2019 GMC Acadia vs 2020 Mazda CX-5

The 2019 GMC Acadia presented itself as a stylish SUV with a shorter wheelbase that contributed to its athletic stance. Its upright grille added an upscale touch, making it comparable to more expensive models like the Buick Envision. Despite being categorized as a midsize SUV, the Acadia felt closer in size to compact competitors, offering a broader appeal beyond its GM counterparts. The Acadia's trims ranged from the basic SL to the luxurious Denali, with each level adding more features and options, such as the SLT-1 AWD with the Black Edition package, which enhanced its appearance with black accents.

In contrast, the 2020 Mazda CX-5 excelled in executing a premium feel, with captivating style and continual improvements. This model year saw enhancements in standard equipment, cabin appearance, and noise reduction. The CX-5's design, rooted in Mazda's "Kodo" styling, remained appealing and distinctive. The interior, especially in the Signature trim, featured premium materials like Nappa leather and real wood, although the lack of contrast in the Caturra Brown leather slightly diminished its luxurious feel. Mazda's focus on style and substance made the CX-5 a compelling choice for those seeking an upscale experience.

The 2019 GMC Acadia offered two engine options: a 193-horsepower inline 4-cylinder and a more powerful 310-horsepower 3.6-liter V6. The V6, available in higher trims, provided impressive acceleration and was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Acadia's AWD system, featuring GMC's Active Twin Clutch, allowed for various driving modes, enhancing its versatility. The V6 model could tow up to 4,000 pounds, making it suitable for adventurous outings. Fuel economy varied, with the 4-cylinder FWD achieving 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, while the V6 AWD returned 17/25 mpg.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 came standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Higher trims featured a turbocharged version, delivering up to 250 horsepower with premium fuel. The turbo engine, though powerful, was less efficient, achieving 24 mpg combined. The CX-5's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced driving dynamics, but excessive body motions detracted from its sporty feel. Despite this, the CX-5 remained engaging to drive, with responsive steering and brakes, making it enjoyable in typical driving situations.

The 2019 GMC Acadia provided ample space for front passengers, with functional storage options throughout the cabin. The SLT-1 AWD trim featured captain's chairs in the second row, reducing seating capacity to six. While the second-row seats offered decent comfort, the third row was cramped, suitable only for children. Cargo space was limited, with 12.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 79 cubic feet with all seats folded. Despite its smaller cargo capacity, the Acadia's rubberized floor mats made it practical for outdoor activities.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5, while stylish, had a more cramped interior compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V. The upscale cabin featured elegant design elements, with higher trims offering additional comfort features such as heated and ventilated seats. Cargo space measured 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 59.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. The CX-5's focus on luxury and standard equipment aimed to offset its smaller size, appealing to those seeking a more refined experience.

The 2019 GMC Acadia's base SL trim included a 7-inch touchscreen with GMC's IntelliLink system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims upgraded to an 8-inch screen and added features like navigation and a color head-up display. The SLT-1 and SLT-2 trims included a 4.2-inch color information display, with the Denali trim offering a semi-digital instrument panel.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system, which, while upscale, required acclimation. The Sport trim had a 7-inch touchscreen, with higher trims adding Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose premium sound system. The Signature trim included navigation and a surround-view camera. Interaction with the system was possible through various controls, though the voice-recognition technology was less reliable. Mazda planned to update the system in future models to address operational issues.

The 2019 GMC Acadia came with standard safety features like airbags and a reversing camera. The Driver Alert Package 1, standard on the SLT-1, added blind-spot warning and rear park assist. The SLT-2 trim included the Driver Alert Package 2, offering advanced features like automatic braking and lane-departure warning. However, these features were standard on base trims of some competitors.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with standard i-Activsense ADAS features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. The CX-5's structural engineering and crash-test performance earned it a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The only optional safety feature was adaptive headlights, standard on higher trims, further enhancing its safety credentials.