2020 Mazda CX-5 vs 2019 BMW X5

The 2019 BMW X5 was designed with a focus on delivering a sedan-like driving experience, despite its substantial 2,250-kilogram weight and tall stature. BMW's approach was to prioritize on-road comfort over off-road capabilities, a decision that initially drew criticism but ultimately aligned with consumer preferences for smooth pavement rides. The X5 offered a five-passenger layout, expandable to seven, though the third row was notably cramped. It featured two turbocharged engine options: a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder and a 4.4-litre V8, both paired with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. The base xDrive40i model came with a starting price of $71,500 and included a range of features such as adaptive LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, and a digital gauge cluster. Optional upgrades included a head-up display, wireless charging, and a rear-seat entertainment system.

In contrast, the 2020 Mazda CX-5 aimed to deliver a premium experience through captivating style and continual product improvements. The model year saw enhancements in standard equipment, cabin appearance, and noise reduction. The CX-5's turbocharged engine received a torque boost, and AWD models gained an off-road traction assistance feature. Prices ranged from $27,950 to $41,900, with trim levels including GX, GS, GT, GT Turbo, and Signature. The Signature trim featured premium Nappa leather upholstery and real wood accents, though the Caturra Brown leather lacked contrast. The CX-5's design, rooted in Mazda's "Kodo" styling, remained appealing and distinctive, offering a luxurious feel that many competitors struggled to match.

The 2019 BMW X5 was powered by a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine in the xDrive40i, delivering 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided a smooth and consistent power delivery, especially in Sport mode, and was paired with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission that offered improved efficiency and smoother shifts. The xDrive40i achieved a fuel economy of 11.7 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 9.1 on the highway, and 10.5 combined. For those seeking more power, the xDrive50i's twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 produced 456 hp and 479 lb-ft, allowing it to reach 100 km/h in approximately 4.7 seconds. The X5's ride quality was impressive, thanks to its Cluster Architecture platform and optional air suspension, which provided adjustable ride height and excellent bump absorption.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 offered a standard 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The GT Turbo and Signature trims featured a turbocharged version of this engine, producing 250 hp and 320 lb-ft on premium fuel, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular. The turbocharged engine, while powerful, was less efficient, with a combined fuel economy of 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres. The CX-5's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced its driving dynamics, but excessive body motions detracted from the overall experience. Despite this, the CX-5 remained engaging to drive, with responsive steering and brakes, making it enjoyable in typical driving situations.

Inside the 2019 BMW X5, the design shifted to aggressive angles and dual 12.3-inch screens for the iDrive infotainment system. While the design was appealing, the interior could feel less premium without optional upgrades like glass and ceramic buttons. The seats were somewhat uncomfortable, with limited adjustability and ventilation. However, the X5 offered ample space, with 960 litres of cargo capacity, expandable to 2,047 litres with the seats down. The air suspension facilitated easy loading, and the X5 could tow up to 3,000 kilograms when properly equipped.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5's interior focused on style and quality, with features like heated front seats and elegant metallic accents. The GS trim added power-adjustable seats and a heated steering wheel, while the GT included ventilated front seats and heated rear seats. The Signature trim offered Nappa leather and genuine wood trim. Despite its upscale cabin, the CX-5's interior was more cramped compared to competitors, with limited rear legroom. Cargo space measured 875 litres, expandable to 1,687 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2019 BMW X5's technology was a mixed bag. The gesture control and voice commands were often unresponsive, and the iDrive interface, while well-designed, required time to master. The driving-assistance features, offering limited hands-off driving, were unreliable at high speeds, leading to a frustrating experience. However, the adaptive cruise control and Parking Assistant Plus were effective, and the Harman Kardon stereo provided excellent sound quality.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 featured a Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The GT trim added SiriusXM, a Bose sound system, and navigation, while the Signature trim included a surround-view camera. The system required acclimation, with controls on the centre console and steering wheel, but the voice-recognition technology was unreliable. Mazda planned to update the system in 2021, addressing some operational issues.

The 2019 BMW X5 featured a new brake-by-wire setup, providing a nearly natural feel. It received a four-star rating from the NHTSA, with five stars in side crash tests, and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with standard ADAS features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. The GS trim added adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with high marks in individual tests.