2021 BMW X7 vs 2021 Mazda CX-30

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo was a striking vehicle, especially for those who appreciated a bold black aesthetic. It featured exclusive shiny black 18-inch wheels, a glossy black grille, and black side mirror housings, all complemented by thick matte black body cladding. This design choice gave the CX-30 Turbo a unique, floating appearance, as if it was perpetually in motion. The elevated stance of the CX-30, compared to the Mazda3 hatchback on which it was based, was immediately noticeable, offering a higher ground clearance and a more commanding view of the road. Inside, the CX-30's cabin mirrored the Mazda3's, with high-quality materials and a sophisticated design, enhanced by stitched chocolate brown surfaces and chrome accents.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW X7 exuded luxury and prestige, standing out even among its high-end competitors. It boasted superior interior quality compared to the Cadillac Escalade and more technological sophistication than the Lexus LX 570. The X7's massive grille, a hallmark of BMW's design, was fitting for its large SUV stature, adding to its visual presence. Inside, the X7 shared design elements with the X5, offering a high-tech and luxurious environment. The cabin was equipped with premium materials and intuitive controls, providing a seamless blend of comfort and technology. The X7's styling was both traditional and glamorous, securing its position at the top of BMW's SUV lineup.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo was equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing between 227 and 250 horsepower depending on the fuel's octane rating. It delivered 310 lb-ft of torque at 2,000 rpm or 320 lb-ft at 2,500 rpm, ensuring consistent acceleration. The CX-30 Turbo's fuel economy was rated at 25 mpg combined, though real-world testing showed an average of 24.1 mpg. The SUV's i-Activ AWD system and G-Vectoring Control Plus technology provided a balanced driving experience, with the AWD system actively distributing power to the rear wheels as needed. Despite its added height and weight, the CX-30 Turbo offered a sophisticated driving experience, though it didn't handle as sharply as the Mazda3. Its Off-Road mode and increased ground clearance made it capable on rough terrain.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and BMW's xDrive AWD system. The X7's eBoost mild-hybrid technology improved responsiveness and efficiency, though its EPA ratings were slightly lower than the previous year. The X7 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, offering ample power for any driving situation. Despite its size, the X7 handled well, though its self-leveling air suspension struggled with excessive body motions. The Dynamic Handling Package enhanced the driving experience with features like Active Comfort Drive and Integral Active Steering, making the X7 both smooth and agile.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo offered a comfortable and driver-focused interior, with eight-way power-adjustable front seats and a heated steering wheel. The cabin's minimalist design and high-quality materials created a spacious feel, though rear-seat space was limited. The CX-30 provided 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 45.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. However, the placement of the wireless smartphone charger in the center console limited storage options.

The 2021 BMW X7's interior was luxurious, with features like heated and ventilated front seats, a five-zone climate control system, and premium Merino leather upholstery. The second-row captain's chairs were comfortable, though access to the third row required some maneuvering. The X7 offered 48.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row folded, expanding to 90.4 cubic feet with the second row down. The power clamshell tailgate made loading and unloading cargo easy.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo featured an 8.8-inch infotainment display controlled via physical controls and voice commands. While the system required acclimation, it offered standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Premium trims included a Bose audio system and a head-up display, enhancing the driving experience. However, the lack of a touchscreen and the cumbersome process for changing radio stations were drawbacks.

The 2021 BMW X7 was equipped with a 12.3-inch iDrive 7.0 infotainment system, offering both touchscreen and voice control. The system included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a head-up display. The X7's technology package featured a natural voice recognition system and gesture control, though the latter was inconsistent. The system was user-friendly, though it required some familiarity to avoid distraction while driving.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, with a full suite of i-ActiveSense ADAS features. Premium trims added advanced lighting and parking systems, as well as Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-30's safety features were effective and user-friendly, though it lacked high-speed lane-centering assistance.

The 2021 BMW X7 came standard with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package. This package included advanced driving aids like evasive-steering assist and traffic-jam assist. The X7's safety systems were generally reliable, though some lane-maintenance features were occasionally inconsistent. The Parking Assistance Package added semi-automated parking and a surround-view camera.