2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2022 Mazda CX-30

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a choice between the classic two-door and the more practical four-door body style. Buyers could select from a variety of powertrains, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, a gasoline-powered V6, a turbodiesel V6, a gas V8, or the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid. The standard six-speed manual transmission could be upgraded to an eight-speed automatic. With four-wheel drive as standard, multiple systems were available depending on the trim level. The Wrangler came in four core trims: Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon, with numerous special editions like the Willys and Willys Sport, Sahara High Altitude, and Wrangler Rubicon 392. The High Tide model, a US-market special edition, was based on the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport S trim and included options like LED exterior lighting and a body-colour hardtop with a Sunrider Fliptop. The Wrangler's interior was basic, with durable cloth upholstery and a driving position close to the steering wheel, dashboard, and windshield.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 was styled as a downsized CX-5, with an upright grille and smooth, flowing fenders. It shared its platform with the Mazda3, resembling a raised-up version of the Mazda3 hatchback. The CX-30's raked windshield acted like a greenhouse on sunny days, and its slight curve could distort the road view for taller drivers. The cabin was comfortable and quiet, with a blend of conventional and digital displays. The infotainment screen rose organically from the dashboard, though its usability was hindered by a steep learning curve. In Canada, the CX-30 was available in GX, GS, and GT trims, with features like heated front seats, rain-sensing wipers, and a standard all-wheel drive drivetrain. The GT trim, which we tested, included a power liftgate, paddle shifters, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The turbocharged engine in the GT provided lively performance, especially in Sport mode, and the CX-30's ride was sporty and refined, though rough over potholes.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler was equipped with a 3.6-litre V6 engine featuring eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, producing 285 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. It had an eight-speed automatic transmission and the optional Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system. Fuel consumption was rated at 11.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving by Natural Resources Canada, but our test vehicle averaged 14.0 L/100 km over 700 kilometres. The Wrangler's driving experience was unique, with a rough ride, loud cabin, and touchy brakes, but it offered an immersive experience that engaged all the senses. The Wrangler was designed for off-road adventures, providing a sense of freedom and excitement.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 offered a base 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque in the GX trim. The GS and GT trims featured a 2.5-litre engine with 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. Our test model had the upgraded 2.5-litre turbocharged engine, delivering 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque on 87 octane fuel, and 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft on 93 octane fuel. The six-speed automatic transmission routed power to all four wheels. The CX-30's turbocharged engine provided decent acceleration, and the Sport mode enhanced throttle response and shift mapping. The CX-30's ride was sporty and refined, with well-weighted steering and quick turn-in, though it was rough over potholes.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's raised suspension made entry and exit challenging, especially for shorter individuals. The manual height adjuster for the driver's seat required regular re-adjustment. The Wrangler's seats were comfortable, with durable cloth upholstery, and the interior featured plastic and rubber materials. Visibility was mixed, with some areas requiring leaning forward to see traffic lights. The rear seat offered agreeable accommodations for two adults, with air conditioning vents and cupholders. Cargo space was 898 litres behind the rear seat, expanding to 2,050 litres with the rear seat folded.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 provided up to 1,280 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 572 litres with the seats in use. The GT trim included a power rear liftgate. The front seats featured a sliding centre console cover, though it could get stuck under the rear seats when folded. The centre console offered ample space for personal items, and the front doors had deep pockets for large water bottles. Rear seats provided solid headroom, suitable for short-to-medium trips, though longer drives might be tight.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's Sport S trim featured a 7-inch touchscreen display with Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The optional Uconnect 8.4 infotainment system offered upgrades like satellite radio and a navigation system. Our test vehicle included remote engine starting, satellite radio, passive keyless entry, and single-zone automatic climate control. The Cold Weather Group added heated front seats and a heated steering wheel.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30's infotainment system was controlled by a rotary dial/joystick in the centre console, with no touch functionality. Inspired by luxury-car systems, it was not user-friendly, especially for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was challenging to navigate, even after setting up presets. The CX-30's elegant dash design integrated the infotainment screen seamlessly, but the lack of touch functionality was a drawback.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, adding features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and forward-collision warning. However, the Wrangler's crash-test ratings were mediocre, with a three-star rating for rollover resistance from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS. Safety features were optional, and the Wrangler required careful driving.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 offered available driver-assistance features, including 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 earned five stars from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with top marks in crash tests and driver-assistance technology.