2020 Mazda CX-5 vs 2019 BMW X5

The 2019 BMW X5, despite its hefty 5,000-pound weight, aimed to deliver a sedan-like driving experience. BMW's focus on on-road performance over off-road capabilities was evident, as the X5 provided a smooth ride on pavement. The vehicle offered a five-passenger layout, expandable to seven, though the third row was notably cramped. Power came from two turbocharged engines: a 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder for the xDrive40i and a 4.4-liter V8 for the xDrive50i, both paired with a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. The base xDrive40i started at $60,700 and included a suite of features such as adaptive LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, and a digital gauge cluster. Various packages allowed for further customization, adding features like keyless entry, satellite radio, and advanced safety systems.

In contrast, the 2020 Mazda CX-5 focused on delivering a premium experience through captivating style and continual product improvement. The 2020 model year saw enhancements in standard equipment, cabin appearance, and noise reduction. The turbocharged engine received a torque boost, and AWD models gained off-road traction assistance. Prices ranged from $25,190 to $37,155, with the Signature trim offering premium Nappa leather upholstery and real wood trim. The CX-5's design, both exterior and interior, remained appealing and upscale, though the Caturra Brown leather in the Signature trim lacked contrast. The test vehicle, with Signature trim and additional features, totaled $38,680.

The 2019 BMW X5 excelled in performance, particularly with its turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine in the xDrive40i, delivering 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The 8-speed ZF automatic transmission provided smooth and efficient shifts, contributing to an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city, 26 highway, and 22 combined. The xDrive50i's 4.4-liter V8 offered 456 hp and 479 lb-ft, achieving 0-60 mph in around 4 seconds. Built on BMW's Cluster Architecture platform, the X5 featured a double-A-arm front and multi-link rear suspension with adaptive dampers. The optional air suspension allowed for adjustable ride height, enhancing both comfort and sportiness. Despite its weight, the X5 delivered a smooth and sporty ride, especially with the optional 20-inch wheels and M Sport brakes.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 offered a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims featured a turbocharged version, producing 250 hp and 320 lb-ft on premium fuel, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular. The turbocharged engine, though powerful, was less efficient, averaging 22.1 mpg in testing. The CX-5's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced driving dynamics, but the SUV's high center of gravity led to excessive body motions during spirited driving. Despite this, the CX-5 remained engaging to drive, with responsive steering and brakes, making it enjoyable in typical driving situations.

Inside the 2019 BMW X5, the design featured aggressive angles and dual 12.3-inch screens for the updated iDrive infotainment system. However, the interior could feel cheap without expensive options like upgraded trim or glass and ceramic buttons. The seats were somewhat uncomfortable, with limited thigh support and no ventilation, making the $1,600 Luxury Seating package a worthwhile addition. Space was ample, with 33.9 cubic feet of cargo space expandable to 72.3 cubic feet. The split rear tailgate and air suspension made loading easier, and the X5 could tow up to 7,200 pounds when properly equipped.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5, aiming for a more upscale market, featured a stylish and well-appointed interior. The Touring trim added dual-zone climate control and heated front seats, while the Grand Touring Reserve included ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The Signature trim offered Nappa leather and genuine wood trim. Despite its upscale cabin, the CX-5's interior was more cramped compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. Cargo space measured 30.9 cubic feet, expandable to 59.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The power liftgate, standard on higher trims, added convenience.

The 2019 BMW X5's technology was a mixed bag. The gesture control and voice commands were often unresponsive, and the iDrive interface, while well-designed, required a learning curve. The Driving Assistance Plus package, offering Level 2 autonomy, struggled with high-speed operation, making it a questionable addition. However, the Extended Traffic Jam Assistant worked well in stop-and-go traffic. The Parking Assistant Plus package, with its 3D camera, was a worthwhile option. The Harman Kardon stereo provided excellent sound, and a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond surround sound system was available for audiophiles.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system, which, while upscale, could be frustrating to use. The Sport trim had a 7-inch touchscreen, while higher trims included an 8-inch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose premium sound system. The Signature trim added navigation and a surround-view camera. Interaction with Mazda Connect was possible via touchscreen, center console controls, or voice commands, though none were ideal. The voice-recognition technology was particularly unreliable. For 2021, Mazda planned to update the system, addressing some of these issues.

The 2019 BMW X5 featured a new brake-by-wire setup, providing a nearly natural feel with some feedback during the final moments of braking. The M Sport brakes allowed for a 60-0 mph stop in 119 feet. The X5 received a 4-star rating from the NHTSA, with 5-star ratings in side crash tests. The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+, awarding top scores in all tests.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with standard i-Activsense ADAS, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. The CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with top marks in nearly all individual tests.