2024 Toyota Sienna vs 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 stood out as a more rugged sibling to the CX-5, aiming to embody an adventurous spirit. It was 1.4 inches lower, 3 inches wider, and 5.7 inches longer than the CX-5, with a wheelbase stretched by 4.6 inches. This expanded size gave the CX-50 broad-shouldered proportions, emphasized by square wheel arches and faux air vents below the headlights and taillights.

In 2024, the CX-50 was available in eight trim levels, ranging from the 2.5 S Select to the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus. The lower trims came with 17-inch wheels, while the higher trims flaunted 20-inch wheels. Our test CX-50, the 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition, epitomized the active-lifestyle image with all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels, a black hood graphic, and pronounced rocker-panel trim.

Contrastingly, the 2024 Toyota Sienna cut a distinctive figure, evoking the "swagger wagon" vibe from its past commercials. Available in trims like LE, XLE, XSE, Woodland Edition, Limited, and Platinum, the Sienna sported sleek front and rear fascias and could be ordered in attractive deep blue, red, or green colors. LED lighting was standard, with upper trims sporting Bi-LED projector headlamps. Our XSE tester, positioned as the "sporty" trim, featured a black metallic mesh grille, black heated side mirrors, and dramatic 20-inch dark wheels.

The more adventurous Woodland Edition added roof rails with crossbars, a tow hitch, and an additional half-inch of ground clearance. Inside, the Sienna’s design emphasized spaciousness, while upper trims offered the luxury of ottomans in the second row. The fixed center console and abundant storage spaces made day-to-day usability impressive for a family vehicle.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, with turbocharging available on higher trims. The base engine produced 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, while the turbocharged version upped the game to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft on 93-octane gasoline, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on 87-octane fuel. A six-speed automatic transmission and AWD were standard. Turbo models boasted a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, compared to the base model's 2,000 pounds.

However, the CX-50 did not replicate the agile driving dynamics of its CX-5 counterpart, opting instead for a more routine ride quality. Our Meridian Edition’s all-terrain tires, while useful in adverse conditions, introduced noise and limited grip. The added roof platform also contributed to wind noise at higher speeds.

In comparison, the 2024 Toyota Sienna was exclusively hybrid, merging a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with dual electric motors to deliver a combined 245 hp. AWD versions used an additional electric motor for the rear wheels. Despite a sport-tuned suspension and a Sport mode in our XSE tester, the Sienna felt sluggish, particularly under acceleration, with a somewhat noisy CVT. However, it provided a smooth and unremarkable driving experience in city conditions, with light and accurate steering. For a more spirited drive, rivals like the Honda Odyssey, Kia Carnival, or Chrysler Pacifica might have been better suited.

Interior space and cargo capacity were essential factors for both the CX-50 and the Sienna. The 2024 Mazda CX-50 shared similar passenger space with the CX-5, though with slightly less headroom and more legroom in both rows. It offered 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 56.3 cubic feet when folded, slightly more spacious than the CX-5 with the second row up.

Compared to its rivals, including the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Kia Sportage, and Subaru Forester, the CX-50 fell behind in terms of overall cargo space but provided a practical layout with durable interior materials.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior functionality, offering a lower storage pass-through for bulkier items, multiple cupholders, and powered side doors. The second-row captain’s chairs could slide 25 inches forward and aft, delivering up to 40 inches of legroom, though these seats weren’t removable, limiting maximum cargo space.

The Sienna’s third row offered 39 inches of legroom when the second row was pushed forward, making it the best in its class. The rear liftgate revealed 33.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 75 cubic feet with the third row stowed and 101 cubic feet with the second row folded, making it superior to the CX-50 for cargo-hauling needs.

The technology suite of the 2024 Mazda CX-50 leaned towards minimalism. It featured a 10.25-inch infotainment screen controlled by a rotary dial and buttons rather than touch inputs. Wireless Apple CarPlay was standard, but Android Auto required a cable. Higher trims offered wireless charging, SiriusXM, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. While straightforward and less overwhelming, the CX-50’s infotainment felt dated with basic graphics but appealing to those favoring simplicity.

Conversely, the 2024 Toyota Sienna still used Toyota’s older infotainment tech with a nine-inch touchscreen supporting wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system included physical buttons for common functions, but the backup camera was disappointingly grainy. The Sienna also had plenty of USB ports and an optional 12-speaker JBL stereo system. Our XSE test model was equipped with a useful 1500-watt inverter with a 120-volt outlet, although activating it required a button press near the driver’s seat.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, with top “Good” scores in most crash tests and a “Superior” score for daytime vehicle-to-pedestrian front-crash prevention. However, it received lower scores for nighttime crash prevention and standard headlights. The NHTSA ratings were incomplete at the time, but it had a five-star frontal crash rating and a four-star rollover rating. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist.

The Toyota Sienna’s standard Toyota Safety Sense suite offered comprehensive safety features like lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and road sign recognition. Although the lane-keeping assist was not perfect, the Sienna’s safety package was robust. The Sienna earned high safety ratings, with five stars for side crash protection from the NHTSA and “Good” scores in IIHS crashworthiness tests. However, it was rated as “Average” in front crash prevention.