2020 Acura MDX vs 2021 Mazda CX-5

The 2020 Acura MDX showcased a design that could be described as elegant but not eye-catching. It was a good-looking crossover SUV that maintained a harmonious balance, outfitted with the brand’s signature Jewel Eye LED headlights, which contributed to a distinguished appearance. These headlights arrayed five LED elements per side, enhancing its nighttime visibility and adding a touch of sophistication. The grille was trapezoidal with a prominent Acura logo, contributing to an expressive face.

The MDX exhibited a sleek, low-slung profile for a three-row SUV, with sharp, chiseled details and a fast roofline. Its paint and chrome were impeccably flawless, underscoring Acura's commitment to craftsmanship. Inside, the MDX's interior was modern and straightforward, eschewing the over-padded look common in luxury vehicles. The center stack featured twin infotainment screens and a central command wheel surrounded by a trio of button rows. High-quality materials and first-rate fit and finish gave the MDX a solid, well-built feel, with switches and knobs operating with a rewarding authority.

Meanwhile, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 adopted a sleeker and more fluid design, appearing almost slippery even at rest. While not ostentatious, it carried the brand's design DNA in a very stylish manner. The base trim was equipped with automatic LED headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, a rear roof spoiler, and rain-sensing wipers. The higher Touring and Grand Touring trims further adorned the SUV with features like privacy glass, leatherette seats, dual-zone climate control, and advanced LED headlights that pivoted with the steering wheel.

Special editions like the Carbon Edition sported standout features such as Polymetal Gray paint, gloss black door mirrors, and 19-inch alloy wheels, with interiors fitted with red leather seats and black honeycomb trim. The top-tier Signature trim added Caturra Brown Nappa leather seats, genuine wood trim, and ambient lighting, presenting a premium look that rivaled luxury brands.

The 2020 Acura MDX offered a choice between two powertrains. The base engine was a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 that delivered 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This setup could be combined with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The MDX Sport Hybrid featured a 3.0-liter V6 engine coupled with three electric motors, producing a combined 321 hp and 289 lb-ft of torque, connected to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and all-wheel drive.

The gasoline-only MDX demonstrated robust performance and nimble handling, particularly when equipped with Acura's SH-AWD system, which utilized torque vectoring to enhance cornering stability. The MDX's four-wheel independent suspension smoothed out road imperfections, making it a comfortable ride for long journeys. Paddle shifters allowed for manual control, but the automatic modes provided precise and timely gear changes.

For the 2021 Mazda CX-5, two engine options were available. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produced 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, achieving commendable fuel efficiency with up to 28 mpg in combined driving for FWD models. The more potent turbocharged 2.5-liter engine available on higher trims produced 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque, with a slight drop in fuel efficiency. The six-speed automatic transmission performed adequately, though rivals offered more advanced gearbox options.

The CX-5 emphasized a sporty driving experience, with firm steering and a responsive throttle, particularly in models with the turbo engine. However, this focus on handling resulted in a stiffer ride compared to more comfort-oriented competitors. The AWD system provided strong traction, especially in inclement weather, but the stiff suspension could make the ride feel less refined on rough roads.

The 2020 Acura MDX provided ample space for families, with three rows of seating and functional features like sliding and reclining second-row seats, which facilitated access to the third row. Cargo capacity behind the third row measured 15.8 cubic feet, expandable to 43.4 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 90.9 cubic feet with both the second and third rows flat. Additional storage included a recessed cubby hole and underfloor compartment, as well as numerous pockets and bins throughout the cabin.

In contrast, the 2021 Mazda CX-5's interior aimed for comfort and style but offered less cargo space. Behind the rear seats, it provided 30.9 cubic feet, which expanded to 59.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. While adequate, this fell short of competitors like the Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4. Interior storage included standard bottle holders, cupholders, and a center console, though the CX-5’s center stack and shifter took up considerable space, and rear legroom was somewhat compromised.

Acura streamlined its technology offerings through package options for the 2020 MDX. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, five USB ports, and an eight-speaker audio system. Higher trims with the Technology Package added navigation, rain-sensing wipers, and a 10-speaker premium audio system. The Advance Package further upgraded the technology suite with a surround-view camera, extra USB ports, and advanced driver assistance systems. An optional Entertainment Package provided a rear-seat DVD system with large screens and wireless headphones.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 featured a standard 10.25-inch infotainment touch screen, supported by Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, Mazda's operating system received mixed reviews, criticized for non-intuitive controls and lack of modern design finesse. The control knob was awkwardly placed for shorter drivers, and some traditional controls like volume and tuning knobs were missing or inconveniently located. Despite these shortcomings, the system's functionality was augmented by voice commands and smartphone integration.

The 2020 Acura MDX came equipped with AcuraWatch, a suite of safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Additional packages enhanced safety with features like blind-spot monitoring, head-up display warnings, and a surround-view camera. The MDX earned high safety ratings, including a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and a "Good" rating in most IIHS crash tests.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 also boasted a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, and automatic high beams. Optional features like a head-up display and front/rear parking sensors could be added. The CX-5 achieved a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS and a five-star rating from NHTSA, making it one of the safest vehicles in its class.