2023 Land Rover Defender vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Land Rover Defender was a standout in the SUV market, outselling its sibling, the Land Rover Discovery, by a significant margin. Its design harkened back to the classic boxy style of the old LR4, which resonated with customers who preferred a traditional Land Rover aesthetic over the Discovery's more Ford-like appearance. The Defender's design was characterized by its square-jawed face, rectangular hood, and doors, all set parallel to the ground, with a sharply chopped tail that defined its classic truck look. Tasteful nods to the original 1980s Defender, such as the dome and faux-metal step plates on the hood, skylights along the roof, and body-color squares separating the side glass, added to its appeal. The Defender was available in three body styles: the short two-door 90, the medium-length four-door 110, and the extended-length four-door 130, offering a range of choices for consumers.

Inside, the Defender maintained a focus on function and durability, with an interior that was basic yet unique. Despite its high price, the interior was coated in rubbers and plastics designed to resist moisture and stains, with exposed screws and plain-looking air vents. The steering wheel was reminiscent of an old Toyota, and the overall feel was more utilitarian than luxurious. However, the build quality and fit were excellent, and the Defender's hardcore character remained intact, offering a refreshing contrast to the more opulent Range Rover models. While some might have found the price excessive, the Defender's popularity suggested that many buyers appreciated its unique charm.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its familiar design, which had aged gracefully since its second-generation debut in 2017. The model continued to look modern and appealing, with the new Carbon Turbo trim adding a fresh touch. This trim featured Zircon Sand paint, exclusive Terracotta leather seats with black artificial suede inserts, and a black headliner, enhancing its visual appeal. Mazda's decision to use Zircon Sand across several models worked well for the CX-5, complemented by gloss-black exterior detailing. The CX-5 lineup included 2.5 S and 2.5 Turbo models, with the S offering a 187-horsepower engine and the Turbo providing up to 256 horsepower on premium gas.

Mazda made several improvements to the 2024 CX-5, including better fuel economy for the base engine, wireless charging, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for select trims. The CX-5's interior was upgraded over the years, resulting in an upscale crossover SUV at a mainstream price. The Carbon Turbo test vehicle, priced at $39,355, felt worth the amount, offering a comfortable and supportive interior with standard heated front seats. While the CX-5 was among the smaller models in its segment, it provided a comfortable ride for four adults, with good rear seat support and thoughtful features like rear air conditioning vents and a center fold-down armrest.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender excelled in off-road performance, showcasing its incredible grip, wheel articulation, and clearance. Its air suspension allowed it to tackle challenging trails with ease, although most owners were unlikely to use its full capabilities. On-road, the Defender's performance was less impressive, with excessive body roll, slow steering, and noticeable wind noise. The V8 engine, however, provided a thrilling experience with 518 horsepower and 461 pound-feet of torque, making it a formidable force on straight roads. The six-cylinder engine, part of a 48-volt mild hybrid powertrain, offered 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, delivering a seamless driving experience. The Defender's fuel economy varied, with the V8 returning 14/19/16 mpg, while the six-cylinder achieved 18/23/20 mpg.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo offered a different driving experience, with its turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium gas. The powertrain was more rewarding when driven with a steady foot, allowing the torque to build gradually. The CX-5's fuel economy was less impressive, with an EPA rating of 24 mpg combined, and our test observed 22.9 mpg. The CX-5's driving dynamics were enhanced by a re-tuned suspension, a stiffer frame, and standard all-wheel drive, resulting in a smoother ride and responsive handling. The G-Vectoring Control Plus technology improved cornering, and the CX-5 felt quiet and connected on the road, offering a sophisticated driving experience.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender offered unmatched seating configurations, with the ability to seat up to eight passengers in the 130 model. The Defender 90 could seat six with an optional jump seat, while the 110 offered an optional third row. The 130's third row provided additional comfort with a separate moonroof, air vents, and USB ports. The Defender's cargo space varied by model, with the 130 offering 77 cubic feet with seats folded, while the 90 and 110 provided 58 and 79 cubic feet, respectively. The Defender's versatility extended to its off-road capabilities, with options for off-road or all-season tires, a metal roof rack, and various accessories like a console refrigerator and a winch.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5, while smaller in interior space, offered a comfortable ride for four adults. The standard heated front seats were redesigned for comfort and support, with the driver’s seat providing six-way power adjustment. The CX-5's interior was elevated by quality materials, with leather standard on most trims and premium Nappa leather on the top-tier Signature model. The rear seat offered good support and thoughtful features like rear air conditioning vents and a center armrest. The CX-5's cargo space was 30 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded, which was less than some competitors but sufficient for most needs.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender featured two touchscreen infotainment systems running Pivi Pro software, with a standard 10-inch screen and an optional 11.4-inch display. Both screens were quick and easy to use, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a voice assistant, and navigation as standard features. The Defender offered various trim levels with different features, including heated seats, a Meridian stereo, and advanced systems like adaptive cruise control and a head-up display. The X trim added air suspension and a locking rear differential, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 took a different approach, favoring traditional switchgear over touchscreens to reduce driver distraction. However, it offered touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless connectivity available on several trims. The 10.25-inch display was controlled via a large knob and surrounding buttons, providing a user-friendly experience. Mazda Connected Services offered remote engine starting, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and more. The CX-5's premium sound system, standard in the Carbon Turbo, added to the vehicle's upscale feel.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender had not been rated by U.S. safety organizations but received a five-star rating from Euro NCAP. It came with six airbags and standard safety features like lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Optional features included a digital instrument panel, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 was equipped with advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered additional safety features like adaptive headlights and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 had previously received a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating.