2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs 2023 Mazda CX-50

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was a fresh take on electrified mobility, distinct from its predecessor, the original Ioniq. It featured a minimalist yet intricate exterior design, characterized by the Parametric Pixel theme, which incorporated numerous LED lights and pixelated elements. The Ioniq 5's aerodynamic wheels and unique design details, such as the silver-contrast plastic bits, added to its futuristic appeal. Inside, the Ioniq 5 offered a serene and spacious cabin with sustainable materials and a "Living Space" design theme, providing a relaxing environment with features like the "Relaxation" mode for the driver's seat.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-50 showcased a blend of elegance and ruggedness. Its exterior design included a blunt nose, long hood, and rakish windshield, combined with rugged elements like blistered fender swells and oversized air intakes. The CX-50's interior was driver-focused, featuring quality materials, polished metallic trim, and a mix of analog and digital gauges. The cabin was comfortable, with heated and ventilated seats, dual-zone climate control, and ample rear-seat space. The CX-50's design aimed to balance sophistication with a touch of adventure.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 offered three trims (SE, SEL, and Limited) and two drive configurations (RWD and AWD). The base SE Standard Range model featured a 128-kW rear-mounted electric motor with 168 horsepower and a range of 220 miles. The extended-range models, available in SE, SEL, and Limited trims, had a 168-kW rear motor producing 225 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, with a range of 303 miles. The AWD variants combined a 74-kW front motor and a 165-kW rear motor, delivering 320 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque, with a range of 256 miles. The Ioniq 5's performance was solid, with a 0-60 mph time of under 5 seconds in AWD configuration, and it featured four drive modes, including Sport mode for added excitement.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 came in two versions: the 2.5 S and the 2.5 Turbo. The 2.5 S model had a 187 hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and AWD. It was expected to achieve 27 mpg in combined driving. The 2.5 Turbo variant featured a turbocharged engine producing up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on 93-octane fuel, with a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The CX-50 offered Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing modes, ensuring versatile performance. The turbocharged engine provided smooth acceleration, and the CX-50 handled well on various road conditions, though it exhibited some torque steer during tight turns.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 utilized the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), offering a spacious interior with a long wheelbase of 118.1 inches. It provided 133.7 cubic feet of total interior volume, surpassing competitors like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Volkswagen ID.4. The Ioniq 5's cabin featured soft touchpoints, a moveable center console, and comfortable leatherette seats. The interior design emphasized comfort and utility, with ample passenger space and innovative features like a modern take on the retro front bench seat.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 offered a comfortable and well-equipped interior. The top trim included power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. The back seat was roomy, with rear air vents and charging ports. The CX-50 provided 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 56.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The interior design focused on driver comfort and convenience, though storage space was somewhat limited. The available power rear liftgate and thoughtful cargo area features added to its practicality.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 featured advanced technology, including a high-voltage, energy-dense system with vehicle-to-load capabilities. It supported ultra-fast charging, reaching 80% battery capacity in 18 minutes, and offered a redesigned Blue Link connected car app. The Ioniq 5's infotainment system included 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment, with an anti-glare coating for clear visibility. The vehicle also provided a digital key, enhanced smartphone pairing, and over-the-air updates.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 came with the Mazda Connect infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mazda Connected Services. The base model had an 8.8-inch display, while higher trims featured a 10.25-inch display. Mazda Connect's interface was not touchscreen-friendly, but the CX-50 allowed touchscreen control for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available 12-speaker Bose Centerpoint surround-sound system provided a satisfying audio experience. The CX-50 also offered an Active Driving Display (HUD) with useful data projections.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was equipped with Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS). Standard features included blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, and front- and rear-collision avoidance. The Ioniq 5 also featured Hyundai Highway Drive Assist I, a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system with machine-learning adaptive cruise control. Additionally, it offered a head-up display (HUD) with augmented reality overlays for navigation and other information.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 was expected to perform well in safety tests, similar to other Mazda models. It came with a comprehensive package of driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane-centering, active blind-spot monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-50's driving assistance systems generally worked well, though the adaptive cruise control occasionally failed to recognize slower vehicles cutting in.