2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2022 Mazda CX-30

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a longer version of the standard two-row Grand Cherokee, extending 11.4 inches to accommodate a third row of seats. This additional length, along with a five-inch longer wheelbase, provided more legroom in the second row and wider rear doors. The design seamlessly integrated the extra mass, making the standard Grand Cherokee appear truncated. Jeep's decision to release the L model first, as a 2021 model, contributed to this perception. The Grand Cherokee L maintained Jeep's signature design elements, such as the seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches, while modernizing the lighting and improving the paint finish and panel fit. The high-end Summit and Summit Reserve trims added black roofs, larger wheels, and more chrome, with new paint colors introduced for 2022. Inside, the Grand Cherokee L offered a luxurious experience with dual high-resolution screens, real wood, aluminum, and quilted Nappa leather, reminiscent of a Mercedes in style and quality.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 had the appearance of a smaller CX-5, featuring an upright grille and smooth fenders. Built on the same platform as the Mazda3, it resembled a raised Mazda3 hatchback. The CX-30's raked windshield acted like a greenhouse on sunny days, potentially causing distractions for taller drivers due to its slight curve. The cabin was comfortable and quiet, with a well-designed interior that combined conventional and digital displays. However, the infotainment system, controlled by a rotary dial, had a steep learning curve. The CX-30 offered various trim levels, each adding features like alloy wheels, climate control, and leather upholstery. The Turbo Premium Plus model included advanced driver assistance features and a power rear liftgate, enhancing its appeal.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered two engine options: a 3.6-liter V6 and a 5.7-liter V8, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and available in rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. The V6 produced 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, but it struggled with the vehicle's weight, especially when fully loaded. The V8, available on higher trims, delivered 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, providing a more satisfying driving experience. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis was impressive, offering a composed ride and precise steering. The optional air suspension allowed for adjustable ride heights, enhancing both comfort and off-road capability. The Grand Cherokee L had a maximum towing capacity of 6,200 pounds for RWD models and 7,200 pounds with 4WD.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 featured a base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. The upgraded turbocharged version offered 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque on regular fuel, increasing to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft on premium fuel. The six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive provided decent acceleration, with a Sport mode enhancing throttle response and shift mapping. The CX-30's sporty ride was complemented by well-weighted steering and minimal body roll, though it could be rough over potholes. The suspension handled dirt and gravel roads well, but craggy paved roads posed a challenge.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, known for its simplicity and sleek interface. Physical switches for climate and stereo controls were easy to use, and the central rotary shifter was intuitive. The Grand Cherokee L offered ample space in all rows, with the third row accommodating average adults comfortably. Second-row captain's chairs were standard, with a bench seat available as an option. A panoramic roof and multiple USB ports enhanced the travel experience, though the air vents were insufficient for proper airflow, requiring the fan to be kept on high.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 provided up to 45.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 20.2 cubic feet with them in use. The Turbo Premium Plus model included a power rear liftgate, adding convenience. The front seats featured a sliding center console cover, which could get stuck when the rear seats were folded. The center console offered ample space for personal items, and the front doors had deep pockets for large water bottles. Rear seats provided adequate headroom for short-to-medium trips, though longer drives might be less comfortable.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's upper trims offered premium features like massage modes for the front seats, a head-up display, night vision, and a 360-degree camera system. The Active Driving Assist system provided excellent steering on highways. The navigation system integrated with the instrument panel, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available. New for 2022, optional touchscreens for rear-seat passengers included Amazon Fire TV. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and forward automatic emergency braking.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30's infotainment system was controlled by a rotary dial, inspired by luxury-car systems like BMW's iDrive. However, the lack of touch functionality made it cumbersome to use, especially with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was challenging to navigate, even after setting up presets. The CX-30's elegant dash design integrated the infotainment screen seamlessly, but the usability issues detracted from the overall experience.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS. It came standard with driver and passenger knee airbags, a rear seat alert, trailer sway control, and various driver aids.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 was equipped 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 a 360-degree parking camera. The CX-30 earned five stars from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, with top marks in crash tests and driver-assistance technology.