2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 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. Its shiny black 18-inch wheels, grille, and side mirror housings, combined with matte black body cladding, gave it a distinctive look. Mazda's design aimed to create a light and agile appearance, suggesting the body floated over the wheels. This effect was constant, making the CX-30 appear as if it was perpetually in motion, even when stationary. The styling set it apart from the Mazda3 hatchback, on which it was based, with a higher ground clearance that was both perceptual and real. Inside, the CX-30 shared its cabin design with the Mazda3, featuring quality materials and a sophisticated vibe. The interior boasted stitched chocolate brown surfaces and a choice of leatherette or leather upholstery, depending on the trim level. The Premium Plus trim added chrome accents and a frameless rearview mirror, enhancing the upscale feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee maintained a familiar design, echoing Jeep's traditional styling cues. It was a two-row version of the previous year's Grand Cherokee L, offering a sportier and more compact option. The Grand Cherokee was available in various trims, from the basic Laredo to the luxurious Summit Reserve, each catering to different preferences and needs. The exterior design paid homage to the classic 1963 Wagoneer, with a forward-leaning grille, trapezoidal wheel arches, and a black roof option. Inside, the Grand Cherokee's cabin was nearly identical to the Grand Cherokee L, with a focus on quality and comfort. The base Laredo trim offered a simple yet substantial interior, while the Summit Reserve trim provided a luxurious experience with premium leather, advanced audio, and a panoramic sunroof. Despite its size, the Grand Cherokee managed to offer a sense of spaciousness and improved visibility, making it a versatile choice for various driving conditions.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo was equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering between 227 and 250 horsepower, depending on the fuel's octane rating. It produced 310 to 320 lb-ft of torque, ensuring strong acceleration. The CX-30 Turbo featured a six-speed automatic transmission, i-Activ all-wheel-drive, and G-Vectoring Control Plus technology, enhancing its driving dynamics. Despite its power, the CX-30 Turbo's fuel economy was modest, with an EPA rating of 25 mpg combined, and a real-world average of 24.1 mpg. The SUV's off-road capabilities were supported by an Off-Road mode, providing additional ground clearance and traction. However, its added height and weight affected its handling compared to the Mazda3, making it less agile on paved roads.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a choice between a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 293 horsepower and a 5.7-liter V8 engine with 357 horsepower. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Grand Cherokee's towing capacity ranged from 6,200 to 7,200 pounds, depending on the engine and drivetrain. Three 4WD systems were available, catering to different off-road needs. The Trailhawk trim, in particular, was equipped for serious off-roading, with features like Quadra-Drive II, an electronic locking rear differential, and a Quadra-Lift air suspension. The Grand Cherokee's fuel economy varied, with the V6 achieving up to 21 mpg combined, while the V8 managed 17 mpg. On-road, the Grand Cherokee felt nimble and athletic, with excellent ride quality, especially without the Quadra-Lift suspension.

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 in higher trims. The cabin's design emphasized minimalism and quality, creating a sense of spaciousness. However, rear-seat space was limited, making it less suitable for adult passengers on long journeys. The CX-30 provided 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 45.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Storage options were generous, but the placement of the wireless smartphone charger in the center console limited its usability.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee prioritized comfort and visibility, with heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and front seat massagers available in higher trims. The cabin's design improved sightlines and offered a panoramic sunroof for an airy feel. Rear-seat space was tight for taller passengers, but the Grand Cherokee L provided more legroom. The two-row Grand Cherokee offered 37.7 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 70.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Despite its size, the Grand Cherokee managed to provide a sense of spaciousness and practicality.

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 integration. Premium trims added a 12-speaker Bose audio system and a head-up display, enhancing the driving experience. However, the lack of a touchscreen and the cumbersome process of changing radio stations were drawbacks.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a tech powerhouse, with a comprehensive head-up display, Night Vision system, and multiple touchscreens. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system offered improved responsiveness and over-the-air updates. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Amazon Alexa integration. The Grand Cherokee's technology suite included a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster, a 10-inch head-up display, and an optional front passenger interactive display, providing entertainment and assistance to the driver.

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 full suite of i-ActiveSense ADAS, including adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera system. The Traffic Jam Assist feature provided lane-centering assistance at low speeds, enhancing safety in congested traffic.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured a robust safety structure with extensive use of aluminum and high-strength steel. It offered a comprehensive package of ADAS, including Intersection Collision Assist and Active Driving Assist. The latter provided Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assistance, with a hands-free version expected in 2022. While crash-test results were pending, the Grand Cherokee's safety features and structural improvements suggested enhanced protection.