2023 Mazda CX-5 vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover underwent a subtle evolution rather than a radical redesign. Its front and side profiles remained largely unchanged, maintaining the broad, rounded face and expansive sheet metal of its predecessor. A notable update was the vertical accent strip under the mirrors, replacing the previous L-shaped trim. The rear of the vehicle saw the most significant change, with the introduction of thin LED taillights integrated into a darker trim, replacing the old square lights. Inside, the Range Rover's cabin was simplified with fewer buttons and a larger tablet-like touchscreen, enhancing its modern appeal. The interior boasted premium materials, including high-quality leather and rich wood trim, contributing to a luxurious atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, continued to impress with its stylish design and high-quality materials, giving it the feel of a small luxury SUV. The CX-5 offered two engine options: a standard 187-horsepower four-cylinder and a more powerful 256-horsepower turbocharged variant. The vehicle's updates included improved structural rigidity, enhanced suspension dampening, and reduced interior noise, making it feel more refined. The CX-5's driving dynamics were praised for their sporty nature, with responsive steering and brakes, making it a joy to drive on various road conditions. However, the CX-5's infotainment system was a point of contention, with its non-touchscreen interface proving cumbersome and distracting.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered two powertrain options. The base P400 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. The more powerful P530 variant boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine, delivering 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The P400 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, impressive for its nearly 6,000-pound weight. The Range Rover's handling was surprisingly agile, with well-managed body roll and standard rear-wheel steering for improved maneuverability. Its off-road capabilities were enhanced by the Terrain Response system, while the ride quality remained smooth and quiet.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The turbocharged 2.5-liter engine provided 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium fuel, or 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet on regular gas. The CX-5's updates included increased structural rigidity, improved suspension, and reduced interior noise, enhancing its driving dynamics. The turbocharged engine delivered quick acceleration, with torque arriving at 2,000 rpm on regular gas and 2,500 rpm on premium. The CX-5's handling was praised for its firm, connected ride quality, making it enjoyable to drive on various road surfaces.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered ample space in the first two rows, with large windows and a panoramic sunroof enhancing the sense of spaciousness. The front seats were comfortable, with available massage functions, and there was plenty of storage space for personal items. The second row provided generous space for taller passengers, with power recline and sliding adjustments. The optional third row was accessible with a button, though headroom was limited for adults. Cargo space behind the third row was 17.1 cubic feet, expanding to 43.1 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 93 cubic feet with the second row down. The split tailgate and adjustable air suspension made loading cargo easier.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 featured improved front seats for better comfort and support, with power adjustments available on higher trims. The Signature trim offered luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. However, the CX-5's interior space was limited, with smaller storage areas, a cramped back seat, and less cargo space compared to rivals. The cargo area provided 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the back seat folded. While the CX-5's materials were top-notch, its technology and storage space left room for improvement.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover featured a new 13-inch touchscreen with the Pivi Pro infotainment system, offering sharper graphics and quicker responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a wireless charging pad. The Meridian audio system provided excellent sound quality, with an optional 35-speaker upgrade available. Other tech features included Amazon Alexa integration, remote automated parking, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and remote control via a smartphone app.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system featured a 10.25-inch display with sophisticated graphics but was criticized for its non-touchscreen interface. The system's physical controls were awkward to use, requiring memorization and focus away from the road. Despite this, the system offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a three-year trial of Mazda Connected Services. Upper trims included a 10-speaker Bose audio system and a surround-view camera system for easier parking.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover came standard with a suite of safety features, including frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and a surround-view camera system. While crash test results were unavailable, the Range Rover's safety features performed well during testing.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with the i-Activsense suite offering standard driver assistance features. Exclusive to the 2.5 Turbo Signature were a surround-view camera system, parking sensors, rear low-speed automatic emergency braking, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. However, a warning for driving without headlights at night was needed.