2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2021 Mazda CX-30

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo featured a distinctive design with shiny black 18-inch wheels, a shiny black grille, and black side mirror housings. The extensive use of black cladding gave it a unique, floating appearance, making it stand out from the Mazda3 hatchback on which it was based. The elevated stance of the CX-30 was immediately noticeable upon entering the vehicle, where the cabin's high-quality materials and stitched chocolate brown surfaces provided an upscale vibe.

Inside, the CX-30's cabin closely resembled that of the Mazda3, with a few minor changes like a chrome accent around the engine start button and a frameless rearview mirror. The SUV offered a choice between black and Griege leatherette upholstery, with black or white leather available in higher trims. Prices ranged from about $31,000 to $35,000, with our test vehicle priced at $35,745, including a destination charge.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, a new seven-passenger model, was based on the upcoming redesigned 2022 Grand Cherokee. It featured a third-row seat and more cargo volume, making it distinct from the older five-passenger Grand Cherokee. The Grand Cherokee L's styling was a strong selling point, resembling a smaller version of the more expensive Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer models.

Jeep offered the Grand Cherokee L in various trims, including Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve, with prices ranging from $36,995 to $64,235. Our test vehicle, equipped with Summit trim, 4WD, and several premium features, had a window sticker price of $64,770. While some interior materials didn't meet the high price expectations, the Summit's quilted leather and real wood trim were appealing, and the SUV was loaded with technology.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo came with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing between 227 and 250 horsepower depending on the fuel's octane rating. Torque ranged from 310 lb-ft at 2,000 rpm to 320 lb-ft at 2,500 rpm. The six-speed automatic transmission, standard i-Activ AWD system, and front suspension tuning were also updated. The CX-30 Turbo's EPA rating was 25 mpg in combined driving, but our test averaged 24.1 mpg, resulting in a driving range of just over 305 miles.

Mazda focused on delivering a satisfying driving experience rather than the fastest acceleration times. The CX-30 Turbo provided effortless acceleration and managed torque steer effectively. The i-Activ AWD system distributed power to the rear wheels as needed, enhancing traction and response. However, the CX-30's added height and weight made it less enjoyable to drive compared to the Mazda3. The SUV's 2.5 inches of extra ground clearance and Off-Road mode compensated for this when driving off-road.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L came standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered RWD or three different 4WD systems, with a maximum tow rating of 6,200 pounds and an EPA rating of 21 mpg in combined driving. An optional 5.7-liter V8 engine, available only with 4WD, generated 357 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque, increasing towing capacity to 7,200 pounds but reducing fuel economy to 17 mpg combined.

Our test vehicle had the V6 engine and 4WD, providing brisk acceleration but loud when revved. The eight-speed automatic transmission sometimes resisted downshifts to improve fuel economy, resulting in an average of 17.8 mpg. The Grand Cherokee L offered various driving modes, including Sport, Snow, Mud/Sand, and Rock, with the Quadra-Lift adaptive air suspension providing up to 10.9 inches of ground clearance. The SUV's stiffer structure contributed to a smooth ride and capable handling, making it easy to park and maneuver.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo offered exceptional comfort for the driver, with eight-way power adjustment and impressive long-distance support. Both front seats were heated, and higher trims included a heated steering wheel. However, ventilated seats were not available, and the front passenger seat lacked the same range of adjustment as the driver's seat. The cabin's organic shapes and minimalism created a sense of spaciousness, but the rear seat was cramped for adults.

Storage space was generous, but the location of the optional wireless smartphone charger in the center console storage bin forced a choice between storage and charging. The CX-30 Turbo provided 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 45.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered comfort with heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats with 12-way power adjustment, a heated steering wheel, and a four-zone automatic climate control system. However, the dashboard vents were too small, making it difficult to cool the cabin quickly. The second-row captain's chairs provided plenty of legroom and comfort, with manual side window sunshades for added convenience.

The Grand Cherokee L's third-row seat was comfortable for all but the tallest adults, with large side windows for a great view. Practical storage space for front-seat occupants was limited, but second-row passengers enjoyed a storage console. Cargo space behind the third-row seat measured 17.2 cubic feet, expanding to 46.9 cubic feet with the third-row seat folded and 84.6 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo featured an 8.8-inch infotainment system display, operated using physical controls on the center console and steering wheel or specific voice commands. While the system required acclimation, it offered standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as Mazda Connected Services with remote engine starting and a vehicle finder function. Higher trims included SiriusXM satellite radio, a navigation system, a 12-speaker Bose premium audio system, and an Active Driving Display.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L employed the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering faster response and an improved user experience. Two touchscreen sizes were available: 8.4-inch and 10.1-inch with navigation. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Alexa compatibility, satellite radio, and connected services with a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The Grand Cherokee L also offered a natural voice-recognition system, a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, a digital instrumentation panel, a digital rearview mirror, a thermal-imaging night vision system, and a Fam Cam rear-seat monitoring system.

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 rating in rollover resistance. It came equipped with a full suite of i-ActiveSense advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive front lighting, front and rear parking sensors, rear automatic braking, a surround-view camera system, and Traffic Jam Assist. The SUV also featured a mobile 9-1-1 automatic emergency notification system.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L introduced Active Driving Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability and lane-centering assistance. The system worked well but felt artificial in the driver's hands. Intersection Collision Assist, standard on Summit models, detected threats at intersections and applied brakes if necessary. The Grand Cherokee L also offered Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist. Crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of the review, but the new model was expected to improve upon the old Grand Cherokee's ratings.