2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar vs 2021 Mazda CX-30

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo was a striking vehicle with its exclusive shiny black 18-inch wheels, grille, and side mirror housings, all complemented by thick matte black body cladding. This design choice gave the CX-30 a unique floating appearance, as if it were perpetually cresting a hill. The elevated stance of the CX-30 set it apart from the Mazda3 hatchback, on which it was based, offering a higher ground clearance and a more SUV-like presence. Inside, the cabin mirrored the Mazda3's with high-quality materials, chocolate brown stitched surfaces, and a chrome accent around the engine start button, creating an upscale vibe. The CX-30 Turbo was available with black or Griege leatherette upholstery, with black or white leather as standard on higher trims.

In contrast, the 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar exuded class and elegance, with a design that echoed the larger Range Rover's profile but in a sportier package. The Velar's long wheelbase, short overhangs, and signature Land Rover grille and lights were unmistakable. The vehicle's design was both blocky and streamlined, with a sloping roof and flush door handles. The R-Dynamic trim added bronze accents and a more aggressive front bumper. Inside, the Velar's cabin was sleek, with high-quality materials and a polished black center stack. The interior featured a reconfigurable instrument panel and two touchscreens, offering a sophisticated and modern look.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing between 227 and 250 horsepower depending on the fuel's octane rating. It delivered 310 to 320 lb-ft of torque, providing effortless acceleration. The CX-30 Turbo's six-speed automatic transmission, i-Activ AWD system, and G-Vectoring Control Plus technology contributed to its dynamic performance. However, its added height and weight made it less agile than the Mazda3. The CX-30 Turbo offered an Off-Road mode and 2.5 inches of extra ground clearance, enhancing its capability on rough terrain. Despite its sporty performance, the CX-30 Turbo's fuel economy was modest, with an EPA rating of 25 mpg combined.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar shared its chassis with the Jaguar F-Pace, offering a lower center of gravity and lighter weight for improved handling. The base engine was a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four with 247 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD. The Velar's optional air suspension provided a plush ride and up to 10 inches of clearance. The optional 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system delivered 340 to 395 horsepower, offering high performance and reduced emissions. The Velar's Terrain Response system and All Terrain Progress Control enhanced its off-road capability, though it lacked a locking differential or low range.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo offered a comfortable and driver-focused interior with eight-way power adjustment and heated front seats. The cabin's organic shapes and minimalism created a sense of spaciousness, though the rear seats were cramped for adults. The CX-30 Turbo provided 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 45.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. However, the location of the optional wireless smartphone charger limited storage space in the center console.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar's interior was tighter than midsize SUVs, with limited headroom and visibility due to its stylish design. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 49 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Velar's design sacrifices practicality for aesthetics, and its parking brake control was confusingly integrated with the transmission button. The Pivi Pro infotainment system improved usability, and the Velar featured a heated windshield, PM2.5 air filter, and advanced navigation capabilities.

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 SiriusXM, navigation, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The Active Driving Display projected useful data onto the windshield, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar's Pivi Pro infotainment system offered a simplified layout with customizable features. The system included a voice assistant, advanced navigation, and a 360-degree camera. Standard features included LED headlights, a 12-speaker Meridian stereo, and adaptive cruise control. The Velar's technology suite was comprehensive, though some driving assist displays lacked detail.

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 featured a full suite of i-ActiveSense ADAS, including adaptive front lighting and Traffic Jam Assist. The mobile 9-1-1 system provided emergency notification in case of a collision.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar scored five stars in Euro NCAP tests, though U.S. ratings were unavailable. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included 360-degree cameras and adaptive cruise control with steering assist.