2023 Mazda CX-30 vs 2023 BMW X7

The 2023 BMW X7 underwent a significant design update, particularly at the front, adopting a style similar to the BMW 7 Series sedan. The new LED accent lights replaced the previous headlights, which were now recessed, and the oversized kidney grille remained a polarizing feature. While BMW aimed for a bolder design, the new look was divisive, with some finding it lacking in grace and cohesiveness. The interior saw a refresh with a curved glass housing for the digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen, and a more elemental dashboard design. The interior materials were of high quality, with options for leather upholstery and a new Sensafin synthetic substitute. Despite the controversial exterior, the interior updates gave the X7 a modern and elegant appearance.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered two models: the 2.5 S with a 191-horsepower engine and the 2.5 Turbo with up to 250 horsepower. The CX-30's design was artful yet marred by excessive gray body cladding, giving it a nose-heavy appearance. Inside, the cabin was upscale, with quality materials and a tasteful combination of colors. The 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus model featured off-white leather, a chocolate brown center console, and black accents, resembling an entry-level luxury SUV. The interior was elegant, justifying the CX-30's premium pricing.

The 2023 BMW X7 offered a base xDrive40i model with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, producing 375 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. The M60i model upgraded to a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, delivering 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Despite its nearly 6,000-pound weight, the X7 handled well, with potent acceleration from the V8 and adequate performance from the six-cylinder. The ride was slightly firmer than some luxury SUVs, but it maintained a good balance of performance and comfort.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S models gained five horsepower, totaling 191, with improved fuel economy at 29 mpg combined. The 2.5 Turbo offered 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium gas, or 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet on regular gas. Both engines were mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with standard all-wheel drive. The CX-30's 3,525-pound weight allowed for robust acceleration, though the powertrain could be flat-footed in traffic. The small fuel tank limited range, but the CX-30 excelled on twisty roads, offering a rewarding driving experience. The suspension was compliant, and the turbocharged engine provided effortless highway merging.

The 2023 BMW X7 provided ample space, with the second row accommodating taller passengers and a large sunroof enhancing the airy feel. Accessing the third row required some time, but it offered adequate space for average-sized adults. Cargo space was 12.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 48.6 cubic feet with the third row stowed and 90.4 cubic feet with the middle seats folded. The X7 featured a split tailgate and a button to lower the suspension for easier loading. Front-seat storage was generous, with a large center console bin and well-sized cupholders.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 featured standard dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated front seats. The cabin was comfortable for the driver, but the front passenger seat offered limited adjustment. Rear legroom was tight, though the seatbacks were padded. Storage space was reasonable, with a center armrest bin, glove compartment, and door panel bins. The CX-30 offered 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 45.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The power liftgate was unnecessary, given the limited cargo space.

The 2023 BMW X7 featured the latest iDrive infotainment system, which was less intuitive than previous versions. Many physical buttons were replaced by touchscreen controls, complicating basic functions like seat adjustments and cruise control settings. Voice commands offered a workaround, but they interrupted audio playback. The system's complexity detracted from its usability, and more physical buttons would have been appreciated.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30's Mazda Connect infotainment system had three significant flaws: no touchscreen display, lack of conversational voice recognition, and no tuning knob. The center console controls required visual reference, and the steering-wheel controls were hard to read. Voice recognition was limited, and the absence of a tuning knob made radio navigation cumbersome. Despite these issues, the system featured Bluetooth, HD Radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and connected services. Turbos added SiriusXM, navigation, and a Bose sound system.

The 2023 BMW X7 lacked crash test results from NHTSA and IIHS, but it offered a comprehensive list of safety features. Standard equipment included frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, adaptive headlights, and parking sensors. The M60i trim added a surround-view camera, with options for adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and highway driving assist. The safety features performed well, with no false alarms or unpredictable responses.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from IIHS, with improved side-impact protection and standard rear side airbags. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, adaptive front lighting, and a head-up display. The Turbo Premium Plus model featured a surround-view camera, parking sensors, and Traffic Jam Assist. The safety systems worked well, though a forward-collision warning was triggered unexpectedly during testing.