2024 Jeep Wrangler vs 2023 Mazda CX-30

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 presented a choice between two models: the 2.5 S with a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and the 2.5 Turbo, which boasted a turbocharged version capable of up to 250 horsepower. Both models featured a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The CX-30's design was characterized by a long hood, dramatic flanks, and a stubby rear end, giving it a nose-heavy appearance. Despite its appealing design, the excessive gray body cladding detracted from its overall aesthetic. Inside, the CX-30 offered an upscale cabin with quality materials, including leather upholstery in all but the base trim. The 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus model featured a tasteful combination of off-white leather, a chocolate brown center console, and black accents, resembling an entry-level luxury SUV.

In contrast, the 2024 Jeep Wrangler maintained its iconic burly, body-on-frame look, with larger tires on the more capable models like the Rubicon X and Rubicon 392 trims. The redesigned grille, first seen on the 2023 20th Anniversary edition of the Wrangler Rubicon, was shorter and wider, allowing for improved airflow. The integrated antenna in the windshield was a practical upgrade, preventing snags during off-roading. The Wrangler offered various roof options, including a traditional soft-top, full hard top, retractable sunroof, and power-retractable sunroof. The windshield could fold down, and the doors were removable, providing a customizable experience. The Wrangler's rugged design was complemented by its off-road capabilities, making it a versatile choice for adventure enthusiasts.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S models gained five horsepower, totaling 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque from the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This improvement was accompanied by a notable increase in fuel economy, achieving 29 mpg in combined driving. The 2.5 Turbo model, when fueled with premium gas, delivered 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, while regular gas resulted in 227 hp and 310 lb-ft. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The CX-30 offered eight inches of ground clearance and an Off-Road traction assist function, though its suspension was more suited for well-traveled paths. Weighing 3,525 pounds, the CX-30 2.5 Turbo provided robust acceleration but could be caught flat-footed in heavy traffic. The small 12.7-gallon fuel tank limited its range, requiring frequent refueling stops. Despite its soft suspension, the CX-30 excelled on twisty roads, thanks to its G-Vectoring Control Plus and excellent steering.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler offered a range of powertrains, including a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 270 horsepower, a plug-in hybrid version with 375 horsepower, a 3.6-liter V6 with 285 horsepower, and a 6.4-liter V8 with 470 horsepower. Various transfer cases provided different levels of off-road capability, with the Rubicon trim featuring the Rock-Trac transfer case. Most models came with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while a six-speed manual was available with the 3.6-liter engine. The 4xe PHEV Wrangler combined a 2.0-liter turbo engine with electric motors, offering 21 miles of all-electric range. The Wrangler's solid axles provided excellent articulation, and locking differentials enhanced traction. The Willys trim level offered Offroad+ mode, 33-inch tires, and rock rails. However, the Wrangler's ride quality on pavement was bumpy, though sound deadening improvements made the cabin quieter. The optional WARN winch added practicality for off-road adventures.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 featured standard dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, and a power sunroof. The Turbos added a heated steering wheel. While the driver's seat was comfortable, the front passenger seat offered only four-way manual adjustment. Rear air conditioning vents were standard on all but the base trim, though rear legroom was tight. The CX-30 provided reasonable storage space, with a center armrest bin, glove compartment, and door panel bins. The power liftgate revealed 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space, accommodating two full-size suitcases. Folding the rear seats expanded cargo capacity to 45.2 cubic feet, though these measurements were modest for the segment.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler's big news was its upgraded towing capacity, now rated at 5,000 pounds for specific models. Inside, heated seats and a heated steering wheel were available, along with 12-way power-adjustable front seats. The 4xe model featured a 30-amp Power Box, allowing for accessory power. The Wrangler's interior was designed for practicality, with features like removable doors and a fold-down windshield. The new Power Box and increased towing capacity added versatility to the Wrangler's rugged appeal.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30's Mazda Connect infotainment system had three significant flaws. It lacked a touchscreen display, requiring drivers to use center console controls that demanded attention away from the road. The system also lacked conversational voice-recognition technology, making it less user-friendly. Additionally, there was no tuning knob, limiting radio station navigation. Despite these shortcomings, the 8.8-inch display was well-integrated, with pleasing graphics and a logical menu structure. The CX-30 included Bluetooth, HD Radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and connected services. Turbos added SiriusXM satellite radio, navigation, and a 14-speaker Bose sound system.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler featured a 12.3-inch center infotainment screen running Uconnect5, with optional navigation. The system was faster and more user-friendly, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. The Off-Road Pages provided real-time data, and the Trails Offroad feature offered trail information and ratings. The Wrangler also included a wireless hotspot, dual Bluetooth phone pairing, and the ability to store user profiles. The upgraded infotainment system enhanced the Wrangler's tech-savvy appeal.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 excelled in safety, earning a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS. It featured standard rear side airbags, outboard rear seatbelt tensioners, and other updates. Standard safety equipment included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The CX-30 also had a driver monitoring system, automatic high-beam headlights, and an E911 emergency notification system. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, a surround-view camera, parking sensors, and Traffic Jam Assist. The safety systems worked well, though a forward-collision warning event was overly sensitive.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler introduced first- and second-row side-curtain airbags. Forward collision warning was standard on most models, while advanced driver aids were optional. The Wrangler had not yet been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS for 2024, but the 2023 model received mixed ratings. The addition of side curtain airbags was expected to improve safety ratings for the 2024 model year.