2021 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2020 Mazda CX-5

Mazda executed the concept of premium exceptionally well with the 2020 CX-5. The model year saw enhancements like more standard equipment, improved cabin instrumentation, and noise reduction modifications. The turbocharged engine received a torque boost, and AWD versions gained an off-road traction assistance feature. Prices ranged from $25,190 to $37,155, with the test vehicle in Signature trim costing $38,680. The CX-5's "Kodo" styling themes remained appealing, distinctive, and upscale, a feat many competitors struggled to achieve. Inside, the Signature trim featured premium Nappa leather, real wood, and a black headliner, although the Caturra Brown leather lacked contrast.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe, on the other hand, offered a surprising value for its price. With new gasoline engines and a gas-electric hybrid powertrain, the Santa Fe's lineup included SE, SEL, Limited, and Calligraphy trims. Prices ranged from $26,850 to $39,950, with AWD standard for hybrids. The exterior saw significant changes, including a redesigned front end and new wheel designs. Inside, new colors, patterns, and textures elevated the Santa Fe's interior. The Calligraphy trim, in particular, exuded quality with features like a suede-like headliner and quilted Nappa leather. The test vehicle, priced at $43,590, felt like a steal given its luxurious interior and advanced features.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 came standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. FWD was standard, with AWD optional. The Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims featured a turbocharged version of the engine, delivering 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular. Despite its 3,825-pound curb weight, the turbocharged CX-5 accelerated with authority, though it was less efficient, averaging 22.1 mpg. The CX-5's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced driving enjoyment, but excessive body motions and a high center of gravity detracted from its overall performance.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe offered three new powertrains. The SE and SEL trims featured a 191-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid model combined a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine with an electric motor, producing 226 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. The Limited and Calligraphy trims boasted a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine generating 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Santa Fe's driving modes included Normal, Sport, and Smart, with the latter prioritizing fuel efficiency. The turbocharged engine delivered impressive performance, averaging 22.4 mpg. The Santa Fe's added structural rigidity, improved braking, and refined handling made it a standout in its class.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5's interior aimed to compete with luxury SUVs, offering a stylish and upscale cabin. However, it was more cramped compared to mainstream competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The CX-5's front seats were comfortable but small, and rear passengers might find legroom lacking. Cargo space measured 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expanding to 59.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. Higher trims included features like dual-zone climate control, heated and ventilated seats, and a power liftgate.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe provided ample passenger room and comfort, especially in the Calligraphy trim. All trims featured dual-zone climate control, with stain-resistant fabric or leather seats. The Calligraphy trim added luxurious touches like a suede-like headliner and quilted Nappa leather. The Santa Fe's front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, with heated and ventilated options. The rear seat offered generous legroom and amenities like air-conditioning vents and USB ports. Cargo space was 36.4 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expanding to 72.1 cubic feet with the seats folded.

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

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy was packed with technology, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, surround-view camera, and an 8.5-inch head-up display. The basic 8-inch touchscreen offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the 10.25-inch screen required wired connections but included upgraded voice recognition and Blue Link services. The Harman Kardon sound system with Clari-Fi technology was available with the larger screen. Blue Link provided a range of connected services, including remote engine start and climate control. The Santa Fe also featured Digital Key and Remote Smart Parking Assist, though it lacked a WiFi hotspot.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with standard advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) under the i-Activsense banner. These included 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, making it a highly safe choice.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe offered an extensive list of safety features, especially in the Calligraphy trim. These included forward-collision warning with pedestrian, cyclist, and junction turning assistance, Safe Exit Assist, and rear-occupant alert. The Blind-Spot View Monitor and Highway Driving Assist added to the SUV's safety credentials. The Santa Fe earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with the highest ratings for crashworthiness and front crash-prevention technology.