2021 Subaru Crosstrek vs 2020 Mazda CX-5

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 was a testament to Mazda's commitment to delivering a premium experience beyond mere claims. This model year saw enhancements in standard equipment, cabin aesthetics, and noise reduction, all contributing to a more refined driving experience. 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 appeal, the interior's lack of contrast in the Caturra Brown leather detracted slightly from its premium feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek embraced the crossover trend by infusing the Impreza hatchback with rugged SUV characteristics. With standard AWD and a taller ride height, the Crosstrek offered a more SUV-like stance, complemented by vibrant colour options like Plasma Yellow Pearl. Built on the Subaru Global Platform, it shared a design with other Subaru models, ensuring a polished and refined driving experience. The interior, while functional, remained somewhat plain, with simulated carbon-fibre trim and water-repellant upholstery in the Outdoor grade. Despite these efforts, the Crosstrek's interior lacked the premium touch found in the CX-5.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 offered a standard 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard on lower trims, with AWD available. The GT Turbo and Signature trims featured a turbocharged engine, delivering 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 the turbo engine was less fuel-efficient, averaging 10.6 L/100 km. The G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced driving dynamics, but excessive body motions detracted from the overall thrill.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek introduced a new 2.5-litre boxer-four engine for the Outdoor and Limited trims, generating 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. Other trims retained the 2.0-litre engine with 152 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque. The boxer engine's lower profile improved handling, though the SUV-like ride height negated some benefits. A six-speed manual was available with the 2.0-litre engine, but most buyers opted for the CVT. Standard AWD and X-Mode enhanced off-road capabilities, though the Crosstrek's higher centre of gravity resulted in noticeable body roll. The new engine offered modest performance gains, with adequate acceleration and CVT-induced droning.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 aimed to compete with luxury SUVs, offering a stylish interior with standard heated front seats. GS trim added power-adjustable seats and a heated steering wheel, while GT and Signature trims introduced ventilated front seats and Nappa leather. Despite its upscale cabin, the CX-5's interior was more cramped than competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. Cargo space measured 875 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,687 litres with the seats folded. A power liftgate was available on higher trims, enhancing practicality.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek shared interior dimensions with the Impreza hatchback, offering competitive passenger space but limited cargo capacity. With 588 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats and 1,565 litres with them folded, the Crosstrek lagged behind some rivals. CVT-equipped models featured a rear-seat reminder, though its effectiveness was questionable. The interior included a cubby hole with USB and auxiliary ports, but rear-seat passengers lacked USB access. The driving position was higher than the Impreza's, providing good visibility, though not as commanding as traditional SUVs.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system, reminiscent of luxury brands like Audi and BMW. A 7-inch touchscreen was standard, with an 8-inch screen on higher trims. The system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose premium sound system on GT trims. However, the interface required acclimation, with controls on the centre console and steering wheel. Voice recognition was limited, and a new version of Mazda Connect was set to replace it in 2021.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek used the Starlink infotainment system, with a 6.5-inch touchscreen standard and an 8-inch screen on higher trims. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth were included, with navigation on the Limited trim. A secondary screen displayed redundant information, while large analog knobs and buttons controlled vital functions. EyeSight driver-assistance features were accessible via steering wheel buttons, enhancing usability.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. The CX-5's structural engineering and crash-test performance contributed to its high safety ratings.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS. EyeSight driver-assist technology, standard on CVT-equipped models, included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Additional features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims. EyeSight's cameras, while protected, had limitations in certain conditions, affecting functionality.