2021 Mazda CX-5 vs 2021 Kia Seltos

The 2021 Kia Seltos, despite being a subcompact SUV, offered a surprisingly spacious feel. Its upright design provided a commanding view of the road, and while the headlight design was somewhat intricate, it seamlessly integrated with the grille. The lower front bumper had an aggressive approach angle, hinting at off-road capabilities, even though it wasn't designed for such adventures. The red accents around the wheel centres added a sporty touch, complementing its on-road dynamics. Inside, the Seltos featured a straightforward design with clean lines and integrated tech, reminiscent of more upscale brands. The interior boasted a clean LCD screen for climate controls and a well-thought-out layout that emphasized both utility and sportiness.

In contrast, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 took a different design approach, focusing on smooth, sleek lines that gave it a sophisticated appearance. The exterior design was consistent across most trim levels, with features like automatic LED headlights and rain-sensing wipers. The interior of the CX-5 was designed with comfort and style in mind, offering leatherette seats and a power liftgate in higher trims. The top-tier Signature model featured premium materials like Caturra Brown Nappa leather and genuine wood trim, elevating its status to rival luxury brands. The overall fit and finish were impressive, with high-quality materials that enhanced the driving experience.

The 2021 Kia Seltos offered two engine options. The LX, EX, and EX Premium trims were equipped with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 146 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT. This setup was adequate for city driving but lacked power at higher speeds. The SX Turbo trim featured a more powerful 1.6-litre turbocharged engine, delivering 175 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, coupled with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This engine provided ample power for highway driving and spirited acceleration, especially in Sport mode, which enhanced throttle response and steering feel. The Seltos handled well, with minimal body roll and a smooth ride, making it a standout in its class.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 also offered two engine choices. The base engine, a 2.5-litre four-cylinder, produced 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This engine was available in FWD and AWD configurations. The GT and Signature trims featured a turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, delivering 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. The turbo engine provided a more engaging driving experience, especially in Sport mode, where the CX-5's handling shone. However, the stiff suspension could be a drawback for those seeking a smoother ride. Fuel efficiency was decent, though not class-leading, and the lack of a hybrid option was notable.

The 2021 Kia Seltos excelled in cargo space, offering 752 litres behind the rear seats and expanding to 1,778 litres with the seats folded. This made it one of the most spacious subcompact SUVs available. The interior featured numerous storage compartments, and the rear seats provided ample head- and legroom, a rarity in its class.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5, while stylish, fell short in cargo capacity, offering 875 litres behind the second row and 1,687 litres with the seats folded. This was below average for the segment. The interior was comfortable, with good headroom but limited legroom for rear passengers. The CX-5's design included straightforward climate controls and a larger shifter, which took up more space than modern alternatives.

The 2021 Kia Seltos featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the base trims, while the EX Premium and SX Turbo offered a larger 10.25-inch screen. The system was intuitive, with hard buttons for easy navigation. However, only one USB port allowed data connection, which could be frustrating.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came standard with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, but its operating system was less user-friendly. The lack of tuning knobs and the screen's positioning made it challenging to use. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, providing a workaround for entertainment needs.

The 2021 Kia Seltos came with a comprehensive array of safety features, including airbags, electronic stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Higher trims offered advanced driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The Seltos received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 boasted a long list of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. Additional features like a head-up display and surround-view camera were available. The CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.