2021 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2021 Mazda CX-30

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo presented a bold aesthetic with its shiny black 18-inch wheels, grille, and side mirror housings, complemented by thick matte black body cladding. This design choice gave the vehicle a distinctive, floating appearance, as if it were perpetually cresting a hill. The CX-30 stood out from its Mazda3 hatchback roots, offering a higher ground clearance and a more SUV-like stance. Inside, the cabin mirrored the Mazda3’s upscale vibe with quality materials, chocolate brown stitched surfaces, and a few chrome accents. The Premium Plus trim added black leather and a frameless rearview mirror, enhancing the luxurious feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Land Rover Range Rover exuded timeless elegance with its Byron Blue exterior, silver 21-inch wheels, and hallmark design cues like blacked-out windshield pillars and large nameplate lettering. Despite its design nearing a decade old, the Range Rover maintained a modern yet classic look. Inside, the Ivory-color interior provided a high-contrast, mid-century modern ambiance. The cabin was luxurious, with quality materials and a sophisticated design, although the InControl Touch Pro Duo infotainment system was less intuitive than newer models. The Range Rover’s interior was a blend of luxury and heritage, offering a unique driving experience.

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 octane. It delivered 310 to 320 lb-ft of torque, ensuring effortless acceleration. The six-speed automatic transmission and i-Activ AWD system, along with G-Vectoring Control Plus technology, provided a smooth driving experience. However, the CX-30’s added height and weight slightly compromised its handling compared to the Mazda3. The SUV’s fuel economy was rated at 25 mpg combined, with a real-world average of 24.1 mpg, necessitating frequent refueling. The CX-30’s Off-Road mode and 2.5 inches of extra ground clearance made it capable on rough terrains, although it was less agile on paved roads.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover offered a range of powertrains, including a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine in the HSE Westminster edition, delivering 395 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission and 4WD system with a two-speed transfer case ensured the Range Rover’s off-road prowess. Terrain Response 2 traction control provided multiple modes for various conditions. The adaptive air suspension offered a smooth, wafting ride, although the SUV’s weight and tall center of gravity resulted in some side-to-side wallow. The Range Rover’s fuel economy was rated at 20 mpg combined, with a real-world average of 18.5 mpg. While it excelled in off-road conditions, the Range Rover was most rewarding at a leisurely pace on paved roads.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo offered a comfortable driver’s seat with eight-way power adjustment and heated front seats. The cabin’s minimalist design and quality materials created a spacious feel, although the rear seats were cramped for adults. The CX-30 provided 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 45.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. However, the location of the wireless smartphone charger in the center console limited storage options.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured an air suspension with a kneel mode for easier access. The front seats were decadently comfortable, but the rear seats lacked thigh support and adjustability, resulting in a slouched seating position. The Range Rover offered 25 cubic feet of luggage space, expandable to 59.8 cubic feet. The clamshell-style tailgate and suspension kneel function facilitated loading, although storage space was limited.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo featured an 8.8-inch infotainment display operated 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. However, the lack of a touchscreen and complex radio station navigation were drawbacks.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover boasted a fully digital instrumentation and infotainment system with three displays. The InControl Touch Pro Duo system, while comprehensive, was not entirely intuitive. The Range Rover included a head-up display, although it was not visible with polarized sunglasses. The Activity Key wristband and iGuide smartphone app were notable features, enhancing convenience and usability.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with a full suite of i-ActiveSense ADAS. Premium trims added adaptive lighting, parking sensors, and Traffic Jam Assist. The mobile 9-1-1 system provided emergency notification.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover included basic safety features, with optional packages for advanced driver aids. The HSE Westminster Edition featured the Drive Pro and Park packages, offering adaptive cruise control and parking assistance. While effective, the adaptive cruise control was slow to respond in certain situations.