2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2021 Mazda CX-30

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo was a striking vehicle, especially for those with a penchant for black accents. Its shiny black 18-inch wheels, grille, side mirror housings, and matte black body cladding gave it a bold, distinctive look. Mazda's design philosophy aimed to create a light and agile appearance, making the CX-30 seem as if it was floating over its wheels. This design choice set it apart from the Mazda3 hatchback, on which it was based, by giving it a higher stance both visually and physically. Inside, the CX-30's cabin mirrored the Mazda3's, featuring quality materials and a sophisticated vibe with stitched chocolate brown surfaces. The interior changes were subtle, with chrome accents and a frameless rearview mirror, while black or white leather was standard with the GT trim.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was an elegant and recognizable Jeep from any angle. Its design incorporated the classic seven-slot grille, U-shaped wheel arches, and a blunt front end, modernized with slimmer, brighter lighting. The Grand Cherokee L's extended body seamlessly integrated the third-row seating, making it appear as though the standard Grand Cherokee was missing a piece. The interior was luxurious, with high-end materials like real wood, aluminum, and Palermo leather. The dual high-resolution screens and thoughtful layout made it feel like a premium vehicle. Even in all-black, the interior offered enough detail and contrast to keep passengers comfortable and visually engaged.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo featured a turbocharged Skyactiv 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing between 227 and 250 horsepower depending on the fuel's octane rating. Torque was impressive, measuring 310 lb-ft at 2,000 rpm or 320 lb-ft at 2,500 rpm. This powertrain, combined with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard i-Activ AWD, provided effortless acceleration. The CX-30 Turbo's fuel efficiency was rated at 9.3 L/100 km in combined driving, with a real-world average of 9.6 L/100 km. The vehicle's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology and AWD system actively distributed power to enhance driving dynamics, although the added height and weight compared to the Mazda3 made it less agile. The CX-30 Turbo's Off-Road mode and extra ground clearance made it capable in dirt or snow, but its on-road performance was more refined and sophisticated.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered two engine options: a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 and a 5.7-litre V8, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6, producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, felt underpowered for the vehicle's size, especially when fully loaded. The V8, available on higher trims, delivered 357 hp and 390 lb-ft, providing a more satisfying driving experience. The V6's fuel efficiency was rated at 13.0 L/100 km city, 9.4 highway, and 11.3 combined, while the V8 was less efficient. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis was a standout feature, offering excellent ride composure and steering feel. The optional air suspension provided adjustable ride heights and enhanced off-road capability, making it a versatile choice for various terrains.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo offered a comfortable and driver-focused interior with eight-way manual adjustment for the driver's seat. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard on higher trims, though ventilated seats were not available. The cabin's design emphasized spaciousness and quality materials, but rear-seat space was limited for adults. The CX-30 Turbo provided 572 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,280 litres with the rear seats folded. However, the location of the optional wireless smartphone charger in the centre console limited storage options.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a sleek interface and physical switches for essential controls. The Laredo and Altitude trims had an 8.4-inch touchscreen, while higher trims offered a 10.1-inch display. The Grand Cherokee L provided ample space in all rows, with captain's chairs standard in the second row. A panoramic roof and multiple USB ports enhanced passenger comfort, though the air vents were less effective. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was designed for long journeys, offering a spacious and comfortable environment for all occupants.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo's infotainment system featured an 8.8-inch display controlled via physical controls and voice commands. While the system required acclimation, it offered standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GT trim added SiriusXM, navigation, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system, enhancing the audio experience. The Active Driving Display projected useful data onto the windshield, improving safety and convenience.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered advanced technology features, including massage modes for the front seats, a head-up display, night vision, and a 360-degree camera system. Adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and other driver aids were standard. The Summit trims included additional features like automatic parking and traffic sign recognition. The McIntosh audio system on the Summit Reserve provided a premium sound experience, while lower trims had simpler audio setups.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating. It came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features and ADAS, including an adaptive front lighting system and parking sensors on the GT trim.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time. It included standard driver and passenger knee airbags, trailer sway control, and various driver aids.