2020 Mazda CX-30 vs 2021 Jeep Cherokee

During the 2020 Mazda CX-30's development, a decision was made to cover its lower perimeter with thick gray plastic cladding. This choice was widely regarded as a mistake, as it detracted from the vehicle's otherwise attractive styling. The excessive cladding made the 18-inch wheels appear too small and gave the impression that the CX-30 was perpetually on a hydraulic lift. Despite this, the interior design was praised for its luxurious feel above the midpoint of the cabin, although hard plastics were prevalent below that line. The CX-30's pricing started at $21,900, with various trims and options pushing the cost up to $32,120 for a fully loaded model.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee's styling had become more accepted over time, although the short grille and swept-back headlights remained polarizing. The vehicle's appearance varied significantly depending on the trim level. Entry-level models looked basic, while higher trims like the 80th Anniversary Edition featured more attractive elements such as 19-inch wheels and painted cladding. The Cherokee's exterior design was functional, with options like a panoramic sunroof enhancing its appeal. Overall, the Cherokee stood out in a crowded market of crossover SUVs, bearing a resemblance to the larger Grand Cherokee.

The 2020 Mazda CX-30 was powered by a smooth and refined 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, delivering 186 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 186 pound-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm. Despite its competitive power figures, the CX-30's weight of 3,408 pounds and lack of a turbocharged engine option limited its performance. The 6-speed sport automatic transmission, however, was excellent, making the most of the available power. The CX-30 offered 8 inches of ground clearance, making it suitable for light off-roading. Its driving dynamics were generally praised, although it felt slower and less agile compared to the Mazda3. Fuel economy was a concern, with real-world testing yielding only 23.9 mpg.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee offered three engine options: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 180 horsepower, a 3.2-liter V-6 with 271 horsepower, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Acceleration was adequate but not outstanding, with 0-60 mph times around 7.2 to 7.4 seconds. All engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, which had improved over time. The Cherokee's off-road capabilities were notable, especially in the Trailhawk model, which featured Jeep Active Drive Lock and Selec-Speed Crawl Control. However, the availability of front-wheel drive in lower trims was seen as a cost-cutting measure.

The 2020 Mazda CX-30 offered ease of entry and exit due to its higher ground clearance. The interior was upscale and elegant, with comfortable seating and a well-designed driving position. Cloth seating was standard, with simulated and genuine leather available in higher trims. The rear seat was cramped, and cargo space was limited to 20.2 cubic feet behind the back seat and 45.2 cubic feet with the seats folded down, making it less practical than some competitors.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee filled a niche between the smaller Renegade and larger Grand Cherokee. It offered 26 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 55 cubic feet with them folded, which was less than many competitors. Passenger volume was competitive at 102 cubic feet. The interior layout was simple and functional, with higher trims offering more upscale materials like suede and Nappa leather. The cabin design was straightforward, focusing on practicality rather than luxury.

The 2020 Mazda CX-30 featured an 8.8-inch static display for its infotainment system, which was not a touchscreen to improve driver focus. However, the controls were not always intuitive. Standard features included Bluetooth, HD Radio, and Mazda Connected Services. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available starting from the Select trim. Higher trims offered a 12-speaker Bose sound system and a head-up display.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee's Uconnect infotainment system was highly regarded, with 7-inch and 8.4-inch touchscreen options. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though only via wired connections. The system also offered a 4G WiFi hotspot and Amazon Alexa integration. Remote start was available, adding convenience for various climates. The Uconnect system was praised for its ease of use and minimal latency.

The 2020 Mazda CX-30 excelled in safety, with a comprehensive list of standard advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) and impressive crash-test ratings. Standard features included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The CX-30 earned a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS with Premium trim.

The 2021 Jeep Cherokee did not earn a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS but received "Good" scores in most crashworthiness categories. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall safety rating. Standard safety features included lane departure warning, forward collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was only available on higher trims.