2022 Mazda CX-5 vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 presented a subtle evolution in its design, with new LED headlights and taillights that offered more distinctive illumination. The exterior updates included redesigned bumpers, a revised grille, and a fresh rear liftgate, along with new alloy wheel designs. The top-tier Signature trim featured body-color lower exterior trim, emphasizing Mazda's ambition to position itself as a premium brand. Inside, the CX-5 retained its luxurious feel, especially in the Signature trim, with premium Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. The seats were new for 2022, promising improved comfort, and the trim levels were restructured, offering a choice between the CX-5 2.5 S and the CX-5 2.5 Turbo, with the latter boasting a turbocharged engine.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC90 showcased a significant departure from Volvo's past boxy designs, presenting a purposeful yet understated appearance. The front end was solid and assertive, with the grille and "Thor’s Hammer" headlights adding a modern touch. The XC90's dimensions remained somewhat rectilinear, but it was far from the utilitarian designs of the past. The test vehicle featured 21-inch wheels and a Platinum Gray paint with brown undertones, adding depth to its appearance. Inside, the XC90 exuded elegance with two-tone leather on the steering wheel, metal Bowers and Wilkins speaker covers, an Orrefors crystal shift knob, and luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. The minimalist design was complemented by wood deco inlays, though the lack of physical controls could be a point of contention for some.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options. The 2.5 S model came with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a revised six-speed automatic transmission for improved responsiveness. All CX-5 models featured standard all-wheel drive, and the 2.5 S achieved an EPA-rated 26 mpg in combined driving. The 2.5 Turbo variant, when fueled with premium gas, delivered 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque, with a slightly lower fuel economy of 24 mpg combined. The CX-5's driving dynamics were enhanced with increased structural rigidity and reworked suspension tuning, offering a quieter and smoother ride with reduced body roll and improved handling.

For the 2023 Volvo XC90, Volvo introduced the B5 and B6 engines, both featuring mild-hybrid technology. The B5 engine, with a turbocharger and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, produced 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The B6 powertrain, similar to the previous T6, combined a supercharger and turbocharger with mild-hybrid tech, delivering 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The mild-hybrid system improved fuel efficiency slightly and provided smoother operation. The XC90's driving experience was enjoyable, with quick acceleration and a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle's large wheels and thin tires contributed to its stability through corners, and the brakes offered a confident pedal feel.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints about its ride and seating with new, more supportive seats and a sportier driving position. Most trims included a height-adjustable front passenger seat, and the 2.5 Turbo model featured leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and heated and ventilated front seats. The back seat remained snug, but heated cushions and air vents improved passenger comfort. The control layout, however, was frustrating due to the lack of a touchscreen and natural voice recognition. Cargo space was adequate, with 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 offered a peaceful and pleasant front-seat experience, though storage space was limited. The second row was comfortable but challenging to adjust, and accessing the third row was difficult with the standard bench seat. Cargo space was 12.5 cubic feet with the third row in use, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with it folded, and 65.5 cubic feet with all rear seats down. The XC90's smaller size compared to typical three-row SUVs contributed to its car-like driving feel.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 featured a 10.25-inch Mazda Connect infotainment system, which lacked a touchscreen and natural voice recognition. Users had to rely on center console and steering wheel controls, which could be cumbersome. 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.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's tech was centered around a 9-inch vertical touchscreen running Google OS, with Google Maps, Spotify, and Google Assistant integrated. The system's natural-language recognition was a highlight, allowing voice commands via Google Home devices. However, the reliance on the touchscreen for many functions could be frustrating, and more physical controls would have been appreciated.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 came with a comprehensive i-Activsense package, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights and a surround-view camera system. The CX-5 earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 was equipped with advanced safety tech, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. It supported Volvo's Pilot Assist technology for maintaining distance and speed. The XC90 received a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.