2022 Toyota Venza vs 2021 Mazda CX-5

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 was a departure from the trend of sharply creased designs, opting instead for a sleek and smooth aesthetic that appeared dynamic 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 features varied slightly across trim levels, with the base GX offering LED headlights and 17-inch wheels, while higher trims like the GS and GT added leatherette seats, power-adjustable seats, and larger wheels. The top-tier Signature model elevated the luxury feel with Nappa leather and genuine wood trim, rivaling premium brands in terms of interior quality and design.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Venza re-emerged with a modern design that could easily fit within the Lexus lineup. Built on the TGNA-K platform, it featured a sculpted body with a distinctive rear fender and LED lighting that added a touch of elegance. The Venza's interior was equally impressive, offering a Lexus-like ambiance with high-quality materials and a well-thought-out layout. The cabin was spacious, with comfortable seating for five and a range of convenience features, including a panoramic glass sunroof on higher trims. The Venza's design was more about sophistication and comfort, making it a strong contender in the midsize crossover segment.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options, both paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The base engine was a 2.5-litre four-cylinder producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The GT and Signature trims featured a more powerful 250-hp turbocharged 2.5-litre engine with 320 lb-ft of torque, standard with AWD. The CX-5's fuel efficiency varied, with the FWD non-turbo 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 was known for its engaging driving dynamics, though its stiff suspension could be a drawback for some.

The 2022 Toyota Venza, on the other hand, featured a hybrid powertrain combining a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine with three electric motors, delivering a total of 219 horsepower. The hybrid system provided AWD and offered multiple drive modes, including an EV mode for short distances. The Venza's regenerative braking system helped recharge the battery, contributing to its impressive fuel efficiency. The Venza was not designed for aggressive driving but offered a smooth and comfortable ride, ideal for family use. Its hybrid system eliminated the need for charging infrastructure, making it a practical choice for those concerned about range anxiety.

The Mazda CX-5's interior was designed with functionality in mind, offering a comfortable seating position and straightforward climate controls. However, rear legroom was limited, and the cargo space was below average for the segment, with 875 litres behind the second row and 1,687 litres with the seats folded. The CX-5's interior was well-crafted, but the larger shifter and infotainment controls could be cumbersome for some drivers.

The Toyota Venza provided a spacious and well-appointed cabin with ample headroom and legroom in both rows. The second row offered 114.8 cm of hip room, making it comfortable for three adults. The Venza's cargo capacity was slightly less than the CX-5, with 816 litres behind the second row and 1,560 litres with the seats folded. However, the Venza excelled in cabin quietness, thanks to extensive sound insulation, creating a serene environment for passengers.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, but its operating system was not as user-friendly as some competitors. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, the lack of intuitive controls and the screen's positioning made it less convenient to use. The infotainment system's design was somewhat dated, detracting from the overall premium feel of the vehicle.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Venza offered a more advanced technology suite. The base LE model featured an eight-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, while higher trims added a 12.3-inch screen, a JBL audio system, and a head-up display. The Venza's hybrid system included a Predicted Efficient Drive program that optimized battery charging based on driving habits. The infotainment system was well-integrated, with multiple connectivity options and Toyota Connected Services, enhancing the overall user experience.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA, reflecting its strong safety credentials. Additional features like a head-up display and surround-view camera were available on higher trims.

The 2022 Toyota Venza also boasted an impressive array of safety features, with the Toyota Star Safety System and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 as standard. These included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. Higher trims added features like a surround-view camera and parking assist, further enhancing its safety profile.