2022 Mazda CX-5 vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 presented a rugged exterior reminiscent of a traditional SUV, with boxy fender flares, chiseled taillights, and a scowling front end that set it apart from previous generations and other compact crossovers. Despite its aggressive styling, the RAV4 was built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, shared with other Toyota models like the Camry, which meant its mechanical underpinnings were more conventional. The RAV4 offered options like the Trail model with a retro Ice Edge roof and the TRD Off-Road package with matte black wheels and red interior accents, enhancing its adventurous appeal. Inside, the RAV4 featured rugged styling touches, such as large rubberized knobs and SofTex upholstery, though material quality did not significantly improve with higher trims.

In contrast, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 maintained a sophisticated appearance with new LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, and a redesigned grille. The Signature trim featured body-colour lower exterior trim, emphasizing Mazda's premium aspirations. The interior remained unchanged, with the Signature trim offering luxurious Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. The 2022 model introduced new seats, enhancing comfort and driving position. The CX-5's back seat remained snug, but features like heated outboard cushions and air conditioning vents improved passenger comfort. The control layout, however, was a source of frustration due to the non-touchscreen Mazda Connect infotainment system, which required acclimation to console controls.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered standard front-wheel drive with optional all-wheel drive. Despite its impressive engine efficiency, the RAV4's transmission was sluggish, and the steering lacked feel, resulting in a less dynamic driving experience. The RAV4 excelled on highways with low cabin noise and a comfortable suspension but focused more on off-road capability with features like torque-vectoring all-wheel drive and a 3,500-pound towing capacity in Trail and TRD Off-Road models.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 featured a Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, coupled with a revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. For more power, a turbocharged engine option delivered up to 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium gas. The CX-5's driving dynamics improved with increased structural rigidity and reworked suspension, offering a quieter, smoother, and sportier ride. The Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) system provided Normal, Sport, and Off-Road settings, enhancing the driving experience. The CX-5's handling was praised for its grip and reduced body motions, aligning with Mazda's premium brand aspirations.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 offered a tall, upright roof providing ample headroom and good outward visibility. However, legroom was slightly behind competitors, and the rear seats were less comfortable for long trips. Cargo space was above average, with 1,059 litres behind the rear seats and 1,977 litres with them folded, though still trailing the Honda CR-V. The RAV4's interior featured oversized knobs and easy-to-use controls, but storage space was limited, lacking large cupholders or a place for loose change.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints with new, supportive seats and a sportier driving position. The back seat remained snug, but features like heated outboard cushions and air conditioning vents improved comfort. The control layout was challenging due to the non-touchscreen Mazda Connect system, but once accustomed, it was manageable. Storage space was limited, with a small centre armrest bin, but wireless smartphone charging and door storage were available. Cargo space was adequate, with 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with them folded, comparing favourably to entry-level luxury SUVs but less so against mainstream crossovers.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with most trims featuring a 7-inch touchscreen, while Trail and Limited models had an 8-inch screen. The RAV4 Prime offered a 9-inch screen. Up to five USB ports were available, and a JBL premium audio system was optional. The infotainment system was user-friendly but not flashy, lacking features like a head-up display available on the RAV4 Prime.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained the Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display and Bluetooth, but it was not touch-sensitive. The system required console controls, which took time to get used to. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with text-messaging support and Mazda Connected Services. A 10-speaker Bose premium sound system was optional on GT and standard from Sport Design, offering decent audio quality. SiriusXM satellite radio was also available.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention tech. However, it missed the "Top Safety Pick+" rating due to mixed headlight scores. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall rating. Standard safety features included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and more. A 360-degree camera system was available in certain packages.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 boasted a comprehensive i-Activsense package, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and more. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, a distinction few rivals matched. The driving tech was mostly agreeable, with a head-up display for blind-spot warnings.