2023 Mazda CX-30 vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a testament to Jeep's ability to blend elegance with functionality. Its extended body, 29 centimetres longer than the standard two-row Grand Cherokee, seamlessly integrated third-row seating without compromising its iconic Jeep aesthetic. The elongated wheelbase provided additional legroom for second-row passengers, and the wider rear doors enhanced accessibility. The Grand Cherokee L's design was both modern and classic, with its seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches, complemented by slimmer, brighter lighting. The interior was luxurious, featuring high-resolution screens, real wood, and Palermo leather, reminiscent of a Mercedes in style and quality.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered a more compact and artful design, albeit with some controversial elements. Its long hood and stubby rear end gave it a nose-heavy appearance, accentuated by excessive grey body cladding. Inside, the CX-30 boasted an upscale cabin with quality materials, including leather upholstery in higher trims. The GT Turbo model featured a tasteful combination of off-white leather and chocolate brown accents, creating an entry-level luxury feel. However, the lack of legroom in the rear and the absence of underfloor storage space in the cargo area were notable drawbacks.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered two engine options: a 3.6-litre 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, struggled with the vehicle's weight, especially when fully loaded. The V8, available on higher trims, delivered a more robust 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, providing a more satisfying driving experience. The Grand Cherokee L's fuel efficiency was decent with the V6, rated at 13.0 L/100 km in the city and 9.4 on the highway. The V8 was less efficient, with ratings of 16.7 L/100 km city and 10.9 highway. The vehicle's chassis and optional air suspension offered a stellar ride, with five ride height settings for various terrains.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 featured three powertrains, with the base GX trim housing a 2.0-litre engine producing 155 horsepower. The GS and GT models had a 2.5-litre engine with 191 horsepower, while the GT Turbo boasted a turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, delivering up to 250 horsepower on premium fuel. The CX-30's fuel economy improved to 8.2 L/100 km combined. The GT Turbo provided robust acceleration, but the small 48-litre fuel tank limited its range. The CX-30 excelled on twisty roads, thanks to its G-Vectoring Control Plus and excellent steering, though its suspension struggled with speed bumps and humps.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's Uconnect 5 infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical switches for climate and stereo controls. The vehicle offered ample space in all rows, with captain's chairs standard in the second row. However, the air vents were insufficient, requiring the fan to be on high, which was noisy. The Grand Cherokee L's interior was spacious, with a panoramic roof and numerous USB ports, though some legibility issues were noted with the touchscreen graphics.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 provided standard dual-zone climate control and a power-adjustable driver's seat. However, the front passenger seat lacked adjustability, and rear legroom was tight. Storage space was reasonable, with various bins and compartments. The CX-30's cargo space was limited, with 572 litres available with the seats up and 1,280 litres with them folded. The GT and GT Turbo trims included paddle shifters and a power liftgate, though the latter was deemed unnecessary.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered advanced features on upper trims, such as massage modes for the front seats, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The Summit trims added automatic parking and a rear-facing camera. The Uconnect system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a McIntosh audio system available on the Summit Reserve.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30's Mazda Connect infotainment system had notable flaws, including the absence of a touchscreen and conversational voice recognition. The system required frequent glances away from the road, and the lack of a tuning knob was inconvenient. Despite these issues, the system featured Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The GT Turbo added a navigation system and a 14-speaker Bose sound system.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by major safety organizations. It came standard with driver and passenger knee airbags, trailer sway control, and various driver aids.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, thanks to improved side-impact protection and additional safety features. The GX trim included blind spot monitoring, while the GS added adaptive cruise control and other driver aids. The GT and GT Turbo offered advanced features like a surround-view camera and traffic jam assist. The CX-30's safety systems worked well, though the forward-collision warning was overly sensitive.