Cons: Some controls aren’t intuitive to operate; lack of stand-alone options[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 Volkswagen Passat drops its topline SEL model, and all models now have standard adaptive cruise control. Passat is VW’s midsize sedan. Its sole powertrain configuration is a 2.0-liter turbo paired with a 6-speeed automatic and front-wheel drive.
Forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot alert, rear cross-traffic alert, and LED headlights are standard. Additional available features include lane-departure warning and mitigation, keyless entry and starting, remote engine start, and park assist.
The Volkswagen Passat offers excellent passenger and cargo room in a very practical and comfortable package. In a class filled with excellent choices, the Passat follows a bit of a different path—one that helps it stand out from the crowd.[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][mk_content_box heading=”The Facts”][mk_table el_class=”new-review-specs”]
| Class | Midsize Car |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA |
| Base Prices | S: $24,990 SE: $27,990 R-Line: $30,990 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 174 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 24 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 36 |
Current Volkswagen Passat Review[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Honda Accord
Mazda 6
Toyota Camry[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”NHTSA Ratings” icon=”moon-signup” el_class=”ratings-box”][mk_skill_meter title=”Overall – 4″ percent=”80″][vc_column_text]
Cons: Ride quality isn’t up to previous Jetta standards; some safety features only available on top trim levels[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 Volkswagen Jetta has some equipment variations, but no other changes. The SE model gains a power driver seat and SEL, SEL Premium, and GLI Autobahn models get a new infotainment system.
The Volkswagen Jetta was redesigned on a new platform for 2019, gaining new technology features and slightly larger dimensions for improved interior space. Trim levels ascend through: entry-level S, popularly-equipped SE, sporty R-Line, SEL, and top-line SEL Premium. The performance-oriented GLI is available in S and Autobahn trims.
Jetta GLIs have sport suspension, unique trim, and are powered by a 228-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine mated to either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed automated-manual transmission. All other Jettas have a turbocharged 1.4-liter 4-cylinder rated at 147 horsepower. The S and R-Line models come standard with a 6-speed manual transmission; optional on S and R-Line, but standard on all other non-GLI models is an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Available features include forward-collision warning and mitigation, lane-keep assist, blind-spot alert, rear cross-traffic monitor, adaptive cruise control, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto functionality.
The mainline Volkswagen Jetta lost a bit of ride/handling refinement with its redesign for 2019, but it added interior space, slightly better fuel economy, new infotainment features, and very competitive prices—all traits that should appeal to the mainstream shoppers that VW is pursuing with this vehicle. The GLI has extra horsepower and a more sophisticated suspension that result in much sportier car that maintains the GLI’s performance reputation.[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][mk_content_box heading=”The Facts”][mk_table el_class=”new-review-specs”]
| Class | Compact Car |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door sedan |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen |
| Nation of Manufacture | Mexico |
| Base Prices | 1.4T S: $19,815 1.4T SE: $23,860 1.4T R-Line: $23,615 1.4T SEL: $26,415 1.4T SEL Premium: $28,865 GLI S: $27,460 GLI Autobahn: $30,865 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 1.4-liter 4-cylinder (S, SE, R-Line, SEL, SEL Premium) |
| Horsepower 147 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed manual |
| Avail. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 29-30 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 39-41 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder (GLI S, GLI Autobahn) |
| Horsepower 228 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed manual |
| Avail. Transmission 7-speed automated-manual |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 24 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 33-35 |
Quick Spin: 2020 Volkswagen Jetta SEL Premium
Current Volkswagen Jetta Review[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Honda Civic
Nissan Versa
Toyota Corolla[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”NHTSA Ratings” icon=”moon-signup” el_class=”ratings-box”][mk_skill_meter title=”Overall – 5″ percent=”100″][vc_column_text]
