2021 Mazda CX-30 vs 2022 Toyota Venza

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo was a striking vehicle, especially for those with a penchant for black accents. It featured exclusive shiny black 18-inch wheels, a glossy black grille, and side mirror housings, complemented by thick matte black body cladding. This design choice gave the CX-30 Turbo a unique floating appearance, as if it was perpetually in motion, cresting a hill with its suspension fully extended. This styling set it apart from the Mazda3 hatchback, on which it was based, offering a higher ground clearance and a distinct presence.

Inside, the CX-30's cabin mirrored the Mazda3's, boasting quality materials and a sophisticated design. The interior featured stitched chocolate brown surfaces, chrome accents, and a standard frameless rearview mirror, contributing to an upscale vibe. The GT trim, where the turbocharged engine became available, came with standard black or white leather. The pricing for the 2021 CX-30 ranged from an MSRP of $24,700 to $36,400, with our test vehicle priced at $38,827, including fees.

The 2022 Toyota Venza re-emerged with a modern design, riding on the TGNA-K platform, shared with several other Toyota and Lexus models. Its dimensions placed it at the shorter end of the midsize crossover SUV segment, but its proportions and design were impressive. The Venza's exterior featured a deeply scalloped body side, a distinctive tailgate with LED lighting, and a prominent nose, making it more suited for urban environments than off-road adventures. Standard 18-inch alloy wheels completed its look.

Inside, the Venza offered a Lexus-like interior with high-quality materials and an elegant layout. The dashboard took advantage of a steep windshield, and the placement of the touchscreen display was optimal. The front seats were supportive and comfortable, while the rear seats could accommodate three adults with ease. The Venza's interior was designed for comfort and convenience, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo was equipped with a turbocharged Skyactiv 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing between 227 and 250 horsepower, depending on the fuel's octane rating. It delivered 310 to 320 lb-ft of torque, ensuring effortless acceleration. The CX-30 Turbo featured a six-speed automatic transmission, standard i-Activ AWD, and G-Vectoring Control Plus technology. Its fuel efficiency was rated at 9.3 L/100 km in combined driving, with a driving range of approximately 500 kilometres.

Mazda focused on delivering a refined driving experience, emphasizing power and response over raw acceleration. The CX-30 Turbo's i-Activ AWD system actively distributed power to the rear wheels, enhancing traction and handling. While it didn't handle as sharply as the Mazda3 due to its added height and weight, the CX-30 Turbo offered a confident ride, especially in off-road conditions with its Off-Road mode.

The 2022 Toyota Venza featured a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, producing a combined 219 horsepower. Its hybrid powertrain balanced electric and gas drive for optimal efficiency, with electric motors at the rear axle providing AWD capability. The Venza offered EV operation for short distances and various drive modes to suit different driving conditions. Regenerative braking helped recharge the lithium-ion battery, contributing to its efficiency.

The Venza delivered a smooth and agile driving experience, with a wheelbase shared with the Camry, making it maneuverable. While not designed for aggressive cornering, it provided a comfortable ride for family travel. The hybrid system's transparency and lack of charging requirements made it a practical choice for those without access to charging infrastructure.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo offered a comfortable and driver-focused interior, with eight-way manual adjustment for the driver's seat and heated front seats as standard. However, ventilated seats were not available, and the front passenger seat lacked the same range of adjustment. The cabin's design contributed to a sense of spaciousness, but rear-seat accommodations were cramped for adults. The CX-30 Turbo provided 572 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,280 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Toyota Venza accommodated five passengers with ample headroom and legroom in both rows. The second row offered 114.8 cm of hip room, making it comfortable for three adults. The cabin featured convenience elements like an overhead console, power-adjustable front seats, and an electric parking brake. The Venza's cargo capacity was 816 litres behind the second row, expanding to 1,560 litres with the seats folded. Toyota focused on creating a quiet and serene cabin environment, using sound-blocking materials throughout.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo featured an 8.8-inch infotainment display, operated via physical controls and voice commands. While it offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the system's complexity could be distracting. The GT trim added SiriusXM, navigation, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and an Active Driving Display, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Toyota Venza's hybrid system required no special attention, offering a seamless driving experience without charging concerns. It featured a Predicted Efficient Drive program to optimize battery charging. The Venza LE came with an eight-inch touchscreen, while the XLE and Limited trims added a 12.3-inch touchscreen, JBL audio, and a head-up display. Toyota Connected Services provided additional connectivity and safety features.

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 with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including an adaptive front lighting system and parking sensors.

The 2022 Toyota Venza included the Toyota Star Safety System and eight airbags. It featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering a range of driver aids, and received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and five stars from the NHTSA.