2021 Mazda CX-30 vs 2021 Mazda CX-5

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo was a striking vehicle, especially for those who appreciated a bold black aesthetic. It featured shiny black 18-inch wheels, a black grille, and black side mirror housings, all complemented by thick matte black body cladding. This design choice gave the CX-30 a unique, floating appearance, as if it was perpetually in motion. The elevated stance of the CX-30, compared to the Mazda3 hatchback on which it was based, was immediately noticeable, offering a higher ground clearance and a more commanding view of the road. Inside, the CX-30 shared its cabin design with the Mazda3, boasting quality materials and a sophisticated look with stitched chocolate brown surfaces, chrome accents, and a frameless rearview mirror.

In contrast, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 took a different design approach, focusing on smooth, sleek lines that gave it a refined and elegant appearance. The base model featured LED headlights, 17-inch wheels, and a rear roof spoiler, while higher trims added luxurious touches like leatherette seats, a power liftgate, and auto-dimming mirrors. The CX-5 Kuro Edition stood out with its Polymetal Gray paint, red leather seats, and black metallic wheels. The top-tier Signature model offered premium features such as Caturra Brown Nappa leather seats and genuine wood trim, rivaling luxury brands. The CX-5's design was well-executed, with high-quality materials and a focus on comfort and style.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo was equipped with a turbocharged Skyactiv 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing between 227 and 250 horsepower depending on the fuel octane. It delivered 310 to 320 lb-ft of torque, ensuring strong acceleration. The CX-30 Turbo featured a six-speed automatic transmission and standard i-Activ AWD, with front-wheel drive available on lower trims. Its fuel efficiency was rated at 9.3 L/100 km in combined driving, with a driving range of approximately 500 kilometres. The CX-30 Turbo offered a sophisticated driving experience, with effortless acceleration and advanced G-Vectoring Control Plus technology to manage torque steer. However, its added height and weight made it less agile than the Mazda3, though it excelled in off-road conditions with its extra ground clearance and Off-Road mode.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder with 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. The turbo engine was available on the GT and standard on the Signature trim, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and AWD. The CX-5's fuel efficiency varied, with the non-turbo AWD model rated at 9.3 L/100 km combined, while the turbo AWD model achieved 9.8 L/100 km. The CX-5 delivered a sporty driving experience, especially in Sport mode, but its stiff suspension could be less comfortable on rough roads. Despite this, the CX-5 was engaging to drive, though the CX-30 was noted for being sportier and more agile.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo offered a comfortable and driver-focused interior, with eight-way manual adjustment for the driver's seat and heated front seats. The cabin's design was minimalist yet spacious, with high-quality materials. However, the rear seats were cramped for adults, and the front passenger seat lacked adjustability. The CX-30 provided 572 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,280 litres with them folded, similar to the Mazda3 hatchback. Storage was generous, but the location of the wireless smartphone charger in the centre console limited its usability.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 provided a comfortable seating position and good headroom in both rows, though rear legroom was limited. It featured two full LATCH connections for child seats and straightforward climate controls. The centre console housed the infotainment controls, which could be challenging for shorter drivers to reach. The CX-5 offered 875 litres of cargo space behind the second row and 1,687 litres with the seats folded, which was below average for the segment. A power liftgate was available, enhancing convenience.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo featured an 8.8-inch infotainment display controlled via physical controls and voice commands. While not a touchscreen, it offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a 12-speaker Bose audio system and a head-up display on the GT trim. The system required acclimation, and the process of changing radio stations was cumbersome. The GT trim also included SiriusXM and a navigation system, enhancing the overall tech experience.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came standard with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, though its operating system was not as modern as some competitors. It lacked knobs for tuning the stereo, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, allowing for easier control via smartphone integration. The infotainment system's positioning made it a stretch for drivers to reach, but the steering wheel controls provided some convenience.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo earned top safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating. It came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features and ADAS, including an adaptive front lighting system and parking sensors on the GT trim.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It offered a wide range of standard safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. Additional features like a head-up display and a surround-view camera system were available, though the traffic sign recognition system was occasionally slow.