2020 Mazda CX-5 vs 2021 Mazda CX-5

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 was a testament to Mazda's commitment to premium quality, offering captivating style and substance. This model year saw enhancements such as more standard equipment, improved cabin instrumentation, and noise reduction modifications. The turbocharged engine received a torque boost, and AWD versions gained an off-road traction assistance feature. The CX-5's design, rooted in the "Kodo" styling theme, continued to impress with its appealing, distinctive, and upscale appearance. Inside, the Signature trim exuded luxury with Nappa leather upholstery and real wood accents, although the Caturra Brown leather lacked contrast against the predominantly black interior.

In contrast, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 took a smoother design approach, maintaining the brand's stylish direction. The base GX trim featured LED headlights, 17-inch wheels, and a rear roof spoiler, while the GS trim added leatherette seats, a power liftgate, and auto-dimming mirrors. The Kuro Edition introduced unique styling elements like Polymetal Gray paint and red leather seats. The GT trim offered leather upholstery and a Bose audio system, while the Signature trim rivaled premium brands with Caturra Brown Nappa leather and genuine wood trim. The top-tier model boasted excellent fit and finish, with materials that felt premium.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 offered a standard 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. FWD was standard on lower trims, with AWD optional. The GT Turbo and Signature trims featured a turbocharged engine delivering 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. The turbo engine provided robust acceleration, though it was less fuel-efficient, averaging 10.6 L/100 km during testing. The CX-5's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced driving engagement, but excessive body motions detracted from the overall experience.

In 2021, the CX-5 retained the same engine options, with the naturally aspirated 2.5-litre engine producing 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque. The turbocharged version offered 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on regular fuel. The non-turbo engine with FWD was the most fuel-efficient, achieving 8.8 L/100 km combined. The turbo engine delivered spirited performance, especially in Sport mode, but the stiff suspension and lack of seat bolstering affected comfort. The CX-5's sporty drive style was enjoyable, but the CX-30 offered a more agile experience.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5's interior aimed to compete with luxury SUVs, offering a stylish cabin with metallic accents and heated front seats. The GS trim added power-adjustable seats and a heated steering wheel, while the GT trim included ventilated front seats and heated rear seats. The Signature trim featured Nappa leather and genuine wood trim. However, the CX-5's interior was more cramped compared to competitors, with limited rear legroom. Cargo space measured 875 litres behind the rear seats and 1,687 litres with the seats folded.

In 2021, the CX-5 continued to offer a comfortable and stylish interior, with good headroom but limited rear legroom. The SUV featured two full LATCH connections for child seats and straightforward climate controls. The larger shifter and infotainment controls took up passenger space, and the cargo area offered 875 litres behind the second row and 1,687 litres with the seats folded. These figures were below average for the segment, with competitors offering more cargo space.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 featured a Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity. The GT trim added SiriusXM, a Bose sound system, and an 8-inch touchscreen. The Signature trim included a surround-view camera system. However, the system's controls were not user-friendly, and voice recognition was unreliable.

In 2021, the CX-5 upgraded to a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, but the operating system was not intuitive. The lack of tuning knobs and the screen's positioning made it difficult to use. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, providing a workaround for entertainment needs.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with standard ADAS features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. 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 rating from the NHTSA.

In 2021, the CX-5 continued to offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning. Additional options included a head-up display and a surround-view camera system. The SUV maintained its Top Safety Pick+ and five-star ratings.