Cons: Acceleration not as peppy as most EVs; non-intuitive infotainment system; annoyingly quirky controls[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: Volkswagen enters the electric-vehicle market in earnest for 2021 with the introduction of the ID.4—VW’s first purpose-built, regular-production EV. (The 2015-2019 VW e-Golf was based on a conventional gasoline-engine Golf and wasn’t widely marketed.) The ID.4 is compact crossover SUV that offers about the same amount of passenger space as the Volkswagen Tiguan compact SUV, despite being 4.6 inches shorter overall than the Tiguan. Initially, the ID.4 is only offered in rear-wheel-drive form, with a 201-horsepower electric motor. Due later in the year is an all-wheel-drive version with a second motor powering the front wheels, with total horsepower expected to be around 300. The base Pro model has an estimated range of 260 miles, while the First Edition and Pro S models are estimated to travel 250 miles. VW says the ID.4’s battery can be charged from five to 80 percent in 39 minutes at a public DC fast-charging station. The ID.4 includes three years of charging at Volkswagen’s Electrify America charging stations and buyers may qualify for up to $7500 in federal tax credit. Unlike many electric vehicles, there is no “frunk” (front trunk) storage area under the hood, but cargo room is more than respectable overall: 30.3 cubic feet behind the back seat, or 64.2 cubic feet with the rear seatbacks folded. Standard safety features include autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot alert with mitigation, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, rear cross-traffic alert, road sign display, and automatic high-beam headlights. The ID.4 is a compelling EV that offers a more conventional look and driving feel than the sporty, aggressively styled Ford Mustang Mach E, and at slightly lower prices. Driving range is competitive, though not as generous as properly equipped Mach Es. Despite its practical, everyday-driver dimensions and passenger/cargo capacity, the ID.4 is plagued by a number of unconventional controls that demand acclimation—and might be a continual source of frustration for some drivers. Still, VW’s first dedicated EV shows a lot of potential.[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][mk_content_box heading=”The Facts”][mk_table el_class=”new-review-specs”]
| Class | Compact SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen |
| Nation of Manufacture | Germany |
| Base Prices | Pro: $41,190 AWD Pro: $44,870 First Edition: $45,190 Pro S: $45,690 AWD Pro S: $49,370 |
| Base Engine electric motor |
| Horsepower 201 |
| Std. Transmission single-speed |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (MPGe) 104 |
| EPA Hwy Range (MPGe) 89 |
Guide to Electric Vehicle Charging
Current Volkswagen ID.4 Review[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Chevrolet Bolt EV
Ford Mustang Mach-E
Nissan LEAF[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”NHTSA Ratings” icon=”moon-signup” el_class=”ratings-box”][mk_skill_meter title=”Overall – NA” percent=”0″][vc_column_text]
Cons: Disappointing fuel economy; hefty exterior dimensions for a 5-passenger midsize SUV[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport has a new infotainment system and a couple of new driver-assistance features. Travel Assist uses adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist to steer and accelerate the vehicle within a lane, however it requires the driver to pay attention and keep his/her hands on the wheel. Emergency Assist will stop the vehicle if it senses that the driver is incapacitated. Volkswagen added a new 5-passenger midsize SUV to its lineup for 2020. The Atlas Cross Sport is a two-row version of VW’s three-row Atlas midsize crossover SUV, which debuted as a 2018 model. Although the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport share the same wheelbase, the Cross Sport is 5.2 inches shorter in overall length and 2.2 inches lower; it also has a sloping rear roofline that gives it a sportier look. Both Atlases have the same powertrains: a 235-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder and a 276-hp 3.6-liter V6. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Unlike the Atlas, which only offers front-wheel with the 4-cylinder, the Cross Sport has a choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive with both engines. Available safety features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, blind-spot alert, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic post-collision braking, and lane-keep assist. Other available features include park assist, automatic high-beam headlights, hands-free power liftgate, panoramic sunroof, overhead-camera view, and LED headlights. Like Honda did when it created the two-row Passport from its three-row Pilot SUV, Volkswagen has taken the quick route to fielding a new 5-passenger midsize SUV. The Atlas Cross Sport shares the pleasant driving manners, well-finished interior, and generous passenger room of the Atlas, but adds a sportier look. The Cross Sport gets even better second-row legroom in the bargain, but you’ll of course lose the benefits of the regular Atlas’s extra cargo room and third seating row. And, the Cross Sport isn’t that much more affordable than its three-row sibling.[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][mk_content_box heading=”The Facts”][mk_table el_class=”new-review-specs”]
