2022 Mazda CX-30 vs 2023 BMW X7

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 was reminiscent of a smaller CX-5, featuring an upright grille and smooth, flowing fenders. Built on the same platform as the Mazda3, it was essentially a raised version of the Mazda3 hatchback. The CX-30's raked windshield acted like a greenhouse on sunny days, potentially causing a tan on longer drives. However, the windshield's slight curve at eye level for taller drivers could distort the road view, which was distracting. Inside, the cabin was comfortable and quiet, with a solid feel to all components. The interior design was one of the best among affordable cars, blending conventional and digital displays artfully. The infotainment screen rose organically from the dashboard, but its steep learning curve was a downside.

In contrast, the 2023 BMW X7 underwent a mid-cycle makeover, adopting a bolder design akin to the BMW 7 Series sedan. The front featured LED accent lights and recessed headlights, maintaining the oversized kidney grille that was polarizing. While the new design aimed for boldness, it sacrificed grace and cohesiveness. The interior received a refresh with a curved glass housing for the digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The center console featured a toggle switch-like gear selector, replacing the previous crystal lever. Interior materials were of premium quality, with leather upholstery and a new Sensafin synthetic substitute. Despite some harsh reflections from glossy trims, the cabin was sturdily built, offering a modern and elegant appearance.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 came with a base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. Our test model featured an upgraded 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, delivering 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on 87 octane fuel, and 250 hp and 320 lb-ft on 93 octane. Power was routed to all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. The turbocharged engine provided decent acceleration, with a Sport mode enhancing throttle response and shift mapping. The CX-30's conventional shifter design, paddle shifters, and manual tap-shift mode added to its sporty feel. It offered a refined ride with well-weighted steering and quick turn-in, though it was rough over potholes.

The 2023 BMW X7 started with the base xDrive40i model, featuring a new 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine and a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 375 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. The X7 M60i model upgraded to a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with a similar hybrid system, delivering 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Despite its nearly 6,000-pound weight, the X7 handled well, with potent acceleration from the V8. The brake pedal was soft, suitable for a luxury SUV. Handling was limited by weight and ride height but remained composed. The ride was slightly firmer than some luxury SUVs, reflecting BMW's focus on driver engagement.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 offered up to 45.2 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats folded, and 20.2 cubic feet with them in use, average for a subcompact SUV. The Turbo Premium Plus model featured a power rear liftgate. The front seats had a sliding center console cover, which could get stuck when rear seats were folded. The center console provided ample space for personal items, and front doors had deep pockets for large bottles. Rear seats offered solid headroom but were tight for longer drives.

The 2023 BMW X7 excelled in space, with second-row seats accommodating taller passengers and a large sunroof enhancing the airy feel. Accessing the third row required time as the power-operated middle row moved, but it provided a large opening. The third row could hold average-sized adults, though thigh support was limited. Behind the third row, there was 12.8 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 48.6 cubic feet with seats stowed, and 90.4 cubic feet with middle seats folded. The split tailgate and suspension-lowering button aided loading. Front-seat passengers had ample space for personal items, with a large center console bin and well-sized cupholders.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 featured an elegant dash design with an infotainment screen nestled into the dash, controlled by a rotary dial/joystick and toggle buttons. This setup, inspired by older luxury-car systems like BMW's iDrive, lacked touch functionality, making it cumbersome. Navigating Apple CarPlay was particularly frustrating, as exiting required multiple steps. The system remained challenging even after setup, potentially distracting for new users.

The 2023 BMW X7's latest iDrive iteration was a step backward, with many physical buttons eliminated in favor of screen controls. Basic functions were easy, but deeper settings were complex. Voice commands offered a workaround, but they interrupted audio and took time to process. While useful for navigation and texting, voice controls felt like a patch for a flawed system. More physical buttons and intuitive menus were needed for frequently used features.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 was equipped with standard driver-assistance features like forward collision avoidance, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. The Turbo Premium Plus model added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree parking camera. The head-up display was clear, even with polarized lenses. The CX-30 earned five stars from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS, with top marks in crash tests and driver-assistance technology.

The 2023 BMW X7 lacked crash test results from NHTSA and IIHS, common for luxury vehicles. However, it offered a comprehensive list of safety features, including frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive headlights. The M60i trim added a surround-view camera and options like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The highway driving assist feature reduced driver fatigue on long trips, with all features performing reliably.