2023 Mazda CX-30 vs 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was a bold step into the future of electrified mobility, marking a departure from the original Ioniq's hybrid roots. This new model was the first in Hyundai's Ioniq sub-brand, dedicated solely to electric vehicles. Its exterior design was a mix of minimalistic lines and intricate Parametric Pixel elements, giving it a concept car-like appearance. The lighting design was particularly striking, with pixelated LEDs used throughout, creating a futuristic yet somewhat overwhelming aesthetic. Inside, the Ioniq 5 offered a serene "Living Space" environment, with a focus on comfort and sustainability. The interior featured stain-resistant cloth or leatherette upholstery, recycled materials, and a unique Relaxation mode for the driver's seat, emphasizing a tranquil driving experience.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-30 presented a more traditional yet upscale design. Its exterior was characterized by a long hood and sleek lines, though somewhat marred by excessive gray body cladding. Inside, the CX-30 offered a refined cabin with quality materials, including leather upholstery in higher trims. The interior design was elegant, with a tasteful combination of colors and materials, giving it an entry-level luxury feel. However, the front passenger seat lacked the adjustability found in the driver's seat, and rear legroom was tight. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-30's interior was well-appointed, with thoughtful storage solutions and a focus on driver comfort.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 offered a range of powertrains and configurations, catering to different driving preferences. It came in SE, SEL, and Limited trims, with rear-wheel drive as standard and all-wheel drive as an option. The base SE Standard Range model featured a 128-kW rear motor producing 168 horsepower and a range of 220 miles. The extended-range models, available in RWD and AWD, offered more power and range, with the AWD version delivering 320 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque, albeit with a reduced range of 256 miles. The Ioniq 5's performance was solid for a midsize crossover, with a focus on comfort and control rather than sporty dynamics. It featured four drive modes, including Sport, which added excitement but reduced range. The vehicle's quiet cabin and advanced regenerative braking system further enhanced the driving experience.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30, on the other hand, offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 191 hp and a turbocharged version with up to 250 hp on premium fuel. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The CX-30 excelled in handling, thanks to its G-Vectoring Control Plus technology and well-tuned suspension, making it a joy to drive on twisty roads. However, its small fuel tank limited its range, and the brake pedal required more effort than expected. Despite these issues, the CX-30's turbocharged engine provided robust acceleration and a satisfying driving experience, especially in Sport mode.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5's E-GMP platform allowed for a spacious interior, with a longer wheelbase than even the seven-passenger Hyundai Palisade. It offered 133.7 cubic feet of total interior volume, prioritizing passenger comfort over cargo space. The interior featured a moveable center console and a modern take on the retro front bench seat, enhancing versatility and ease of access. The leatherette seats were comfortable and supportive, catering to a wide range of body types.

In comparison, the 2023 Mazda CX-30 provided a comfortable driver's seat with standard dual-zone climate control and heated front seats in most trims. However, the front passenger seat lacked adjustability, and rear legroom was limited. The CX-30 offered 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 45.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. While storage space was reasonable, the lack of underfloor storage and cargo organization options was a drawback.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was equipped with cutting-edge technology, including a high-voltage system with vehicle-to-load capabilities, allowing it to charge other devices and vehicles. It supported ultra-fast charging, reaching 80% battery capacity in just 18 minutes. The Ioniq 5 also featured a redesigned Blue Link app, digital key, and advanced multimedia features, including 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment, both with anti-glare coatings.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-30's Mazda Connect infotainment system had several shortcomings. It lacked a touchscreen display, relying on center console controls that required frequent glances away from the road. The voice-recognition system was not conversational, and the absence of a tuning knob was inconvenient. Despite these issues, the system offered Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and connected services, with higher trims adding navigation and a Bose sound system.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 featured Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and collision avoidance. It also offered Hyundai Highway Drive Assist I, a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system with machine-learning adaptive cruise control. While crash-safety ratings were not yet available, Hyundai's track record suggested high safety standards.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 excelled in safety, earning an IIHS "Top Safety Pick" rating. It featured adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist as standard. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, a head-up display, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-30's safety systems worked well, though some responses were overly sensitive, as experienced during testing.