| Class | Midsize SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | Front-wheel drive, All-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA |
| Base Prices | S 4-cyl: $32,050 AWD S 4-cyl: $33,950 SE 4-cyl: $35,400 AWD SE 4-cyl: $37,300 SE w/Technology 4-cyl: $37,440 AWD SE w/Technology 4-cyl: $39,340 SE w/Technology V6: $38,840 AWD SE w/Technology V6: $41,290 SE w/Technology R-Line V6: $40,240 AWD SE w/Technology R-Line V6: $42,690 AWD SEL 4-cyl: $42,920 SEL V6: $42,820 AWD SEL V6: $44,720 SEL R-Line V6: $44,520 AWD SEL R-Line V6: $46,420 AWD SEL Premium 4-cyl: $47,720 AWD SEL Premium V6: $49,520 AWD SEL Premium R-Line V6: $51,220 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 235 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 20-21 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 24 |
| Optional Engine 3.6-liter V6 |
| Horsepower 276 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 16-18 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 22-23 |
2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Review
Current Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Review[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Chevrolet Blazer
Honda Passport
Kia Telluride[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”NHTSA Ratings” icon=”moon-signup” el_class=”ratings-box”][mk_skill_meter title=”Overall – 5″ percent=”100″][vc_column_text]
Cons: Plus-size dimensions can make close-quarters parking a chore; mediocre fuel economy with V6 engine[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas has revised styling and wider availability of its turbo four. Up front there is a new front fascia and a new bumper in the rear. Inside there is a new steering wheel and other detail changes. The base 4-cylinder engine is now available on topline models and with all-wheel drive. Previously, all-wheel drive required the V6 engine. Volkswagen introduced the Atlas midsize crossover SUV for 2018. It is one of the largest vehicles VW has ever sold in the U.S.; it’s bigger than most every midsize-SUV rival, and almost 10 inches longer than Volkswagen’s previous midsize SUV: the pricey, upscale Touareg. Despite its larger size, the Atlas is priced significantly cheaper than the Touareg; its price range puts it right in the heart of the midsize crossover market. The Atlas has three rows of seating for up to seven passengers with the standard second-row bench seat, or six with the available second-row captain’s chairs. (There is also a two-row Atlas Cross Sport that is based on the Atlas, but is 5.7 inches shorter and has a sloping rear roof line [see separate report].) The base engine is a 235-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder and the step-up engine is a 276-horsepower 3.6-liter V6. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and are available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Available safety features include autonomous emergency braking, pedestrian detection, blind-spot alert, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic post-collision braking, and lane-keep assist. Other available features include adaptive cruise control, park assist, automatic high-beam headlights, hands-free power liftgate, panoramic sunroof, overhead-camera view, and LED headlights. The Atlas’s cavernous interior provides generous passenger and cargo room, and the cabin is finished in VW’s typical classy, understated fashion—especially in the top-line SEL models. A pleasant driving personality; satisfying acceleration from the V6 engine; and a responsive, feature-rich infotainment system are other assets. Fuel economy with the V6 engine is a bit disappointing, but the Atlas’s space, performance, and European style should make it a viable alternative to rivals such as the Honda Pilot and Chevrolet Traverse.[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][mk_content_box heading=”The Facts”][mk_table el_class=”new-review-specs”]
| Class | Midsize SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 7 |
| Drive Wheels | Front-wheel drive, All-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA |
| Base Prices | S 2.0T: $32,565 AWD S 2.0T: $34,465 SE 2.0T: $35,915 AWD SE 2.0T: $37,815 SE w/Tech 2.0T: $37,915 AWD SE w/Tech 2.0T: $39,815 SE w/Tech 3.6L: $39,315 AWD w/Tech 3.6L: $41,215 SE w/Tech R-Line 3.6L: $40,715 AWD SE w/Tech R-Line 3.6L: $42,615 AWD SEL 2.0T: $43,415 SEL 3.6L: $43,315 AWD SEL 3.6L: $45,215 AWD SEL Premium 2.0T: $48,215 AWD SEL Premium 3.6L: $50,015 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder (2.0T) |
| Horsepower 235 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 20-21 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 24 |
| Optional Engine 3.6-liter V6 (3.6L) |
| Horsepower 276 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 16-17 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 22-23 |
Test Drive: 2021 Volkswagen Atlas V6 SEL Premium
2020 Chicago Auto Show: 2021 Volkswagen Atlas
Current Volkswagen Atlas Review[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Chevrolet Traverse
Honda Pilot
Toyota Highlander[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”NHTSA Ratings” icon=”moon-signup” el_class=”ratings-box”][mk_skill_meter title=”Overall – 5″ percent=”100″][vc_column_text]
