2023 Mazda CX-50 vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 showcased a design that was both familiar and fresh. Its styling, characterized by a blunt nose, long hood, and rakish windshield, maintained the subtle allure that Mazda vehicles have been known for over the past decade. However, the CX-50 introduced a ruggedness with its pronounced fender swells, bold lower body cladding, and faux skid plates. These elements, combined with a standard black grille and available 20-inch wheels, created an appealing exterior. The interior of the CX-50 was equally impressive, featuring black leather with caramel stitching and a driver-focused design. Despite a few design quirks, such as the off-center air vent, the cabin exuded quality and sophistication.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC90 marked a significant departure from Volvo's past boxy designs. The XC90 presented a purposeful yet understated appearance, with a solid front end and a grille that was assertive without being flashy. The "Thor’s Hammer" headlights added a modern touch, and the overall shape, while still somewhat rectilinear, was far from the utilitarian designs of the past. Inside, the XC90 offered an elegant and minimalist design, with luxurious materials like Nappa leather and wood deco inlays. The cabin was a blend of sophistication and functionality, though it lacked ample storage space for smaller items. Despite these minor inconveniences, the XC90's interior was a testament to Scandinavian design principles.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 offered two engine options. The 2.5 S model featured a 187-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 186 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. This version was expected to achieve 27 mpg in combined driving. For those seeking more power, the 2.5 Turbo variant provided between 227 hp and 256 hp, depending on the fuel used, with torque ranging from 310 lb-ft to 320 lb-ft. The turbocharged engine offered smooth acceleration and a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds. The CX-50's driving experience was likened to a modern Mazda6 station wagon, with a firm ride quality and a hint of torque steer during tight turns.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced new B5 and B6 engines, both featuring mild-hybrid technology. The B5 engine produced 247 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the B6 engine delivered 295 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. These powertrains offered improved fuel efficiency and smoother operation, though the gains were minimal. The XC90's driving experience was enjoyable, with quick acceleration and a well-tuned eight-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle handled corners with minimal roll, and road noise was effectively insulated. The XC90's brakes provided a confident feel, and while it lacked extensive off-road capabilities, it excelled in providing a comfortable and composed ride.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50's interior was designed for comfort and practicality. It featured power-adjustable heated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. The ventilated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control were particularly useful in warmer climates. The driver and front passenger seats were comfortable for long journeys, though they could benefit from additional side bolstering. The rear seat offered ample space for adults, and the rear doors opened wide for easy access. Cargo space was adequate, with 31.4 cubic feet available behind the rear seats and a maximum of 56.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's interior was a blend of elegance and minimalism, though it faced some storage challenges. The front seats were comfortable, but the lack of dedicated storage for small items was noticeable. The second row was spacious, but accessing the third row was difficult with the standard bench seat. The XC90 offered 12.5 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 65.5 cubic feet. While the XC90 drove like a smaller vehicle, its cargo capacity fell short compared to some competitors.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 came equipped with the Mazda Connect infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The base model included an 8.8-inch display, while higher trims offered a 10.25-inch screen. Mazda Connect traditionally lacked touchscreen functionality, but the CX-50 allowed touchscreen control for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available 12-speaker Bose sound system provided a satisfying audio experience, and the Active Driving Display offered useful information within the driver's line of sight.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system running on Google OS, with Google Maps, Spotify, and Google Assistant integrated. The 12.3-inch driver information display complemented the system, and natural-language recognition enhanced the user experience. However, the reliance on the touchscreen for many functions could be frustrating, and the lack of physical buttons was a drawback. Despite these challenges, the XC90's tech offerings were impressive, and the integration with Google Home devices added convenience.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 was expected to perform well in safety tests, though official ratings were not available at the time of review. It offered a comprehensive package of driving assistance systems, with additional features available on the top trim level. These included Traffic Jam Assist, active blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. While the systems generally worked well, the adaptive cruise control occasionally failed to recognize slower vehicles cutting in.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety, earning a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS. It came standard with advanced driver safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. These features supported Volvo's Pilot Assist technology, which maintained distance and lane position at various speeds. The XC90's safety credentials were a testament to Volvo's commitment to protecting its occupants.