2021 Mazda CX-5 vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 was a departure from the trend of sharply creased designs, opting instead for a smooth and sleek appearance that exuded a sense of motion even when stationary. While it didn't boast the aggressive styling of some competitors, it took Mazda's familiar design language in a more refined direction. The exterior differences among the CX-5's trim levels were subtle, with the base model featuring LED headlights, 17-inch wheels, and a rear roof spoiler. Higher trims added features like leatherette seats, power-adjustable seats, and auto-leveling LED headlights, enhancing both style and functionality. The top-tier Signature model elevated the CX-5 to a premium level with Nappa leather seats, genuine wood trim, and 19-inch gunmetal wheels, showcasing excellent fit and finish.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid presented a bold and distinctive design that required some acclimation. Its blunt and bulbous nose, along with black windshield pillars, created a floating roof effect, while swollen haunches balanced the overall styling. Despite its unique appearance, the Highlander's design could overwhelm with its cartoonishly flared quarter panels. The Platinum trim, which was evaluated, featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a surround-view camera, and a host of premium features. However, the interior's asymmetrical dashboard and reflective screen detracted from the overall experience. The Highlander's design aimed to remain distinctive, but its polarizing elements might have required time to become familiar.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options, both delivering commendable performance. The base model featured a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available. The GT trim allowed buyers to choose between the base engine and a more powerful 250-hp turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, delivering 320 lb-ft of torque. The turbo engine, standard on the Signature trim, provided spirited performance, especially in Sport mode. Fuel efficiency varied, with the non-turbo engine achieving 9.7 L/100 km in the city and 7.8 on the highway, while the turbo engine was slightly less efficient. The CX-5's engaging driving style and firm suspension contributed to a fun driving experience, though the ride could be stiff.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, following its redesign, featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with a total output of 243 hp. It utilized an "E-CVT" to mimic an automatic transmission. The hybrid system improved fuel efficiency, achieving 6.7 L/100 km in combined driving. While the Highlander Hybrid excelled in efficiency, it sacrificed driving enjoyment. The powertrain felt strained during hard acceleration or hill climbs, and the steering lacked responsiveness. The regenerative brakes, however, operated smoothly. The Highlander Hybrid's ride was soft, resulting in unwanted body movement, but it handled well on smooth roads. Around town, the electric motor torque and EV Mode showcased its strengths, but overall, the driving experience was less engaging compared to its predecessor.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5's design allowed it to fulfill family needs with comfort and style. The seating position and comfort level were typical for its size, though rear legroom was limited. The CX-5 featured two full LATCH connections for child seats, though they were not the easiest to use. Climate controls were straightforward, and the larger shifter took up space in the centre console. Cargo space was below average for the segment, with 875 litres behind the second row and 1,687 litres with the seats folded. A power liftgate was available.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum offered roomy and supportive accommodations for the driver and front passenger, with power-adjustable seats and heated and ventilated options. The second-row bench seat increased seating capacity to eight, though the Highlander felt narrow, and the overhead air vents could be irritating. The third-row seat was uncomfortable, with limited legroom and headroom. Storage was plentiful but not as generous as the previous generation. Cargo space measured 453 litres behind the third row, 1,370 litres with it folded, and 2,387 litres maximum. The Highlander lacked storage wells for securing items, and the wireless smartphone charger blocked access to the storage area.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came standard with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, though its operating system was not user-friendly. The lack of knobs for tuning the stereo or scrolling through favourites was a drawback, though volume control was accessible via the steering wheel or centre console. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, providing a workaround for entertainment needs.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured a comprehensive infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Platinum trim included a 12.3-inch touchscreen, JBL premium audio, and navigation. The system's controls were user-friendly, with large volume and tuning knobs and shortcut buttons. The voice recognition system worked well, though it did not control climate settings. The JBL sound system's performance varied, and the Driver Easy Speak technology projected the driver's voice to rear passengers. A video rearview mirror provided an unobstructed view, enhancing safety.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning. Additional options included a head-up display, reverse automatic emergency braking, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-5 earned high safety ratings, receiving a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and 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 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, featuring automatic high beams, dynamic radar cruise control, and lane departure with steering assist. New for 2021 were intersection support and emergency steering assistance. The Highlander's safety systems were effective, though the adaptive cruise control could feel uneven, and the lane-centring assistance was overly sensitive. The Highlander earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.