2022 Kia Sportage vs 2021 Mazda CX-5

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 was a departure from the trend of aggressive styling, opting instead for a sleek and smooth design that exuded elegance even at a standstill. While it didn't boast the flashiness of some competitors, it took Mazda's signature design in a 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 like the GS and GT added features such as leatherette seats, a power liftgate, and larger wheels, culminating in the Signature model, which offered premium touches like Nappa leather and genuine wood trim.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia Sportage's design was a mix of bold and quirky elements. The front grille, reminiscent of a Halloween costume mustache, was a point of contention, but the rest of the design was well-executed. The Sportage featured a distinctive four-dot running light signature and a symmetrical rear design, giving it a stylish and planted stance. Inside, the Sportage embraced a Germanic design with a black dashboard and metallic accents. The controls were user-friendly, with buttons and knobs for easy adjustments, and the overall feel was upscale, with a solid transmission shifter enhancing the sense of quality.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options, both delivering commendable performance. The base 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine produced 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 and Signature trims featured a more powerful 250-hp turbocharged engine with 320 lb-ft of torque, providing a spirited driving experience. Fuel efficiency varied, with the most economical FWD model achieving 9.7 L/100 km in the city and 7.8 on the highway. The turbocharged AWD version was slightly less efficient but still competitive. The CX-5's driving dynamics were engaging, though the stiff suspension could be a drawback for some.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered a 2.4-litre engine with 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, while the SX trim boasted a more robust 237-hp engine with 260 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, with the SX featuring Kia's Dynamax AWD system. The Sportage SX delivered quick acceleration, with maximum torque available from 1,450 to 3,500 rpm. The ride was smooth and compliant, with a sophisticated driving character. The Sportage's suspension provided a comfortable experience, though the steering and tires could be sharper for more spirited driving.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered a comfortable and stylish interior, though rear legroom was limited for taller passengers. The SUV featured two full LATCH connections for child seats and straightforward climate controls. However, the larger shifter and infotainment controls were not ideally positioned for shorter drivers. Cargo space was below average, with 875 litres behind the second row and 1,687 litres with the seats folded.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, despite its smaller size, provided a roomy passenger compartment. The SX trim offered luxurious features like perforated leather seats, power adjustments, and heated and ventilated front seats. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom and amenities like air vents and USB ports. Cargo space was decent, with 868 litres behind the rear seats and 1,703 litres with them folded. The Sportage's smart liftgate technology added convenience, though it could be turned off if not needed.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, but its operating system was not user-friendly. The lack of knobs for tuning and volume adjustments was a drawback, though Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard. The infotainment system's positioning made it difficult to reach for some drivers.

The 2022 Kia Sportage featured an 8-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The SX trim added UVO Intelligence services, satellite radio, and a Harman Kardon audio system. The infotainment system was easy to use, with knobs for volume and tuning, though the UVO system was less advanced compared to competitors. The lack of a WiFi hotspot and wireless smartphone mirroring were notable omissions.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Optional features included a head-up display and a surround-view camera. The CX-5 earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with a five-star rating and a Top Safety Pick+ designation.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance on the EX and SX trims. The SX also included adaptive cruise control. The Sportage received favourable crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, though only the SX trim earned an Acceptable headlight rating for a Top Safety Pick award.