Cons: Only one engine available; more expensive than similar Passat[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 Volkswagen Arteon has revised styling inside and out, along with a new infotainment system. The Volkswagen Arteon is a premium midsize car which arrived for 2019 to replace VW’s stylish CC, which was discontinued after the 2017 model year. Unlike the CC, which had a traditional 4-door sedan layout, the Arteon is a 4-door hatchback sedan that offers a bit more cargo versatility. It’s is similar in size to VW’s mainstream Passat midsize sedan, but it has sleeker, flashier styling and notably higher price tags. The sole engine is turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that puts out 268 horsepower and is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is available. Available safety features include autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot alert, lane-keep assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. Unlike its CC predecessor, the Arteon doesn’t sacrifice rear-seat room for style. Although the Passat is a better value, Arteon offers the grace and feel of a premium sport sedan for less money.[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][mk_content_box heading=”The Facts”][mk_table el_class=”new-review-specs”]
| Class | Premium Midsize Car |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door hatchback |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen |
| Nation of Manufacture | Germany |
| Base Prices | SE: $38,190 SEL R-Line: $42,790 AWD SEL R-Line 4MOTION: $44,590 AWD SEL Premium R-Line 4MOTION: $48,190 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 268 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 20-22 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 31-32 |
Current Volkswagen Arteon Review[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Acura TLX
Audi A7
Lexus ES[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”NHTSA Ratings” icon=”moon-signup” el_class=”ratings-box”][mk_skill_meter title=”Overall – NA” percent=”0″][vc_column_text]
Cons: Tedious infotainment controls; stingy small-items storage space[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 Mazda CX-30 will gain an available 250-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine midyear. Also, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto functionality is now standard. Last year, Mazda added a new compact crossover SUV that fits in both size and price between the brand’s subcompact CX-3 and compact CX-5 crossovers. The Mazda CX-30 is five inches longer overall than the CX-3 and six inches shorter than the CX-5. Though it straddles the line between the subcompact and compact SUV classes, the CX-30 is just big enough that we categorize it as a compact SUV. As such, the CX-30 is one of the smaller compact crossovers, but it has decent interior space with significantly more passenger and cargo room than the CX-3. The CX-30 shares its base powertrain with the larger CX-5—a 186-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The previously mentioned 250-hp turbo 2.5-liter four is also available. Available safety features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go capability, blind-spot alert, lane-keep assist, and a driver-attention monitor. Other available features include keyless access, LED headlights, rain-sensing wipers, Wi-Fi hotspot, and head-up instrument display. The CX-30 is a fun-to-drive crossover with high-class interior trimmings, nimble handling, and a relatively zippy engine. Plus, its smaller-than-compact/bigger-than-subcompact size might be just right for many shoppers… and those smaller dimensions mean that the CX-30 is notably more affordable than its larger CX-5 sibling.[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][mk_content_box heading=”The Facts”][mk_table el_class=”new-review-specs”]
| Class | Compact SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Mazda |
| Nation of Manufacture | Mexico |
| Base Prices | Base: $23,000 AWD Base: $24,400 Select Package: $25,000 AWD Select Package: $27,190 Preferred Package: $27,400 AWD Preferred Package: $28,800 AWD Premium Package: $31,050 |
| Base Engine 2.5-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 186 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 24-25 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 31-33 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 250 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 22 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 30 |
Test Drive: 2020 Mazda CX-30 Premium
Current Mazda CX-30 Review[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Honda CR-V
Nissan Rogue
Subaru Forester[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”NHTSA Ratings” icon=”moon-signup” el_class=”ratings-box”][mk_skill_meter title=”Overall – 5″ percent=”100″][vc_column_text]
