2022 Mazda CX-5 vs 2022 Kia EV6

The 2022 Kia EV6 was a visual treat, sporting a sleek and sporty design reminiscent of a Ford Mustang Mach-E. It featured a lower and wider stance, with wheels pushed to the corners of the chassis, giving it a muscular look. The highback tail with a lip spoiler that doubled as a lightbar, and the squinting headlights tracing a V-shaped pattern, added to its aggressive aesthetic. The interior was equally impressive, with dual 12-inch screens, a floating center console, and seats covered in faux suede and leather, creating a futuristic yet driver-focused environment.

In contrast, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 maintained a more traditional SUV look with subtle updates. New LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, and a redesigned grille gave it a refreshed appearance. The top-of-the-line Signature trim featured body-color lower exterior trim, enhancing its premium appeal. Inside, the CX-5 retained its luxurious feel with Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. The new seats provided improved comfort, and the overall interior design exuded a sense of upscale refinement.

The 2022 Kia EV6 GT-Line e-AWD, with its dual electric motors producing 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque, was a powerhouse. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds, offering a thrilling driving experience. The top-power GT trim, expected in fall 2022, promised even more excitement with 576 hp and a 0-60 time of under 3.5 seconds. However, the base EV6 Light, with its 167 hp motor, was less impressive. The EV6 excelled in handling, with quick torque delivery and multiple regenerative braking settings, allowing for one-pedal driving. Despite its performance, the EV6's driving range was disappointing in cold weather, achieving only 65% of its 274-mile EPA estimate.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, offering competitive performance for a base engine. The 2.5 Turbo variant, running on premium gas, delivered 256 hp and 320 pound-feet of torque, providing a more exhilarating drive. The revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive enhanced the driving experience. The CX-5's ride and handling were significantly improved, offering a quieter and smoother ride with reduced body roll and increased structural rigidity. The driving dynamics were more refined, making it a legitimate alternative to entry-level luxury SUVs.

The 2022 Kia EV6 reinvented several core functions, including pop-out door handles, paddle shifters, and a twisting rotary shifter. The climate controls and stereo shortcuts were combined in a thin touchscreen, which could be frustrating to use while driving. The interior offered generous legroom and headroom, with reclining rear seats and optional heated cushions. However, the cargo space was limited, with only 24 cubic feet behind the seats and 50 cubic feet when folded. Towing capacity was rated at 2,300 pounds, and the onboard power generator could run 120-volt equipment or charge another EV.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints with new, more comfortable seats and a sportier driving position. The interior featured dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The back seat remained snug but offered heated outboard cushions and air conditioning vents. The control layout, while not touchscreen, became easier to use over time. Storage space was adequate, with a small center armrest bin and wireless smartphone charging. Cargo space was 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded, comparing favorably to entry-level luxury SUVs.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was user-friendly, with dual 12-inch screens and a head-up display with augmented reality. However, it lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Highway Driving Assist (HDA) system, blind-spot monitoring, and 360-degree cameras were impressive, though the lane-change feature was inconsistent. Higher trims offered a 14-speaker Meridian stereo and a remote parking system. Kia Connect features were disabled for Massachusetts residents due to compliance issues.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display, operated via center console and steering wheel controls. It lacked a touchscreen and natural voice recognition, making it less intuitive. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a three-year trial of Mazda Connected Services. The 2.5 S Premium trim and above included a 10-speaker Bose sound system, which performed adequately. SiriusXM satellite radio was also standard from this trim level.

The 2022 Kia EV6 came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane-keeping, cyclist and pedestrian detection, front and rear cross-traffic alert, and a driver attention monitor. Higher trims added front parking sensors, automatic rear braking, 360 cameras, and evasive steering assist. However, there were no published test results from any U.S. safety organizations.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 boasted a robust i-Activsense package, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera system, front and rear parking sensors, automatic rear braking, and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, underscoring its safety credentials.