2021 Volvo XC40 vs 2020 Mazda CX-5

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 versions 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 slightly diminished its premium feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Volvo XC40 embraced traditional SUV styling with a tall, flat roof and upright rear hatch, fitting seamlessly into Volvo's lineup with signature design elements like "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights. The XC40 Recharge distinguished itself with subtle design tweaks, such as a blanked-off grille and model-specific alloy wheels. Built on Volvo's Compact Modular Architecture, the XC40 accommodated both gasoline and electric powertrains. Its minimalist interior boasted high-quality materials, including Nappa leather and Nubuck textile, creating a coherent and premium design. Despite its compact size, the XC40 offered clever storage solutions, enhancing its practicality.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 featured a standard 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The turbocharged version in the 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 the turbo engine was less fuel-efficient, averaging 10.6 L/100 km. The CX-5's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced driving engagement, but excessive body motions in corners detracted from the overall thrill.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered a three-tiered powertrain lineup, with the electric Recharge model at the top. The base T4 gasoline engine produced 187 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque, while the T5 delivered 248 hp and 258 lb-ft. The Recharge boasted 402 hp and 486 lb-ft from its dual electric motors, achieving 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds. All versions were electronically limited to 180 km/h. The XC40 emphasized comfort over speed, with excellent ride quality even on rough roads. The Recharge's one-pedal driving and 900-kilogram towing capacity added to its versatility.

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. Mazda focused on upscale cabin features, such as heated front seats and a power liftgate in higher trims, to offset its limited space. The CX-5 Signature's front seats were comfortable, but rear legroom was tight. Cargo space measured 875 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,687 litres with the seats folded.

The 2021 Volvo XC40, including the Recharge model, offered less legroom and headroom than rivals like the Tesla Model Y. However, it compensated with clever storage solutions, such as a removable trash bin and large door bins. The XC40's interior was competitive against the Audi Q3 and BMW X1, with thoughtful design elements like a properly shaped storage cubby for phones. Despite its compact size, the XC40's practical features enhanced its usability.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system, which mirrored the tech setups of luxury brands like Audi and BMW. The system included a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, HD Radio, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Higher trims added features like SiriusXM satellite radio, a Bose premium sound system, and a surround-view camera. However, the system's interface required acclimation, and voice-recognition technology was limited.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge introduced the Android Automotive OS, featuring Google apps like Google Assistant and Google Maps. The system included a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The Recharge also offered OTA update capability, allowing for software updates without dealership visits. The lack of a start button and the potential for a Digital Key feature added to the XC40's modern tech appeal.

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 smart city brake support, 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 reinforced its safety credentials.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA for gasoline models. Standard safety features included lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The Recharge model featured Volvo's latest sensor suite, allowing for future driver aid enhancements. Volvo's commitment to safety was evident in the XC40's comprehensive safety package.