2021 Mazda CX-30 vs 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Velar

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Velar was a stylish addition to the Range Rover lineup, positioned between the compact Evoque and the larger Range Rover. Its design was neither too sleek nor too boxy, featuring a low roof and steeply-raked windshield that gave it a unique profile. The Velar maintained its SUV identity with a broad front end and short overhangs, enhancing its off-road capabilities. The SVAutobiography Dynamic Edition added sportier elements like larger air intakes and quad exhaust tips, while the interior boasted high-quality leather and metal trim, creating a cockpit-like feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo embraced a bold aesthetic with shiny black 18-inch wheels and extensive body cladding, giving it a floating appearance. This design set it apart from the Mazda3 hatchback, on which it was based, by offering a higher ground clearance. Inside, the CX-30 Turbo featured a driver-focused layout with quality materials and a sense of spaciousness. The cabin was equipped with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, though it lacked ventilated seats. The rear seat was less accommodating for adults, but the overall design exuded an upscale vibe.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Velar introduced a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine in the SVAutobiography Dynamic Edition, producing 550 horsepower and 502 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain allowed the Velar to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds, with a top speed of 177 mph. Despite its impressive speed, the Velar's performance was not as sharp as some competitors, and it felt large on tight roads. The Velar's off-road capabilities were supported by Land Rover's Terrain Response system, although it lacked a low range for more challenging terrains.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering between 227 and 250 horsepower depending on fuel octane. With 310 to 320 pound-feet of torque, the CX-30 Turbo offered effortless acceleration. Its i-Activ AWD system and G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced handling, though the added height and weight made it less agile than the Mazda3. The CX-30 Turbo's off-road mode and 2.5 inches of extra ground clearance provided confidence on rough terrains, while its fuel economy averaged 24.1 mpg.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Velar was larger than small luxury SUVs but smaller than midsize counterparts. Despite its size, interior space was not its strong suit, with limited headroom and a cramped cockpit-like front seating area. Cargo space was competitive, offering 15.7 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 48.9 cubic feet with them folded. The Velar's towing capacity was respectable, with the SVAutobiography Dynamic Edition and V6 models capable of towing up to 5,511 pounds.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo provided a comfortable driving experience with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and a driver-focused interior layout. The cabin's minimalistic design contributed to a sense of spaciousness, though the rear seat was cramped for adults. Cargo space was generous for a small SUV, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 45.2 cubic feet with them folded. However, the location of the optional wireless smartphone charger limited storage options in the center console.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Velar featured the InControl Touch Pro Duo infotainment system with dual 10.0-inch touchscreens. The upper screen handled smartphone, navigation, and media functions, while the lower screen managed vehicle settings and climate control. Despite high-quality graphics, the system was criticized for slow responses. Additional tech included a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, and capacitive steering-wheel controls.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo's infotainment system was centered around an 8.8-inch display, operated via physical controls and voice commands. While not a touchscreen, the system offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The CX-30 Turbo included Mazda Connected Services with remote engine starting and a vehicle finder function. Premium trims added a Bose audio system, navigation, and a head-up display, enhancing the overall tech experience.

The 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Velar lacked safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, as low-volume luxury vehicles were not prioritized for crash testing. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and parking aids. Adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring were available as options, though Land Rover's driver-assist tech was less sophisticated compared to competitors.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating. It came equipped with a comprehensive suite of i-ActiveSense advanced driving assistance systems. Premium trims added features like adaptive front lighting, parking sensors, and Traffic Jam Assist, enhancing safety and convenience.