2021 BMW X7 vs 2020 Mazda CX-30

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 impression of the vehicle being perpetually elevated, as if on a service 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. The CX-30's pricing started at $21,900, with various trims offering additional features and upgrades, such as the Premium AWD model tested, which totaled $32,120.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW X7 was noted for its superior interior quality and significant visual presence. It was considered more prestigious than its competitors, such as the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. The X7's styling was characterized by its massive grille, which, while controversial, was deemed appropriate for the SUV's size. Inside, the X7 shared many design elements with the X5, offering high-tech features and high-quality materials. The test vehicle, an X7 xDrive40i, was equipped with luxurious features like premium leather, a suede headliner, and glass interior controls, resulting in a price of $91,745. The X7's design successfully combined traditional BMW cues with modern luxury, making it a standout in its class.

The 2020 Mazda CX-30 was powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, delivering 186 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 186 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. 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, with paddle shifters included in the Premium trim. The CX-30 offered 8 inches of ground clearance, making it suitable for light off-roading. While its driving dynamics were not as sharp as the Mazda3, the CX-30 was still considered one of the better performers in its class, with responsive steering and braking. Fuel economy was a downside, with an observed average of 23.9 mpg, below the EPA's 27 mpg estimate.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and BMW's xDrive AWD system. The addition of eBoost mild-hybrid technology aimed to improve fuel efficiency, though EPA ratings showed a slight decrease to 21 mpg combined. The X7's performance was impressive, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds. Despite its size and weight, the X7 offered a smooth and serene ride, aided by features like the Dynamic Handling Package and Active Comfort Drive system. However, its handling was sometimes compromised by excessive body motions, particularly on winding roads. The X7's braking system, part of the Dynamic Handling Package, was effective in managing the SUV's substantial weight.

The 2020 Mazda CX-30 offered ease of entry and exit due to its higher ground clearance. Inside, the cabin was elegant and upscale, with soft padding on key touchpoints. The driving position was excellent, with large analog gauges for easy reference. Seating options varied by trim, with genuine leather available in the Premium trim. 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 the CX-30 closer to the subcompact segment.

The 2021 BMW X7's interior was described as decadent, with features like heated and ventilated seats, premium leather upholstery, and a five-zone climate control system. Front-seat comfort was outstanding, and the second-row captain's chairs were equally comfortable, though access could be challenging due to the long rear doors. The third-row seat was surprisingly accommodating for adults, with power adjustments for easy access. Cargo space was modest behind the third row but expanded to 48.6 cubic feet with the seats folded, and 90.4 cubic feet with the second row down, though these figures were not class-leading.

The 2020 Mazda CX-30's technology package was functional but not overly advanced. It featured an 8.8-inch display integrated into the dashboard, controlled via a center console, steering wheel, and voice commands. While the system was designed to minimize driver distraction, it was not always intuitive. Standard features included Bluetooth, HD Radio, and Mazda Connected Services, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available on higher trims. The Premium trim added a 12-speaker Bose sound system and a head-up display.

In the 2021 BMW X7, technology was a highlight, with the Live Cockpit Professional digital instrumentation and iDrive 7.0 infotainment system, both using 12.3-inch displays. The system included navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, along with enhanced SiriusXM and Connected Package Pro. Features like wireless charging, natural voice recognition, and gesture control were also included, though the latter was sometimes inconsistent. The head-up display was a useful addition, though visibility could be an issue with polarized sunglasses.

The 2020 Mazda CX-30 excelled in safety, with a comprehensive suite of standard ADAS features, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The CX-30 received a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS with Premium trim. Additional safety features were available on higher trims, enhancing the vehicle's safety credentials.

The 2021 BMW X7 came equipped with a full array of safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package and Parking Assistance Package. These included advanced systems like evasive-steering assist and traffic-jam assist. The X7's ADAS was praised for its effectiveness, though some minor issues were noted in specific driving scenarios. Overall, the X7's safety technology was impressive and contributed to a stress-free driving experience.