2021 Toyota 4Runner vs 2020 Mazda CX-5

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 was a testament to Mazda's commitment to delivering a premium experience. It featured captivating style and compelling substance, with continual improvements that set it apart from competitors. 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. The CX-5's design, rooted in Mazda's "Kodo" styling, remained appealing and upscale, with the interior in Signature trim offering luxurious touches like Nappa leather and real wood.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner maintained its rugged, utilitarian charm, despite its last redesign being over a decade ago. Its design, with flared fenders and trapezoidal wheel arches, exuded timeless styling and utility. While not conventionally attractive, the 4Runner's two-box body and balanced proportions made it a reliable tool for off-road adventures. The interior, though dominated by hard plastics, was practical and easy to clean, with a dashboard featuring large knobs and buttons for manual controls. The 4Runner's enduring appeal lay in its simplicity and durability, qualities that endeared it to its owners.

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. However, its high centre of gravity led to excessive body motions during spirited driving, detracting from the otherwise engaging experience.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner, equipped with a 4.0-litre V6 engine, generated 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. Its five-speed automatic transmission powered the rear axle, with part-time 4WD available. The 4Runner excelled off-road, thanks to features like A-Trac, a locking rear differential, and Multi-Terrain Select. However, on pavement, it felt slow and clunky, with heavy steering and brakes. Its truck-like driving characteristics, while charming to some, were less suited for daily urban use. Fuel consumption was high, averaging 14.0 L/100 km during testing.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5's interior, while stylish and well-equipped, was more cramped than competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. It featured elegant gauges and metallic accents, with heated front seats standard. Higher trims added luxury touches like Nappa leather and genuine wood. Cargo space measured 875 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,687 litres with them folded. The CX-5's focus on upscale features aimed to offset its limited practicality.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner offered a spacious and comfortable interior, with ample legroom and supportive seats. Its high ground clearance posed a challenge for shorter passengers, but once inside, the 4Runner provided good visibility and air circulation. Cargo space was generous, with up to 1,337 litres behind the rear seats and 2,540 litres with them folded. The 4Runner's interior was practical, with decent storage and a large roof rack for additional gear.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system, offering an upscale impression but requiring acclimation. The system included a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims added features like a Bose premium sound system and a surround-view camera. However, the system's controls were not user-friendly, and voice recognition was unreliable.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner's entry-level Trail grade had limited technology, but the standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system was well-equipped. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system was user-friendly, with physical buttons and knobs for easy operation, even with gloves. Navigation included off-road trails, enhancing the 4Runner's adventure-ready appeal.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with a comprehensive ADAS package including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. It earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, reflecting its robust structural engineering and crash-test performance.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner featured Toyota Safety Sense P, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane departure warning. However, it lacked blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic warning. The 4Runner's safety ratings were mixed, with concerns about its age affecting crash protection. Its rollover resistance rating was three stars, but roof strength was rated "Good" by the IIHS.