2024 Toyota 4Runner vs 2023 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, continued to be a strong contender in the compact crossover SUV market. It was praised for its stylish design and high-quality materials, which gave it the appearance and feel of a luxury vehicle. The CX-5 offered a turbocharged engine option that delivered impressive power, and it was recognized for its safety with a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. Although Mazda planned to transition the CX-5 to the CX-50, the CX-5 remained a popular choice for those seeking quality and sophistication in a compact SUV.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota 4Runner was seen as a nostalgic throwback, with its design largely unchanged since 2010. Its rugged, boxy shape was well-suited for off-road adventures, and the TRD Pro model enhanced this with features like underbody skid plates and all-terrain tires. However, the interior felt outdated, with old-school styling and technology. While the 4Runner excelled in off-road capabilities, its on-road performance and interior comfort were less impressive, making it feel more like a vehicle from a bygone era.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 187 horsepower and a turbocharged version delivering up to 256 horsepower with premium fuel. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The turbocharged engine provided a thrilling driving experience, with ample torque and responsive handling, although fuel economy was slightly lower than expected during testing. The CX-5's updates in structural rigidity and suspension improved its driving dynamics, making it feel more like a luxury vehicle.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. While the power output was competitive, the transmission limited its responsiveness and fuel efficiency. The TRD Pro model featured standard four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case, enhancing its off-road capabilities. However, on-road performance was less impressive, with noticeable body roll and a noisy engine. The 4Runner's suspension was tuned for off-road use, resulting in a bouncy ride on paved roads.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's interior was refined, with high-quality materials and comfortable front seats. However, it lacked in technology, storage, and rear-seat space. The cargo area offered 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with them folded, which was less than some competitors. The infotainment system was a source of frustration, lacking a touchscreen and voice recognition, making it less user-friendly.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's interior felt dated, but it was functional and spacious. The front seats provided ample space, while the second row offered generous legroom. The cargo area was substantial, with 47.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 89.7 cubic feet with them folded. The 4Runner's design included practical features like a sliding rear window and a hitch receiver, but it lacked modern conveniences like a powered liftgate.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's infotainment system, Mazda Connect, featured a 10.25-inch display but was criticized for its complexity and lack of a touchscreen. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose audio system on upper trims. The system's controls were awkward, requiring memorization and focus away from the road, making it less intuitive than competitors' systems.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's infotainment system included an eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While it lacked off-road-specific apps, the TRD Pro model featured a JBL audio system. The system's controls were straightforward, but the small screen and road noise detracted from the audio experience. Additional terrain controls were available, but their pictogram labels required consulting the owner's manual for full understanding.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS. It included a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features under the i-Activsense banner, with advanced options on higher trims. However, it lacked a warning for driving without headlights at night, a potential safety concern.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner received mixed safety ratings, with four stars from NHTSA and varied results from IIHS. It included standard safety features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. The TRD Pro and Limited trims offered a surround-view camera, but the system's sensitivity could be intrusive. The 4Runner's safety features were comprehensive but not as refined as those in the CX-5.