2021 Mazda CX-5 vs 2020 Toyota Highlander

The 2020 Toyota Highlander presented a somewhat understated exterior design, with subtle changes from its predecessor. The tailgate glass was slightly more slanted, and the body panels featured more pronounced creases, creating a trapezoidal theme that extended to various elements like the tailgate's license plate cutout and the grille. The vehicle came equipped with projector-beam LED headlights across all trims, while the higher trims, Limited and Platinum, boasted prettier LED running lamps and new 20-inch alloy wheels. The interior, however, was where the Highlander truly shone, with a focus on quality fit and finish. The cabin featured silver-painted accents, an 8-inch touchscreen, and a multi-layered dash. The Limited trim offered a three-tone interior with rich textures and padded surfaces, making it one of the nicest interiors in its class.

In contrast, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 took a different design approach, opting for a smooth and sleek exterior that exuded a sense of motion even when stationary. The base model came with features like automatic LED headlights and 17-inch alloy wheels, while higher trims added leatherette seats, a power liftgate, and auto-dimming mirrors. The CX-5 Signature trim, which was our test model, offered a premium feel with Caturra Brown Nappa leather seats and genuine wood trim. The interior materials were of high quality, and the fit and finish were well-executed, rivaling offerings from luxury brands. However, the CX-5's interior space was somewhat limited, particularly in terms of legroom for rear passengers.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. This engine delivered 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, providing brisk acceleration and a smooth, quiet ride. The eight-speed automatic transmission made full use of the engine's power, although it required a heavy foot for a kickdown. The Highlander's steering was somewhat loose, and the suspension was soft, leading to a floating sensation at higher speeds. Despite these drawbacks, the Highlander offered a comfortable and isolating driving experience, especially on long road trips. Fuel efficiency was commendable, with the FWD model rated at 11.9 L/100 km in the city and 8.3 on the highway.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, and a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine delivering 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. The turbo engine, available on higher trims, provided a more spirited performance, especially in Sport mode. The CX-5's driving dynamics were engaging, with firm steering and a sporty suspension, although the latter could be stiff on rough roads. Fuel efficiency for the non-turbo engine with FWD was 9.7 L/100 km in the city and 7.8 on the highway, while the turbo engine with AWD consumed 10.8 L/100 km in the city and 8.7 on the highway.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander offered seating for eight, or seven with the second-row captain's chairs on the Platinum trim. The second-row seats were highly versatile, with generous legroom and easy access to the third row. The Highlander's ergonomics were excellent, with wide-opening rear doors and a comfortable seating height. Cargo space was ample, with 453 litres behind the third row, 1,359 litres behind the second, and 2,378 litres with both rows folded. The interior featured practical storage solutions, including eight cupholders and two shelves integrated into the dash.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5, while stylish, had less interior space compared to the Highlander. The seating position and comfort level were typical for an SUV of its size, but rear legroom was limited. The CX-5 offered 875 litres of cargo space behind the second row and 1,687 litres with the rear seats folded, which was below average for the segment. The interior featured straightforward climate controls and a larger shifter, which took up passenger space. The infotainment system controls were positioned behind the shifter, making them less accessible for shorter drivers.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander's infotainment system was somewhat outdated, with low-resolution screens and a lack of onboard apps. The 12.3-inch touchscreen on the Platinum trim was not fully utilized, as climate and driving mode information occupied part of the screen. However, the Highlander offered a 10-inch head-up display and a 7-inch display in the instrument cluster, providing useful information. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, adaptive cruise control, and a JBL audio system on higher trims.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, but its operating system was not user-friendly. The lack of knobs for tuning the stereo or scrolling through favourites made it less convenient to use. However, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, allowing users to bypass some of the system's limitations. The CX-5's infotainment controls were positioned in the centre console, which could be a stretch for some drivers.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Highlander received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was named a 2020 Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning. Optional features included a head-up display and a surround-view camera system. The CX-5 was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS and received a five-star rating from the NHTSA. Mazda also provided a three-year/unlimited kilometre new vehicle warranty and a five-year/unlimited kilometre powertrain warranty.