2022 Mazda CX-5 vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2021 Acura RDX, particularly in the A-Spec trim, was a visually appealing SUV. Its design changes were subtle yet effective, conveying a sense of sportiness without overpromising on performance. Acura avoided the rugged off-road look, focusing instead on a sleek, road-friendly appearance. The RDX A-Spec sat in the middle of the trim hierarchy, with a starting price of $44,505, and offered a range of features that enhanced its sporty aesthetic, such as front sport seats with simulated suede inserts and a sport steering wheel. However, the gauge cluster's red markings on a brushed silver background were difficult to read, except at night.

In contrast, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 featured new LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, and a redesigned grille, giving it a refreshed look. The top-of-the-line Signature trim received body-colour lower exterior trim, emphasizing Mazda's premium aspirations. Inside, the CX-5 retained its luxurious feel with Nappa leather upholstery and real wood trim. The seats were new for 2022, offering improved comfort. The CX-5's pricing ranged from $30,500 to $43,650, with the turbocharged engine available for those seeking more power. The test vehicle, equipped with the turbo engine and additional features, totalled $46,175.

The 2021 Acura RDX was powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine, producing 272 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 280 pound-feet of torque from 1,600 to 4,500 rpm. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and the torque-vectoring SH-AWD system, which could deliver up to 70% of engine output to the rear wheels. The RDX offered various driving modes, including Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, which adjusted powertrain response, steering effort, and suspension firmness. The A-Spec trim had exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels and performance tires, enhancing its handling. However, the lack of adaptive dampers and rev-matching in Sport modes were noted drawbacks.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered a base Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. All models came with standard AWD, and the revised 6-speed automatic transmission improved responsiveness. The turbocharged engine option provided 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium gas. The CX-5's new Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) offered Normal, Sport, and Off-Road settings. The 2022 model featured increased structural rigidity and reworked suspension tuning, resulting in a quieter, smoother ride with improved driving dynamics. The CX-5's handling was praised for its grip and composure, making it a legitimate alternative to entry-level luxury SUVs.

The 2021 Acura RDX, though classified as a compact SUV, offered impressive passenger and cargo space. The front seats were comfortable, with 12-way power adjustment and heating as standard. However, rear-seat comfort was compromised due to a low and flat cushion, resulting in a lack of leg support. The RDX provided 835 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats and 1,668 litres with the seats folded. Acura also quoted a maximum cargo volume of 2,260 litres, though this measurement was based on an unconventional loading method.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints about its ride and front seats. The new seats offered better support and a sportier driving position. Most trims included a height-adjustable front passenger seat, dual-zone climate control, and heated and ventilated front seats. The back seat remained snug, but heated outboard cushions and air vents improved passenger comfort. The CX-5's control layout was a source of frustration, but storage space was adequate. Cargo space was 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with them folded, comparing favourably to entry-level luxury SUVs.

The 2021 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which used a touch-sensing pad on the centre console instead of a touchscreen. While an improvement over Lexus's approach, TTI required a learning curve and could be distracting. The A-Spec trim included a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D premium audio system, which delivered excellent sound quality. Acura offered smartphone projection, physical controls for stereo and climate, and integrated voice-recognition technology, though the TTI system was not ideal.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display and Bluetooth. The display was not touch-sensitive, and the system lacked natural voice recognition. Users had to rely on centre console and steering wheel controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Mazda Connected Services. The CX-5 offered a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system on higher trims, which provided satisfactory audio quality. Mazda's approach required acclimation, and the lack of a touchscreen was a notable drawback.

The 2021 Acura RDX came with a suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. However, blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were only available on higher trims. The RDX earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received four-star ratings for frontal-impact and rollover resistance.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered a comprehensive i-Activsense package, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera system, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5's i-Activsense system was mostly agreeable, though it could be abrupt in moderate traffic. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, a distinction few rivals could match.