2023 BMW X7 vs 2024 Mazda CX-30

The 2023 BMW X7 underwent a significant mid-cycle makeover, adopting a bold new front-end design reminiscent of the BMW 7 Series sedan. The SUV featured LED accent lights in place of the previous headlights, with the actual headlights now recessed underneath. This redesign, characterized by an oversized kidney grille, was polarizing, with many finding it controversial. While the front-end changes were divisive, the sides and rear of the X7 remained largely unchanged, offering a sense of familiarity. Inside, the X7's interior received a refresh, highlighted by a curved glass housing for the digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The interior materials were of premium quality, with options for leather upholstery and a new Sensafin synthetic substitute. Despite some glossy trim choices causing glare, the interior revisions provided a modern and elegant appearance.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-30 presented a more cohesive design, albeit with excessive charcoal-colored plastic cladding on the lower body. Despite this, the CX-30's overall appeal was undeniable, with its short overhangs, long hood, and sculpted flanks. The interior of the CX-30 exuded a sense of refinement, with quality materials and logical controls. The gauges were clear, and the infotainment screen was integrated into the dashboard. The CX-30 offered a range of versions, with the 2.5 Turbo models delivering up to 250 hp. The test model featured a unique Zircon Sand paint over Terracotta and Black interior upholstery, adding a distinctive touch. Overall, the CX-30's design and interior quality positioned it as a strong contender in its class.

The 2023 BMW X7 offered a robust performance lineup, starting with the base xDrive40i model, which featured a new 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. This combination delivered 375 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, an improvement over the previous year's model. The X7 M60i model took performance up a notch with a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, producing 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing power to all four wheels. Despite its nearly 6,000-pound weight, the X7 handled well on the road, with the V8 offering potent acceleration. The ride was slightly firmer compared to other luxury SUVs, but it maintained a good balance of performance and comfort.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30, equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivered 250 hp and 320 pound-feet of torque. The powertrain response was tuned for a gradual build, providing a smooth power delivery. The CX-30's six-speed automatic transmission shifted flawlessly, and the standard AWD system ensured power was distributed to all four wheels. However, the turbocharged engine's fuel economy was not its strong suit, with an observed 21.3 mpg on a mountainous evaluation route. Despite this, the CX-30 was fun to drive, offering a nimble and connected ride. It excelled in handling, with excellent outward visibility and newly standard safety features enhancing the driving experience.

The 2023 BMW X7 excelled in providing ample interior space, with the second-row seats accommodating taller passengers comfortably. The power-operated middle row allowed access to the third row, which could hold average-sized adults. Cargo space was generous, with 12.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 48.6 cubic feet with the third row stowed, and a maximum of 90.4 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. The X7 also featured a split tailgate and a button to lower the suspension for easier loading. Front-seat passengers enjoyed adequate storage space, with a large covered bin in the center console and well-sized cupholders.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30, while smaller, offered a well-designed interior with quality materials and logical controls. The driver and front passenger enjoyed comfortable seating, with the power-adjustable driver's seat providing an ideal driving position. Storage space was adequate, with 20.2 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the back seat, expandable to 45.2 cubic feet with the back seat folded. The CX-30's interior flexibility made it practical for its size, though rear-seat space was cramped.

The 2023 BMW X7 featured the latest iDrive infotainment system, which, despite its intuitive layout, had moved many functions to the infotainment screen, reducing the number of physical buttons. This change made accessing certain features, like heated seats and adaptive cruise control settings, more cumbersome. Voice commands were available but could be slow to process. While the system had its merits, more physical buttons and intuitive menus would have been appreciated.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30's turbocharged versions came with a new 10.25-inch infotainment display, offering touchscreen functionality for smartphone mirroring platforms. However, the screen's distance from the driver and front passenger was a drawback. Mazda's approach to reducing driver distraction involved using static displays and a combination of controls, but the lack of a natural voice recognition system limited its effectiveness. The CX-30 included a complimentary three-year subscription to Mazda Connected Services, with additional features like USB-C ports and a Bose premium audio system available on higher trims.

The 2023 BMW X7 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive headlights. The M60i trim added a surround-view camera system, with options for adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The highway driving assist feature was particularly noteworthy, reducing driver fatigue on long trips. While crash test results were unavailable, BMW's reputation and the extensive safety features provided reassurance.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 emphasized safety, with new standard features like blind-spot monitoring and a rear-seat alert system. The CX-30's safety suite included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims offered adaptive headlights, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-30 received high safety ratings, earning five stars from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS.