2021 Chevrolet Blazer vs 2021 Mazda CX-5

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 was a smooth and stylish vehicle that stood out with its sleek design, even when stationary. Unlike many competitors with aggressive, chiseled exteriors, the CX-5 opted for a more refined look. The base Sport trim featured automatic LED headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a rear roof spoiler. Higher trims like the Touring added leatherette seats, dual-zone climate control, and auto-leveling LED headlights, enhancing both comfort and functionality. The top-tier Signature model boasted premium materials like Caturra Brown Nappa leather seats and genuine wood trim, rivaling luxury brands.

In contrast, the 2021 Chevrolet Blazer aimed to impress with its bold, aggressive styling. Its design drew comparisons to high-end vehicles like the Lamborghini Urus, thanks to its wedgy profile, slim-cut windows, and 20-inch wheels. The Blazer's exterior was a standout, with multiple grille designs and customization options like the Redline package, which added black and red accents. However, the interior didn't match the exterior's flair, featuring low-rent materials and an uninspiring design. Despite its sporty look, the Blazer's cabin felt dated and lacked the quality expected at its price point.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available. The turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, available on higher trims, delivered 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, providing a more spirited driving experience. Fuel efficiency for the base engine with FWD was 25 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined. The turbo engine with AWD achieved 22 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. The CX-5's sporty drive was engaging, but its stiff suspension could be a drawback for some.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer offered three engine choices. The base 2.5-liter inline-four engine, found in the L and 1LT trims, produced 193 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque but was underpowered and noisy. The 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine, standard on the 2LT, 3LT, and Premier trims, delivered 227 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The preferred engine was the 3.6-liter V6, standard on the RS trim, producing 308 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. The Blazer's V6 engine, combined with a sport-tuned suspension and mechanical torque-vectoring rear axle, provided a strong and agile driving experience. However, the transmission's slow responses and lack of paddle shifters were notable drawbacks. Fuel economy for the AWD V6 was 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5's interior was designed for comfort and functionality. The seating position and distance to the center stack were typical for its class, with good headroom in both rows. However, legroom for rear passengers was limited. The CX-5 had two full LATCH connections in the rear outboard seats and a tether connector in the middle seat. Climate controls were straightforward and easy to use. Cargo space was below average, with 30.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 59.6 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer offered comfortable seating for four, with seats mounted lower into the floor for easy entry and exit. Visibility was a challenge due to poor sightlines, but large side-view mirrors and optional rear-view camera improved it. Cargo space was 64 cubic feet with the rear seat folded and 30 cubic feet when raised. The Blazer could tow up to 4,500 pounds with the V6 engine and trailering package. Controls were user-friendly, with features like movable rings around the air vents for temperature adjustment and a hands-free power tailgate.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came standard with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen. While the screen size was impressive, the operating system was less so, with a cluttered interface and difficult-to-use knob controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, providing a workaround for the infotainment system's shortcomings.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer featured an 8-inch touchscreen with Chevrolet Infotainment 3, known for its simplicity and speed. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard. The RS trim with the Driver Confidence II package added wireless phone charging, LED headlights, 360 cameras, adaptive cruise control, and the Safety Alert Seat. The "Plus" version of the infotainment system included navigation, 4G WiFi, and better voice recognition. Unique features like the Marketplace app for contactless payments and Amazon Alexa compatibility were also available.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning. Optional features included a head-up display, reverse automatic emergency braking, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2021 Chevrolet Blazer also received high safety ratings, with a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top "Good" ratings from the IIHS. However, its headlights received "Marginal" and "Poor" ratings. Standard safety features included a driver's knee airbag and enhanced forward emergency braking. Rear emergency braking and GM's inboard side airbag were not available.