Cons: Less overall interior space than some three-row class rivals; top-line models are expensive[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 Mazda CX-9 gets a new infotainment system with a 10.25-inch screen. There is also a new Carbon Edition model with unique trim. Mazda’s midsized crossover SUV has three rows of seating for up to seven passengers. A 250-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission is the sole powertrain. With its small engine and light weight, CX-9’s fuel economy is among the best in the midsize-SUV class. CX-9 is available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Safety features include low-speed collision mitigation system, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane-departure warning, blind-spot alert, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keep assist. The CX-9 has a quiet, upscale cabin, along with engaging road manners for a midsize SUV. Although more spacious than the previous-generation, CX-9 is not quite as roomy as some competitors.[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][mk_content_box heading=”The Facts”][mk_table el_class=”new-review-specs”]
| Class | Midsize SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 7 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Mazda |
| Nation of Manufacture | Japan |
| Base Prices | Sport: $36,060 AWD Sport: $36,960 Touring: $36,850 AWD Touring: $38,750 Carbon Edition : $42,180 AWD Carbon Edition: $44,080 Grand Touring: $43,040 AWD Grand Touring: $44,940 AWD Signature: $47,705 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 250 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 20-22 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 26-28 |
Current Mazda CX-9 Review[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Chevrolet Traverse
Honda Pilot
Kia Telluride[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”NHTSA Ratings” icon=”moon-signup” el_class=”ratings-box”][mk_skill_meter title=”Overall – 5″ percent=”100″][vc_column_text]
Pros: Nimble handling; excellent road manners; responsive powertrain; upscale trimmings on high-end trim levels
Cons: Not as much cargo room as some competitors; some testers dislike console-mounted infotainment control knob[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 Mazda CX-5 gets a standard 10.25-inch control screen with a new generation of infotainment controls. There are also new Carbon Edition models. Mazda’s compact SUV was redesigned for 2017, gaining fresh styling and a host of new features on a stiffer, quieter structure. The base engine is Mazda’s 187-horsepower 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G 4-cylinder. Carbon Edition Turbo, Grand Touring Reserve, and Signature models have a 250-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. Both the base 2.5 and the turbo engine are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional. A heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, reclining rear seat backs, and a power liftgate are among the CX-5’s available comfort and convenience features. Available safety features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam headlights, rear cross-traffic alert, head-up instrument display, traffic-sign recognition, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality. The first-generation Mazda CX-5 has long been one of our favorite compact SUVs, and the second-generation model improved on it in every way. Some larger compact-SUV competitors are better at hauling cargo and some have more user-friendly infotainment systems, but the CX-5’s engaging driving personality, high-quality interior, and respectable fuel-economy numbers make it an excellent choice.[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][mk_content_box heading=”The Facts”][mk_table el_class=”new-review-specs”]
| Class | Compact SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Mazda |
| Nation of Manufacture | Japan |
| Base Prices | Sport: $26,370 AWD Sport: $27,770 Touring: $28,110 AWD Touring: $29,510 Carbon Edition: $29,955 AWD Carbon Edition: $33,555 Carbon Edition Turbo: $31,760 AWD Carbon Edition Turbo: $33,160 Grand Touring: $31,560 AWD Grand Touring: $32,960 AWD Grand Touring Reserve: $36,385 AWD Signature: $38,505 |
| Base Engine 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (Sport, Touring, Carbon Edition, Grand Touring) |
| Horsepower 187 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 24-25 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 30-31 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (Carbon Edition Turbo, Grand Touring Reserve, Signature) |
| Horsepower 250 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 22-23 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 27-28 |
Current Mazda CX-5 Review[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Chevrolet Equinox
Honda CR-V
Nissan Rogue[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”NHTSA Ratings” icon=”moon-signup” el_class=”ratings-box”][mk_skill_meter title=”Overall – 5″ percent=”100″][vc_column_text]
Cons: Cramped back seat; some complicated controls; top models get pricey[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][vc_column_text]CG Says: The 2021 Mazda 3 gains two new engine options. The new base engine is a 155-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder and a 250-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder is the new topline engine. The turbo includes all-wheel drive.
