2022 Mazda CX-5 vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid initially presented a bold and distinctive design that, over time, became more familiar and less striking. Its blunt and bulbous nose, combined with black windshield pillars, gave it an aggressive front-heavy appearance. Despite its swollen haunches and 20-inch alloy wheels, the Highlander's design was somewhat overwhelmed by its cartoonishly-flared quarter panels. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid Platinum offered a two-tone interior with soft leather, but the dashboard's asymmetrical design and glossy black detailing could suffer from reflections. The mix of illumination colours in the gauges added to a busy appearance, detracting from the overall upscale feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 maintained a sleek and refined exterior with new LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, and a redesigned grille. The Signature trim featured body-colour lower exterior trim, enhancing its premium appeal. Inside, the CX-5's Signature trim exuded luxury with Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. The new seats provided improved comfort and support, while the driving position offered a sportier feel. Despite the snug back seat, heated outboard cushions and air conditioning vents added to passenger comfort. The control layout, however, remained a point of frustration due to the lack of a touchscreen display and natural voice recognition.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 engine to a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, reducing its total output to 243 horsepower. This change improved fuel efficiency, with a combined rating of 6.7 L/100 km, although the driving experience suffered. The hybrid's E-CVT transmission and regenerative brakes operated smoothly, but the engine sounded strained during acceleration, and the steering felt lifeless. The Highlander Hybrid's ride was soft, leading to unwanted body movement, especially on uneven roads. Despite its fuel efficiency, the SUV lacked driving enjoyment, making it less appealing for those seeking a dynamic experience.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered a Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque as standard. The revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive contributed to a responsive performance. For those seeking more power, the turbocharged engine delivered up to 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium gas. The CX-5's fuel consumption was rated at 9.3 L/100 km for the base engine and 9.8 L/100 km for the turbo. The new Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) and improved suspension tuning enhanced the driving dynamics, providing a quieter, smoother, and sportier ride. The CX-5's handling was precise, with reduced body roll and improved grip, making it a joy to drive on winding roads.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum offered spacious and supportive front seats with 10-way power adjustment for the driver. The second-row bench seat increased seating capacity to eight but felt narrow for three adults. The third-row seat was uncomfortable, with limited legroom and headroom. Storage space was adequate, with a roll-top centre armrest and a shallow storage tray under the cargo floor. Cargo capacity ranged from 453 litres behind the third row to 2,387 litres with all seats folded. However, the lack of storage wells for securing items was a drawback.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints with new, supportive seats and a sportier driving position. The front passenger seat was height-adjustable, a rarity among its rivals. The test vehicle featured leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and heated and ventilated front seats. The back seat remained snug but offered heated outboard cushions and air conditioning vents for added comfort. Storage space was limited, with a small centre armrest bin and wireless smartphone charging. Cargo capacity was 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with the seats folded, comparing favourably to entry-level luxury SUVs.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Platinum trim added an 11-speaker JBL premium audio system, navigation, and connected services. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large knobs and shortcut buttons. However, the JBL sound system's audio quality was inconsistent. Driver Easy Speak technology and a video rearview mirror enhanced convenience, while the driver information display provided detailed data.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display and Bluetooth. The lack of a touchscreen and natural voice recognition made the system less intuitive. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Mazda Connected Services. The optional 10-speaker Bose premium sound system offered decent audio quality. Despite the control layout's initial complexity, users could acclimate to the centre console controls over time.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ with adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. The system included intersection support and emergency steering assistance. A blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, while the Platinum trim added a surround-view camera system. The Highlander received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered a comprehensive i-Activsense package with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera system, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5's safety features operated smoothly, with alerts available in tactile and audible forms. The IIHS awarded the CX-5 a "Top Safety Pick+" rating, highlighting its strong safety credentials.