2020 Mazda CX-30 vs 2021 Volvo XC40

The 2020 Mazda CX-30 had a design that was both praised and critiqued. While its overall styling was considered attractive, the excessive gray plastic cladding around its lower perimeter detracted from its appeal, making the 18-inch wheels appear undersized. This design choice gave the CX-30 a somewhat awkward stance, as if it were perpetually elevated on a lift. Despite this, the interior was lauded for its luxurious feel, especially above the cabin's midpoint, where soft-touch materials were prevalent. However, below this line, hard plastics were more common, which was expected given the vehicle's price point.

In contrast, the 2021 Volvo XC40 boasted a more traditional SUV design, aligning well with Volvo's lineup through features like the "Thor’s Hammer" LED headlights and a simple oval grille. The XC40 Recharge variant distinguished itself with a blanked-off grille and unique styling elements, such as a gloss black roof and model-specific wheels. The interior was minimalist yet premium, featuring high-quality materials like Nappa leather and Nubuck textile. The design was cohesive, with elements like the portrait-oriented touchscreen seamlessly integrated into the cabin's aesthetic.

The 2020 Mazda CX-30 was powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, delivering 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. Despite its competitive power figures, the CX-30's weight of 3,408 pounds and lack of a turbocharged engine option limited its performance, especially at higher altitudes. The 6-speed sport automatic transmission, however, was praised for its ability to maximize the engine's output, and the optional AWD system added off-road traction assist. The CX-30's driving dynamics were generally well-regarded, though its higher center of gravity and torsion beam axle rear suspension affected handling on uneven roads. Fuel economy was a concern, with real-world testing yielding only 23.9 mpg, below the EPA's 27 mpg estimate.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered a diverse powertrain lineup, with the electric Recharge model at the top. The gasoline variants featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, with the T4 producing 187 horsepower and the T5 delivering 248 horsepower. The Recharge model, sharing its powertrain with the Polestar 2, boasted 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds. The XC40 emphasized luxury and comfort over performance, with excellent ride quality even on rough roads. The Recharge model also offered one-pedal driving and a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds, adding to its versatility.

The 2020 Mazda CX-30 offered benefits like higher ground clearance and easier entry and exit compared to the Mazda3. Inside, the cabin was upscale and comfortable, though the rear seat was cramped with limited legroom, making it more suitable for children or shorter adults. Cargo space was also limited, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 45.2 cubic feet with them folded, placing it closer to the subcompact segment.

The 2021 Volvo XC40, both in its gasoline and Recharge variants, provided clever storage solutions despite its limited interior space. While it had less legroom and headroom compared to competitors like the Tesla Model Y, Volvo compensated with features like a removable trash bin in the center console and large door bins. The XC40's cargo area was smaller than rivals, but thoughtful design elements helped maximize utility.

The 2020 Mazda CX-30's technology suite was functional but not particularly intuitive. The 8.8-inch display was not a touchscreen, requiring drivers to use console controls, steering wheel buttons, or voice commands, which could be cumbersome. Standard features included Bluetooth, HD Radio, and Mazda Connected Services, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available from the Select trim. Higher trims offered a Bose premium sound system and a head-up display.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge introduced the Android Automotive OS, featuring Google apps like Google Assistant and Google Maps. The system included a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, with OTA update capability for software-controlled vehicle functions. The Recharge model also eliminated the start button, allowing drivers to simply shift out of park to start driving. Traditional connectivity options like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were still available.

The 2020 Mazda CX-30 excelled in safety, with a comprehensive suite of standard ADAS features and top crash-test ratings. It included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance, among others. The CX-30 received a 5-star rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from IIHS with Premium trim.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 also prioritized safety, earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA for the gasoline model. The XC40 came with a robust list of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist and blind-spot monitoring. The Recharge model featured Volvo's latest sensor suite, scalable for future driver aid advancements.