2023 BMW X1 vs 2022 Mazda CX-30

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 had the look and styling of a downsized CX-5, featuring an upright grille and smooth, flowing fenders. Riding on the same platform as the Mazda3, it was essentially a raised-up version of the Mazda3 hatchback. The CX-30's raked windshield acted like a greenhouse on sunny days, potentially causing a tan on longer drives. However, the slight curve at eye level for taller drivers could distort the road view, which was distracting. The cabin was comfortable and quiet, with solid-feeling buttons and doors. The interior design was one of the best among affordable cars, blending conventional and digital displays artfully. The infotainment screen rose organically from the smooth dashboard, but its steep learning curve was a downside.

The 2023 BMW X1 felt more like an evolution than a revolution from its predecessor. It retained the X1's recognizable look but was stronger and more refined. The larger, squarer kidney grille was less startling than the BMW 4 Series' grille, signaling a robust front fascia. The X1's door handles were flush with its sides, and it came with standard LED headlights and taillights. The 2023 model offered a more dynamic color palette with 13 exterior choices, including five new options. The X1 still came with 18-inch wheels, with options for 19-inch and 20-inch wheels wrapped in performance tires. The xLine design added silver accents, while the M Sport Package incorporated more body-colored elements and the Shadowline exterior package.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 featured a base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. Our test model had the upgraded 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, delivering 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque on 87 octane fuel, and 250 hp and 320 lb-ft on 93 octane fuel. Power was routed to all four wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. The turbocharged engine provided decent acceleration, and the Sport mode altered throttle response and shift mapping for a livelier drive. The CX-30 had a sporty, refined ride with well-weighted steering and quick turn-in, though it had a rough ride over potholes.

The 2023 BMW X1 received a power boost with its 2.0-liter twin-turbo four-cylinder engine, making 241 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. This was an increase of 13 hp and 37 lb-ft from the previous model, allowing the X1 to achieve 0-60 mph in 6.2 seconds and tow up to 3,500 pounds. An all-new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission replaced the previous eight-speed automatic, providing a more engaged driving experience with paddle shifters. The Adaptive M Suspension and damping systems were upgraded for better comfort and stability, with minimal body roll. The ride was a bit stiff but added to the sense of driving a smaller, agile hatchback. The 2023 X1's EPA fuel economy was rated at 25 mpg city, 34 highway, and 28 combined, with Premium fuel recommended.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 offered up to 45.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 20.2 cubic feet with the seats in use. The Turbo Premium Plus model featured a power rear liftgate. The front seats had a sliding center console cover, which could get stuck under the seat when the rear seats were folded. The center console provided ample space for personal items, and the front doors had deep pockets for large water bottles. Rear seats provided solid headroom for short-to-medium trips but lacked the headroom of the larger CX-5 for longer drives.

The 2023 BMW X1 was more spacious than its predecessor, with 42.1 inches of front-row headroom and 39.3 inches in the rear. Even with the optional sunroof, it felt spacious. The X1 offered 40.4 inches of front-row legroom and 37 inches in the back. Cargo space was 25.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 57.2 cubic feet with them folded down. Heated seats were an optional $550 upgrade, which also included a heated steering wheel. The wireless charging pad, part of the Premium Package, was fitted with a clasp to hold the phone in place, ensuring it stayed secure even on twisty roads.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 had an elegant dash design with an infotainment screen nestled into the dash, controlled by a rotary dial/joystick and toggle buttons. The lack of touch functionality made it difficult to use, especially with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was inspired by older versions of BMW's iDrive, which had poor usability. Navigating between presets and getting out of Apple CarPlay was cumbersome, making it frustrating for new users.

The 2023 BMW X1 featured the BMW Curved Display with iDrive 8, integrating a 10.7-inch infotainment screen and a 10.25-inch driver information display. The system was responsive and easy to operate, though cluttered with apps and sub-menus. Voice commands worked well for climate control and the panoramic moonroof, but the navigation system required highly specific inputs. The touchscreen functioned smoothly, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included. The Live Cockpit Plus was standard, with Live Cockpit Professional available in the Premium Package, adding a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. The X1 had four USB-C ports and an optional 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 came with standard driver-assistance features, including forward collision avoidance, pedestrian detection, automatic high beams, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, rain-sensing wipers, and adaptive cruise control. The Turbo Premium Plus model added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, traffic-sign recognition, front-and-rear parking sensors, and reverse automatic emergency braking. The adaptive front headlights and 360-degree parking camera were helpful features. The CX-30 earned five stars from the NHTSA and the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award.

The 2023 BMW X1 had standard active blind-spot detection with an exit warning function and a front-collision warning system with pedestrian and cyclist detection. The Active Driving Assistant Professional suite included speed limit assist, extended traffic-jam assistant, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control with stop & go. The 360-degree camera system was part of the Premium Package. Active Park Distance Control and Back-Up Assistant were available, with the updated Parking Assistant Plus managing steering, acceleration, braking, and gear changes.