The Mazda 3 was redesigned for 2019, gaining fresh styling, new technology features, and the availability of all-wheel drive—a rare feature in the compact-car class. The 3 comes as a 4-door sedan or 4-door hatchback.
In addition to the previously mentioned 2.0-liter and 2.5-liter turbo, a 186-hp 2.5-liter 4-cylinder is also available. The standard transmission for all is a 6-speed automatic, but a 6-speed manual available on the front-wheel-drive hatchback with the naturally-aspirated 2.5-liter.
Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning and mitigation, and automatic high-beam headlights. Other available safety features include a driver-attention monitor and front cross-traffic alert. Other available features include a head-up instrument display and rain-sensing wipers.
The Mazda 3 aspires to move upmarket and succeeds, while keeping the sporty attitude that has been a Mazda 3 tradition. Prices are on the high end for the class, tight passenger space is a shortcoming, and rear visibility is iffy in the hatchback. However, the long list of available features, sporty-yet-polished driving demeanor, and available all-wheel drive make Mazda 3 a compelling choice.[/vc_column_text][mk_divider style=”padding_space” margin_top=”10″ margin_bottom=”10″][mk_content_box heading=”The Facts”][mk_table el_class=”new-review-specs”]
| Class | Compact Car |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door hatchback, 4-door sedan |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Mazda |
| Nation of Manufacture | Japan |
| Base Prices | 2.0 Base sedan: $21,445 2.5 S sedan: $22,445 2.5 S hatchback: $23,445 Select sedan: $23,645 AWD Select sedan: $25,045 Select hatchback: $24,645 AWD Select hatchback: $26,045 Preferred sedan: $25,295 AWD Preferred sedan: $27,290 Preferred hatchback: $26,295 AWD Preferred hatchback: $26,695 Premium sedan: $27,795 AWD Premium sedan: $29,195 Premium hatchback: $27,895 AWD Premium hatchback: $28,445 AWD 2.5 Turbo sedan: $30,845 AWD 2.5 Turbo hatchback: $31,845 AWD 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus sedan: $33,395 AWD 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus hatchback: $34,695 |
| Base Engine 2.0-liter 4-cylinder (2.0 Base sedan) |
| Horsepower 155 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 28 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 36 |
| Optional Engine 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (2.5 S, Select, Preferred, Premium) |
| Horsepower 186 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission 6-speed manual |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 24-26 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 31-35 |
| Optional Engine turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (2.5 Turbo, 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus) |
| Horsepower 250 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 23 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 31-32 |
Quick Spin: 2020 Mazda 3 Hatchback
Consumer Guide Car Stuff Podcast, Episode 81: Mazda 3
Current Mazda 3 Review[/vc_column_text][/mk_content_box][mk_content_box heading=”Also Consider”][vc_column_text]Honda Civic
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