2024 Mazda CX-5 vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2023 Acura MDX presented a blend of luxury and subtlety, especially in its Type S Advance trim. This model, with its Apex Blue Pearl paint and Orchid interior, aimed to set high expectations for quality and driving dynamism. However, it occasionally fell short of these aspirations. The MDX Type S, the first Acura SUV to sport the Type S badge, maintained a subdued appearance with chicane-design LED lights and 21-inch wheels. Inside, it featured perforated Milano leather and a Sport Appearance package, though some design choices, like the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, were less user-friendly.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its appealing design from its 2017 debut, with minor updates for the new model year. The test vehicle, a Carbon Turbo trim, showcased Zircon Sand paint and Terracotta leather seats, exuding a modern and stylish vibe. Mazda's enhancements included improved fuel economy for the base engine, wireless charging, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The CX-5 lineup offered a range of trims, with the Turbo models delivering up to 256 horsepower. Despite being a compact crossover, the CX-5's interior materials and technology upgrades provided an upscale feel at a mainstream price.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S stood out with its turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, producing 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, aimed to deliver a thrilling driving experience. However, the performance enhancements didn't fully integrate, leading to issues like an indecisive transmission and poor brake pedal modulation. The MDX Type S struggled with fuel efficiency, averaging 16.9 mpg, below its EPA rating. While it offered various driving modes, the vehicle's dynamic components didn't work harmoniously, making it less predictable and enjoyable for driving enthusiasts.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo, with its turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivered 256 horsepower on premium gas and 227 hp on regular. The powertrain was more rewarding with a gradual acceleration approach, though it wasn't fuel-efficient, averaging 22.9 mpg. The CX-5's driving experience was marked by excellent outward visibility, a smooth ride, and responsive handling. Mazda's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced cornering, and the vehicle felt stable and fun on twisty roads. With 7.9 inches of ground clearance, the CX-5 could handle light off-road trails, and it offered a towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered three rows of seating, accommodating up to seven passengers. The Type S Advance trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. However, the seats didn't provide the expected support for spirited driving. The second-row seats could slide and tilt for easier third-row access, though the third row was best suited for children. The MDX's cargo space was practical, with 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 71.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Despite its functionality, the interior design prioritized style over storage space.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5, while smaller in interior space, offered comfortable seating for four adults. The front seats were redesigned for comfort and support, with six-way power adjustment for the driver. The rear seat provided good support and a proper sitting position, with rear air conditioning vents and a center armrest enhancing passenger comfort. The CX-5's cabin design and quality rivaled luxury brands, and storage space was adequate. The cargo area offered 30 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded, though it was less than some competitors in the compact segment.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display, but the lack of a touchscreen was a drawback. Instead, Acura used a True Touchpad Interface, which was less intuitive and took up valuable console space. The MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In, but the native voice recognition system was frustrating. The top-tier ELS Studio 3D audio system provided excellent sound quality, and the Advance package added a 10.5-inch head-up display. However, the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread signs, leading to potential safety concerns.

Mazda's approach in the 2024 CX-5 avoided touchscreens, favoring traditional controls for various functions. However, the infotainment system allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which were available wirelessly in several trims. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a console-mounted knob, with quick access buttons for main functions. While the native voice interface wasn't as intuitive, pairing a smartphone for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto improved the experience. Mazda Connected Services offered remote engine starting and other features, and the Bose premium sound system in the Carbon Turbo trim added to the premium feel.

The 2023 Acura MDX came equipped with Acura Watch, a suite of driving assistance and collision avoidance systems. These included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The MDX also featured blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, with additional safety features available in higher trims. While the Acura Watch systems were generally accurate, some issues like false lane-departure notifications and a collision warning due to misreading an overhead sign were concerning. The MDX earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA, though it received four stars for frontal-impact protection.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights, traffic sign recognition, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5's standard ADAS performed well, with non-intrusive lane departure and lane-keeping systems. The adaptive headlights were particularly effective on dark roads. While the CX-5 didn't earn a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS in 2024, it received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating.