2023 Mazda CX-5 vs 2024 Chevrolet Suburban

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, remained a strong contender in the compact crossover SUV market. It was known for its stylish design and high-quality materials, giving it a feel akin to a small luxury SUV. The available turbocharged engine provided impressive power, and the model boasted a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. However, its small back seat, limited cargo space, and frustrating infotainment system were potential drawbacks. Mazda's decision to transition the CX-5 to the CX-50 was a strategic move, similar to Infiniti's rebranding of the G37 to the Q50 and Q60, aiming to ease consumers into the change while maintaining the model's loyal customer base.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban, a long-standing name in the automotive world, was a familiar sight on the roads due to its massive size and practicality. Measuring nearly 19 feet in length and over six feet in height, it was not ideal for urban environments but excelled in providing ample cargo and passenger space. The Suburban was available in six trims, each offering a range of features from basic to luxurious. While the top-tier High Country trim offered premium options, some features like power running-board steps and a panoramic moonroof were additional costs. Inside, the Suburban provided a comfortable cabin with leather upholstery in higher trims, though the interior felt somewhat pedestrian despite its size.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a more powerful 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder delivering up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. The turbocharged engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD, provided a dynamic driving experience, especially on winding roads. The CX-5's structural and suspension updates improved its ride quality, making it feel more like an entry-level luxury vehicle. However, fuel economy was a concern, with the turbo model achieving 21.4 mpg in real-world testing, below the EPA's estimate.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban offered three engine choices: a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque, a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-liter turbodiesel six-cylinder with 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. The diesel engine was particularly appealing for its fuel efficiency and lower cost on the High Country trim. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and the Suburban's size was managed well by its steering and brakes. The RWD was standard, with 4WD available on most trims, and the air suspension provided a comfortable ride despite the vehicle's large dimensions.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 featured improved front seats for better comfort and support, with power adjustments and heated options available on higher trims. The Signature trim offered luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. However, the CX-5's interior space was limited, with small storage areas and a cramped back seat. Cargo space was also modest, with 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with them folded down, less than many competitors.

In contrast, the 2024 Chevrolet Suburban excelled in cargo capacity, offering 41.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 93.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 144.7 cubic feet. This made it ideal for families needing ample space for road trips and towing. The Suburban also featured a 28-gallon fuel tank, allowing for long-distance travel without frequent refueling.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system, despite its appealing 10.25-inch display, was criticized for its awkward controls and lack of a voice recognition system. The system required memorization and focus, making it potentially distracting. However, it included features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose audio system on higher trims. The test vehicle also had a front-facing camera and a surround-view camera system.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban's infotainment system, with a 10.2-inch touchscreen on most trims, was user-friendly and featured Google Built-in for seamless access to apps like Google Maps and Google Assistant. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were standard, and a rear-seat entertainment system was available. However, the 10-speaker Bose audio system lacked the depth of sound found in competitors' systems.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS. Its i-Activsense suite included advanced driver assistance features, with additional options on higher trims. However, a lack of a warning for driving without headlights was noted as a concern.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with four stars in frontal crashes, five in side crashes, and three in rollovers. It came with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, and higher trims offered Super Cruise, a semi-autonomous driving system, as an option.