitors. Without a sports tuned suspension you’re obviously going to feel body roll and it won’t necessarily hug the road, but steering input gives you confidence when traveling on winding backroads. Working in it’s favor, the CX-30 is built on the same platform as the Mazda3 hatchback and you feel it, as there’s a firmness to the steering that we just don’t see with vehicles in this segment. It should also be noted that during our time with this sub compact crossover, driving was actually quite enjoyable even after a 2 hour cruise making this vehicle suitable for road trips when you want to getaway from the city.

2) Performance

Where Mazda stands out among a sea of cookie cutter competitors is the standard performance you’ll receive whether you spend $22k for a Select or $31k for a Premium, Under the hood the CX-30 is powered by a 2.5 liter 4 cylinder engine that puts out 186 hp and 186 lb ft of torque and is paired with a 6-Speed automatic transmission. By no means is this impressive, however it’s one of the more powerful options available in this class, as it’s common for sub compact crossovers to range anywhere from 150-170 hp. Also when factoring in the transmission, brands such as Toyota and Honda use a CVT which has been subject to criticism by both consumers and enthusiasts alike, whereas as Mazda has a conventional automatic that might not be the best on the market, but certainly inspires more excitement behind the wheel. For the 2021 model year, Mazda will take things one step further by dropping a turbo under the hood to give us an eye opening 250 hp and 320 lb ft of torque to outperform every vehicle in this segment.

It wouldn’t be far fetched to say that this will be a game change for the entire automotive industry, as the CX-30 sets the bar higher for this class. Depending on what you’re priorities are, whether you prefer comfort and affordability or performance and entry level luxury, we recommend waiting for the turbo to arrive as the horsepower to price ration will certainly make this sub compact crossover very appealing.

1) Value For The Price

And finally at number 1 is the value for the price you receive by going with the Mazda CX-30, specifically the Premium trim which comes in just under $31k. While it’s not the most spacious or practical, it surprises and impresses in other ways that to us makes the CX-30 the gold standard of the sub compact crossover segment. For buyers on a budget who don’t necessarily need a compact crossover and just desire a taste of luxury, good performance, versatility, and enough cargo space for groceries and daily tasks, the CX-30 checks off all those boxes. To find the amount of refinement and comfort you experience when you step inside, you’ll likely be paying $5k – $10k more by going with an Audi Q3 or BMW X2 because competitors such as Honda, Toyota, and Chevy just aren’t going to match what Mazda is providing.

Then when you take into account the performance, not only for current CX-30 models but also the turbo that will be arriving soon, it becomes more difficult to find a worthy rival. To us, Mazda found a way to package everything consumers want while also retaining a price tag around $30k, and that’s why if you’re in the market for a sub compact crossover, we highly recommend at least test driving one for yourself because it will surely impress the minute you leave the dealer.

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