2020 Mazda CX-5 vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 was a testament to Mazda's commitment to premium quality, showcasing captivating style and continual product improvement. This model year saw enhancements such as more standard equipment, refined cabin instrumentation, and noise reduction modifications. The turbocharged engine received a torque boost, and AWD models gained an off-road traction assistance feature. With prices ranging from $27,950 to $41,900, the CX-5 offered various trims, including the luxurious Signature trim, which featured premium Nappa leather and real wood accents. Despite its upscale appearance, the interior's lack of contrast in the Caturra Brown leather detracted slightly from its premium feel.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW X5 maintained BMW's reputation for high-quality craftsmanship, with a design that was unmistakably BMW. The X5's exterior featured full adaptive LED headlights and a choice of xLine or M Sport styling, each offering distinct finishes and sporty elements. The interior, while sharing many components with other BMW models, was not lacking in quality, with leather and soft-touch materials throughout. M Sport models added unique styling touches, including an M sports steering wheel and exclusive interior trim. Despite its premium feel, the X5's interior design was criticized for its sameness across the BMW lineup.

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 turbocharged version, available in GT Turbo and Signature trims, delivered up to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel. Despite its 1,734-kilogram curb weight, the CX-5 Signature accelerated confidently, though its fuel efficiency was lower than the naturally aspirated engine. The SUV's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced driving engagement, but excessive body motions and a high centre of gravity detracted from its overall thrill.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrains, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base xDrive40i model featured a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine with 335 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque. The X5 M50i boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, while the X5 M reached 600 hp, or 617 hp with the Competition Package. The new xDrive45e plug-in hybrid achieved 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, with up to 50 kilometres of all-electric range. Despite its power, the X5's steering and dynamics were criticized for lacking the engaging handling expected from BMW, with issues in lane stability and steering responsiveness.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5's interior, while stylish and well-equipped, was more cramped compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The CX-5 Signature trim added luxury with Nappa leather and genuine wood trim, but rear legroom was limited. Cargo space measured 875 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,687 litres with the seats folded. The GS trim and higher offered a power liftgate with programmable height.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, with comfortable seating for short trips, though front seats became hard over longer drives. The rear seats accommodated two adults comfortably, and an optional third row was available. The X5's split liftgate and air suspension made loading cargo easier, though the xDrive45e offered slightly less cargo space. The SUV's climate controls were user-friendly, but the centre console controls were less intuitive.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system, which, while upscale, required acclimation. The system included a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, HD Radio, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Higher trims added features like SiriusXM, a Bose sound system, and a surround-view camera. However, the system's controls were not ideal, and voice recognition was unreliable.

The 2021 BMW X5 came with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system included a digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, and various connectivity options. Optional upgrades included a head-up display, premium audio systems, and a Wi-Fi hot spot. The iDrive system required some getting used to but was generally user-friendly once familiar.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with standard ADAS features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping 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.

The 2021 BMW X5 included standard safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package had issues with lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control, particularly in bright sunlight or rain. The X5 received Good ratings from the IIHS and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, despite being subject to seven recalls.