2022 Mazda CX-5 vs 2021 Chevrolet Trax

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax retained much of its design from the 2017 model year, with updates to its interior and exterior. It offered two trims, LS and LT, after dropping the Premier trim. The LS trim came with basic features like 16-inch wheels, a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. The LT trim added more amenities, including heated mirrors, LED lights, and upgraded seating, with optional styling and convenience packages.

In contrast, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 featured new LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, and a redesigned grille, enhancing its premium appeal. The interior remained largely unchanged, but the Signature trim boasted luxurious Nappa leather and wood trim. Mazda restructured its trim levels, offering the CX-5 2.5 S and 2.5 Turbo, with the latter providing a turbocharged engine. The CX-5 aimed to deliver a more upscale experience, with options like a navigation system and premium paint.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax was powered by a single engine option, a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder producing 138 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive. While adequate for city driving, the Trax struggled with highway speeds and passing maneuvers. Its firm ride was harsh over rough roads, but it offered good maneuverability in tight spaces.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine choices. The base 2.5 S had a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The 2.5 Turbo variant delivered up to 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium fuel. The CX-5's driving dynamics were improved with increased structural rigidity and reworked suspension, providing a quieter, smoother, and sportier ride. It also featured Mazda Intelligent Drive Select with multiple drive modes.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax provided decent headroom and legroom, though rear seat comfort was lacking. It offered 18.7 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 48.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The front passenger seat could fold flat for larger items, but the Trax lacked options for a power liftgate.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints with new, supportive seats and a sportier driving position. The back seat remained snug, but features like heated cushions and air vents improved comfort. The control layout was less intuitive due to the non-touchscreen infotainment system. Cargo space was 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet, which was competitive with luxury SUVs but less so against mainstream crossovers.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax featured a 7-inch touchscreen with the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. It included two USB ports and an available WiFi hotspot, providing a straightforward and user-friendly tech experience.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display, operated via center console controls. While lacking a touchscreen and natural voice recognition, it offered standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims included a 10-speaker Bose sound system and SiriusXM satellite radio, with a three-year trial of Mazda Connected Services.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax received a five-star crash test rating from the NHTSA but lacked advanced safety features. Standard equipment included airbags and a backup camera, with optional blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-path detection available in the LT Convenience Package.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety with its i-Activsense package, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added features like a surround-view camera and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, underscoring its comprehensive safety offerings.