2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer vs 2022 Mazda CX-30

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer presented a classic SUV aesthetic, sharing its frame and body shell with the standard Wagoneer. This resulted in a traditional design featuring a tall hood, broad shoulders, and trapezoidal wheel arches. The Grand Wagoneer distinguished itself with a standard black roof and unique hood, front fascia, and grille. The grille leaned forward slightly, adorned with laser-etched knurling, and the wheel centre caps were protected by acrylic glass. The vehicle's body-on-frame architecture allowed for independent suspension, and the use of aluminum and composite materials helped reduce weight. Inside, the Grand Wagoneer offered a luxurious experience with high-quality materials, 24-way power front seats, and Nappa leather upholstery, setting it apart from the standard Wagoneer.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30, on the other hand, was reminiscent of a downsized CX-5, with an upright grille and smooth fenders. Built on the Mazda3 platform, it resembled a raised-up version of the Mazda3 hatchback. The CX-30 featured a raked windshield, which could cause visual distortion for taller drivers. Inside, the cabin was quiet and comfortable, with a blend of conventional and digital displays. The infotainment screen was integrated into the dashboard, controlled by a rotary dial, which some found challenging to use. The CX-30 offered various trim levels, each adding features like heated seats, dual-zone climate control, and leather upholstery, with the GT grade providing a power liftgate and optional turbocharged engine.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer was powered by a 6.4-litre Hemi V8 engine, delivering 471 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, allowed the Grand Wagoneer to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in approximately six seconds. The vehicle featured standard four-wheel drive with the Quadra-Drive II system, offering five drive modes and a height-adjustable Quadra-Lift air suspension. With a maximum ground clearance of 25.4 cm, the Grand Wagoneer was capable of fording up to 60 cm of water. Despite its power, the Grand Wagoneer was best suited for a leisurely pace, as its size and weight made it feel ungainly at higher speeds.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 offered a range of engine options, starting with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 155 horsepower. The GS and GT trims featured a 2.5-litre engine with 186 horsepower, while the turbocharged version delivered up to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. The CX-30's six-speed automatic transmission and Sport mode provided lively performance, with quick and precise steering. However, the sporty suspension resulted in a rough ride over uneven surfaces. The CX-30's conventional shifter design and paddle shifters added to its performance credibility, making it a fun and engaging drive.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer accommodated seven passengers with standard captain’s chairs or eight with an optional bench seat. It offered more third-row headroom and second-row legroom than competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Cargo space was generous, with 775 litres available with all seats in place and 2,007 litres with the third row stowed. The Grand Wagoneer boasted a maximum towing capacity of 4,472 kg, slightly less than the standard Wagoneer due to its additional weight. Standard features included a sunroof, four-zone climate control, and ample storage bins, although forward visibility was somewhat limited.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 provided up to 1,280 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 572 litres with them in use. The GT grade featured a power rear liftgate for added convenience. The front seats had a sliding centre console cover, which could occasionally get stuck when the rear seats were folded. The rear seats offered decent headroom for short-to-medium trips, though taller passengers might find them cramped on longer journeys. Overall, the CX-30 provided a practical and comfortable interior for its class.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer came equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, dual touchscreens, and a McIntosh audio system. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a 4G-LTE Wi-Fi hotspot for up to eight devices. Second-row passengers had access to a 10.25-inch touchscreen, and an optional rear-seat entertainment system added two 10.1-inch screens. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system offered over-the-air updates, though some users found the screen response slow and the graphics plain.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 featured an elegant dash design with an infotainment screen integrated into the dashboard. Controlled by a rotary dial, the system lacked touch functionality, which some found frustrating. The setup was inspired by luxury-car systems like BMW's iDrive, but without the touch capability, it was less user-friendly. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were supported, though navigating them with the rotary dial could be cumbersome. Despite its challenges, the system offered a sleek and modern interface.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA. It included standard safety features like a 360-degree camera system, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included intersection collision assist, night vision, and driver-assistance systems. The Active Lane Management System combined adaptive cruise control with lane centring, with a hands-free version planned for future release.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 earned top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, with a five-star rating and Top Safety Pick+ designation, respectively. Available safety features included forward collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Standard features included rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The CX-30's adaptive front headlights and 360-degree parking camera added to its safety credentials, though the electronic parking brake's seatbelt requirement could be inconvenient.