2021 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2020 Mazda CX-5

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, and reduced noise, vibration, and harshness. The turbocharged engine received a torque boost, and AWD versions gained an off-road traction assistance feature. With prices ranging from $25,190 to $37,155, the CX-5 offered various trims, including the luxurious Signature trim, which featured premium Nappa leather and real wood accents. Despite its upscale appeal, the interior's lack of contrast in the Caturra Brown leather slightly diminished its premium feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Land Rover Range Rover had evolved from its rugged origins to a symbol of luxury. Starting at $92,000, the Range Rover offered a plethora of powertrains and personalization options, with the potential to exceed $250,000. The HSE Westminster special edition, priced at $106,715, featured a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine and standard luxury appointments. Despite its age, the Range Rover's design remained timeless, with hallmark features like blacked-out pillars and clean styling. Inside, the Ivory-color interior exuded luxury, though the InControl Touch Pro Duo infotainment system required acclimation. The Range Rover's cabin was a blend of modern technology and classic luxury, though not without its quirks.

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 optional. The Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims featured a turbocharged engine, delivering up to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel. Despite its 3,825-pound curb weight, the turbocharged CX-5 accelerated with authority, though it was less efficient, averaging 22.1 mpg in testing. The CX-5's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced driving engagement, but excessive body motions detracted from its thrill factor.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover offered a range of powertrains, including a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine with 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission and 4WD with a two-speed transfer case ensured off-road prowess. The Range Rover's adaptive air suspension provided a smooth ride, though its steering was slow and syrupy. Despite its weight and high center of gravity, the Range Rover was best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. The EPA rated the Range Rover at 20 mpg combined, with our testing averaging 18.5 mpg.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5's interior, while stylish and well-equipped, was more cramped than competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The CX-5 Signature's 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 power liftgate, standard on higher trims, added convenience.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured an air suspension with a kneel mode for easier access. The front seats were decadently comfortable, but the second row lacked thigh support and adjustability. Despite its luxurious appointments, storage space was limited, with a maximum cargo capacity of 59.8 cubic feet. The clamshell-style tailgate and suspension kneel function facilitated loading, but luggage space was constrained.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system, inspired by German luxury brands, offered a 7-inch touchscreen in Sport trim, with an 8-inch display in higher trims. Features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose premium sound system. However, the system's controls were not intuitive, and voice recognition was unreliable. Mazda planned to update the system in 2021.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover's InControl Touch Pro Duo system featured three digital displays, offering numerous customization options. While not entirely intuitive, the system was manageable with practice. The dual 10-inch touchscreens posed a distraction while driving, and the head-up display was not visible with polarized sunglasses. The Range Rover also offered an Activity Key wristband and an iGuide smartphone app for added convenience.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with standard i-Activsense ADAS features like adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. It 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 Land Rover Range Rover included standard safety features like forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assistance. Optional packages added adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera. The HSE Westminster Edition included the Drive Pro and Park packages, though the adaptive cruise control was slow to respond.