2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer vs 2023 Mazda CX-30

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer exuded a classic SUV aesthetic, sharing its frame and body shell with the standard Wagoneer. This resulted in a traditional design characterized by a tall hood, broad shoulders, trapezoidal wheel arches, and an upright profile. The Grand Wagoneer distinguished itself with a standard black roof and unique hood, front fascia, and grille. The grille leaned forward slightly, featuring laser-etched knurling in the slots, while 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.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-30 presented a more artful design, albeit with a nose-heavy appearance due to its long hood and stubby rear end. The excessive grey body cladding aimed to emphasize its SUV identity, though it detracted from the overall aesthetic. Inside, the CX-30 boasted an upscale cabin with quality materials, offering a mix of cloth and leather upholstery depending on the trim. The GT Turbo model featured a tasteful combination of off-white leather and chocolate brown accents, creating an entry-level luxury feel. Despite its premium pricing, the CX-30's interior design and materials justified the cost, providing a refined and elegant atmosphere.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer was powered by a robust 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, impressive for its 2,900-kilogram weight. 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 system. With a maximum ground clearance of 25.4 centimetres, the Grand Wagoneer could tackle various terrains, although its size limited its off-road capabilities. Despite its power, the Grand Wagoneer was best suited for a stately pace, as its ride became bouncy at higher speeds, and the steering lacked precision.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered a range of powertrains, with the base GX trim featuring 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 six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD provided a smooth driving experience, with a ground clearance of 20 centimetres. The GT Turbo model offered robust acceleration and a thrilling driving experience, especially on twisty roads. However, the small 48-litre fuel tank limited its range, and the suspension struggled with speed bumps, impacting ride comfort. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-30 excelled in daily driving situations, offering a quiet and refined ride on highways.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer accommodated seven passengers with standard second-row captain’s chairs or eight with an optional third-row bench seat. It offered more third-row headroom and second-row legroom than competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. However, front-row space was more limited compared to these rivals. The Grand Wagoneer provided 775 litres of cargo space with all seats in place and 2,007 litres with the third row stowed. Its maximum towing capacity was 4,472 kilograms, slightly less than the standard Wagoneer due to its extra weight. The vehicle featured a standard sunroof, four-zone automatic climate control, and ample storage bins, although forward visibility was somewhat restricted.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered a comfortable driving experience with standard dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and a power moonroof. However, the front passenger seat had limited adjustability, and rear legroom was tight. The CX-30 provided reasonable storage space, with a centre armrest bin, glove compartment, and door panel bins. The GT and GT Turbo trims included paddle shifters and a power liftgate, revealing 572 litres of cargo space. With the rear seats folded, the CX-30 offered a maximum of 1,280 litres of cargo space, which was modest for its class.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer featured a comprehensive infotainment system with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, dual touchscreens, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The McIntosh audio system and 4G-LTE Wi-Fi hotspot enhanced connectivity, while second-row passengers enjoyed a 10.25-inch touchscreen for climate control. An optional rear-seat entertainment system added two 10.1-inch screens. The Uconnect 5 system, though occasionally slow to respond, offered over-the-air updates and a clear head-up display.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-30's Mazda Connect infotainment system lacked a touchscreen, relying on centre console controls that required frequent glances away from the road. The system's voice recognition was limited, and the absence of a tuning knob was inconvenient. Despite these shortcomings, the 8.8-inch display was well-integrated, offering pleasing graphics and a logical menu structure. The CX-30 included Bluetooth, HD Radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and connected services, with Turbos adding SiriusXM, navigation, and a Bose sound system.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA. It came equipped with a 360-degree camera system, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features included intersection collision assist, driver-attention monitor, night vision, and traffic-sign recognition. The Active Lane Management System combined adaptive cruise control with lane centring, with a hands-free version planned for future release.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, thanks to improved side-impact crash protection and standard rear side airbags. Safety features varied by trim, with the GX offering blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The GS added adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The GT and GT Turbo trims included a surround-view camera, parking sensors, and a head-up display. The CX-30's safety systems generally performed well, though the forward-collision warning system was occasionally overly sensitive.