2021 Mazda CX-5 vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 was a departure from the deeply-creased and chiseled designs of many automakers, opting instead for a smooth and sleek appearance that exuded a sense of motion even when stationary. While it didn't aim to be a standout in terms of boldness, it took the familiar Mazda design language in a more refined direction. The exterior differences among the CX-5 trim levels were subtle, with the base GX model featuring practical elements like automatic LED headlights and rain-sensing wipers. As buyers moved up the trim ladder, they found enhancements such as leatherette seats, power-adjustable features, and advanced lighting systems that improved visibility on winding roads.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW X5 maintained the brand's signature design elements, from the iconic kidney grille to its unmistakable body shape. This consistency was both a strength and a weakness, as it ensured brand recognition but also risked blending in with other BMW models. The X5's exterior featured adaptive LED headlights and a choice of styling packages, including the sporty M Sport option with body-coloured trim and high-gloss black accents. The interior, while consistent with BMW's design ethos, was criticized for its overuse of black plastic, though it offered plenty of leather and soft-touch materials. The M Sport models added unique styling touches, enhancing the vehicle's sporty appeal.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options, both paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The base engine, a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder, produced 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, available in both FWD and AWD configurations. The GT and Signature trims featured a more powerful 250-hp turbocharged 2.5-litre engine with 320 lb-ft of torque, delivering a spirited driving experience, especially in Sport mode. Fuel efficiency varied, with the FWD non-turbo model achieving 9.7 L/100 km in the city and 7.8 on the highway, while the turbocharged AWD version consumed 10.8 L/100 km in the city and 8.7 on the highway. Despite its engaging drive, the CX-5's stiff suspension and limited seat bolstering were noted drawbacks.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrains, all mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base xDrive40i model featured a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine producing 335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque, with AWD as standard. The M50i variant boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, while the X5 M delivered up to 617 hp with the Competition Package. The new xDrive45e plug-in hybrid combined a 3.0-litre engine with a 24-kWh battery, achieving 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, and offering up to 50 km of all-electric range. Despite its power, the X5's steering dynamics were criticized, particularly at higher speeds, where it lacked the engaging handling expected from a BMW.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5's interior design was practical, with a comfortable seating position and straightforward climate controls. However, rear legroom was limited, especially with taller front-seat occupants. The CX-5 offered 875 litres of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 1,687 litres with the seats folded, which was below average for the segment. The power liftgate was a convenient feature, but the larger shifter and infotainment controls were not ideally positioned for shorter drivers.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, with well-placed cupholders and a wireless phone charging pad. The seating was comfortable for short trips, though the front seats could feel hard after extended periods. The optional third row was not tested, but the second row provided ample space for adults. The X5's split liftgate and adjustable vehicle height made loading cargo easy, though the doors did not open wide enough for easy access to the second row. The xDrive45e model offered slightly less cargo space due to its battery, but this was unlikely to be a significant issue for most buyers.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came standard with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, but its operating system was criticized for being outdated and difficult to use via the centre console knob. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, the screen's positioning made it challenging to reach. The lack of tuning knobs for the stereo was a notable inconvenience, though volume control was accessible via the steering wheel and console.

The 2021 BMW X5 featured a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the CarPlay system had connectivity issues, often taking over music operations unexpectedly. The standard features included a digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, and various connectivity options. Buyers could upgrade to a head-up display, premium audio systems, and additional climate control zones. The iDrive system required some acclimatization but was generally user-friendly once familiar.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 was equipped with 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 earned high safety ratings, being named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS and receiving a five-star rating from the NHTSA. Mazda offered a three-year/unlimited kilometre new vehicle warranty and a five-year/unlimited kilometre powertrain warranty.

The 2021 BMW X5 also came with a robust list of standard safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package had issues with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems, particularly in bright sunlight or light rain. The X5 received mostly Good ratings from the IIHS but had seven recalls. The NHTSA awarded it a four-star overall safety rating.