2020 Mazda CX-5 vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 was a testament to Mazda's commitment to delivering a premium experience beyond mere claims. This model year saw enhancements such as more standard equipment, improved cabin aesthetics with revised instrumentation, and modifications aimed at reducing noise, vibration, and harshness. The turbocharged engine received a torque boost, and AWD versions gained a new off-road traction assistance feature. The CX-5's design, rooted in the "Kodo" styling themes, continued to impress with its appealing, distinctive, and upscale appearance. Inside, especially in the Signature trim, the CX-5 exuded luxury with premium Nappa leather upholstery and real wood accents, although the lack of contrast in the Caturra Brown leather slightly diminished the premium feel.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW X5 maintained the brand's reputation for high-quality craftsmanship. The X5's design was unmistakably BMW, with its signature kidney grille and body shape. While this consistency was reassuring, it also meant the X5 could blend in with other BMWs. The X5 featured full adaptive LED headlights and various trim options, including the sporty M Sport styling. Inside, the X5's interior shared many elements with other BMW models, offering a mix of leather and soft-touch materials. The M Sport models added unique styling touches, enhancing the sporty feel. Despite the abundance of black plastic, the interior remained upscale, though it required regular cleaning to maintain its appearance.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 offered a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with AWD as an option. The Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims featured a turbocharged version of the engine, delivering 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft with regular fuel. Despite its 3,825-pound curb weight, the turbocharged CX-5 accelerated confidently. However, the turbo engine was less fuel-efficient, achieving 24 mpg combined compared to 26 mpg for the naturally aspirated engine with AWD. The CX-5's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced driving engagement, but excessive body motions during spirited driving detracted from the experience.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base X5 sDrive40i/xDrive40i featured a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The X5 M50i boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, while the X5 M delivered 600 hp, increasing to 617 hp with the Competition Package. The X5 xDrive45e plug-in hybrid achieved 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, offering up to 30 miles of all-electric range. Despite its power, the X5's steering dynamics were less engaging than expected, with issues at both low and high speeds. The cabin remained quiet, and the suspension absorbed road imperfections well. Charging the X5 was convenient, with a five-hour charge time on a Level 2 charger and an EPA-estimated 400-mile driving range.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 aimed to compete with luxury SUVs by offering an upscale cabin and generous standard equipment. However, its interior was more cramped compared to mainstream compact crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The CX-5's interior featured stylish gauges and metallic accents, with higher trims adding comfort features like dual-zone climate control, heated seats, and Nappa leather. The front seats were comfortable, but rear legroom was limited. Cargo space measured 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 59.6 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, with well-placed cupholders and a wireless phone charging pad. The front seats were comfortable for short trips, but longer journeys revealed a lack of cushioning. Rear seats accommodated two adults comfortably, and an optional third row was available. The X5's climate controls were easy to manage, and the split liftgate with power functionality facilitated loading cargo. The X5 xDrive45e offered slightly less cargo space due to its battery, but the difference was minimal for most buyers.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system, which drew inspiration from luxury brands like Audi and BMW. The system included a 7-inch touchscreen in the Sport trim, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto added in the Touring trim. Higher trims offered an 8-inch touchscreen, a Bose sound system, and additional features like navigation and a surround-view camera. However, the system's controls were not intuitive, and voice recognition was unreliable. Mazda planned to update the system in 2021, but operational issues persisted.

The 2021 BMW X5 came with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system included a digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, and various connectivity features. Optional upgrades included a head-up display, massaging seats, and premium audio systems. The iDrive system required some acclimation, but it was user-friendly once familiar.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with a comprehensive suite of standard ADAS features under the i-Activsense banner. These included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. The CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with high marks in individual tests.

The 2021 BMW X5 also offered a robust list of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package had issues with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems, particularly in bright sunlight or rain. The X5 received Good ratings from the IIHS and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, despite being subject to seven recalls.