2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Mazda CX-30

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a fresh addition to the Jeep lineup, distinct from the existing Grand Cherokee. It was an extended-length version of the upcoming 2022 redesign, featuring a third-row seat and increased cargo space. Despite the potential confusion of its model year designation, the Grand Cherokee L was expected to sell well, largely due to its appealing styling. It bore a resemblance to the more expensive Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer models, presenting a smaller, yet equally stylish alternative. The SUV's design was unmistakably Jeep, with its signature seven-slot grille, trapezoidal wheel arches, and familiar lighting arrangements, ensuring it looked impressive across all trim levels.

Jeep offered the Grand Cherokee L in various trims, including Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve, with prices ranging from $36,995 to $64,235, plus a $1,695 destination charge. The test vehicle, a Summit trim with 4WD, metallic paint, and several premium packages, totaled $64,770. While some interior materials didn't quite match the high price point, the Summit's quilted leather and real wood trim were attractive, and the vehicle was packed with technology. Overall, the redesigned interior marked a significant improvement over the previous model.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30, on the other hand, was a stylish subcompact SUV that resembled a downsized CX-5, with an upright grille and smooth fenders. Built on the same platform as the Mazda3, it was essentially a raised 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. Inside, the cabin was comfortable and quiet, with a well-designed interior that combined conventional and digital displays. However, the infotainment system, while attractive, had a steep learning curve.

The CX-30 was available in several trims, including 2.5 S, 2.5 S Select, 2.5 S Preferred, 2.5 S Premium, Turbo, Turbo Premium, and Turbo Premium Plus. The base 2.5 S trim came with 16-inch alloy wheels, AWD, and an 8.8-inch infotainment screen, among other features. Higher trims added more luxury and technology, with the Turbo Premium Plus offering front-and-rear parking sensors and advanced driver assistance features. The test model, a Turbo Premium Plus, showcased the CX-30's sporty and refined ride, though it could be rough over potholes.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L came standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered rear-wheel drive or a choice of three 4WD systems, with a maximum tow rating of 6,200 pounds and an EPA-estimated 21 mpg combined. An optional 5.7-liter V8 engine, available only with certain trims and 4WD, delivered 357 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque, increasing towing capacity to 7,200 pounds but reducing fuel economy to 17 mpg combined. The test vehicle featured the V6 engine and 4WD, providing brisk acceleration but was loud when revved. The eight-speed automatic transmission was generally well-behaved, though it sometimes resisted downshifts to improve fuel economy, which averaged 17.8 mpg during testing.

The Grand Cherokee L offered various driving modes, including Sport, Snow, Mud/Sand, and Rock, with the Summit's Quadra-Drive II 4WD system featuring an electronic locking differential and a low-range transfer case. The Quadra-Lift suspension provided up to 10.9 inches of ground clearance and 24 inches of water fording capability. The SUV's stiffer structure contributed to a smooth ride and capable handling, with variable-ratio steering and large wheels aiding in maneuverability. The Grand Cherokee L excelled in off-road conditions, with the Overland model equipped with the Off-Road Group being the most capable.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30's base engine was a 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. The test model featured an 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. Power was sent to all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. The turbocharged engine provided decent acceleration, with a Sport mode enhancing throttle response and shift mapping. The CX-30's conventional shifter design, steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, and manual tap-shift mode added to its performance credibility.

The CX-30 offered a sporty, refined ride with well-weighted steering and quick, precise turn-in. It exhibited little body roll in corners but had a rough ride over potholes. The suspension handled dirt and gravel roads well, though craggy paved roads could be uncomfortable.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered comfort with its Summit trim, featuring heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats with 12-way power adjustment, a heated steering wheel, and a four-zone automatic climate control system. However, the dashboard vents were too small, making it difficult to cool the cabin quickly. The second row featured captain's chairs with ample legroom and comfort, and manual side window sunshades. The third row was comfortable for most adults, with large side windows providing a good view.

The Grand Cherokee L's storage space was limited for front-seat occupants, but second-row passengers had a storage console. Cargo space behind the third row measured 17.2 cubic feet, with a storage bin under the load floor. Folding the third row increased cargo capacity to 46.9 cubic feet, and the maximum volume behind the front seats was 84.6 cubic feet.

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 rear seats when folded. The center console provided ample space for personal items, and the front doors had deep pockets for large water bottles. Rear seats offered solid headroom for short-to-medium trips but lacked the headroom of larger models like the CX-5.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering faster response times and an improved user experience. Two touchscreen sizes were available, with the test vehicle featuring a 10.1-inch screen. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Alexa compatibility, satellite radio, and connected services. The optional 19-speaker McIntosh audio system provided excellent sound quality, though the logo didn't match the interior's vibe. Additional features included a digital instrumentation panel, digital rearview mirror, night vision system, and Fam Cam rear-seat monitoring.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30's infotainment system was controlled by a rotary dial and toggle buttons, with no touch functionality. Inspired by luxury-car systems like BMW's iDrive, it was criticized for poor usability. Navigating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was challenging without a touchscreen, though entering CarPlay was straightforward. The system remained confusing even after setup, potentially distracting for new users.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L introduced Active Driving Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance. While effective, the steering assist felt artificial, and lane changes were overly responsive. Intersection Collision Assist, standard on Summit models, detected threats at intersections and applied brakes if necessary. The Grand Cherokee L offered a comprehensive package of driving assistance and collision avoidance technologies, including park assist. Crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of review.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 came with standard driver-assistance features like forward collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Turbo Premium Plus model added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors. Adaptive front headlights and a 360-degree parking camera were also included. The head-up display provided clear graphics, even with polarized lenses. The CX-30 earned top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS.