2021 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was crafted as a distinct electric vehicle, diverging from the traditional styling of Volkswagen's gasoline models. It showcased a streamlined profile with wheels positioned at the corners, moving away from the rugged appearance of models like the Tiguan and Atlas. The ID.4 was part of Volkswagen's EV-specific MEB platform, following the ID.3 hatchback. While it shared some design elements with the ID.3, such as plastic body cladding and a slightly elevated ride height, it didn't quite resemble an SUV. The interior combined Volkswagen's minimalist design with a tech-focused aesthetic, featuring piano black and matte plastic elements. The base ID.4 Pro came with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cloth seats, with leatherette upholstery available in the Statement Package.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, introduced subtle exterior updates, including new LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, and a redesigned grille. The Signature trim featured body-colour lower exterior trim, enhancing Mazda's premium brand aspirations. Inside, the CX-5 retained its luxurious feel with Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. The new seats provided improved comfort and support, addressing previous complaints. The CX-5 offered a range of trims, from the budget-friendly GX to the performance-oriented Sport Design and Signature trims, each with varying levels of luxury and performance features.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two powertrain configurations. The base rear-wheel drive (RWD) version featured a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, powered by an 82-kilowatt-hour battery pack. An all-wheel-drive (AWD) version added a second motor for a total output of 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. The ID.4 prioritized comfort over sportiness, with a smooth ride and balanced handling. However, it lacked the aggressive regenerative braking found in many EVs, opting for a more traditional driving experience.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 came with a standard Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. All models featured standard AWD, and the revised six-speed automatic transmission improved responsiveness. For those seeking more power, the turbocharged engine offered up to 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium gas. The CX-5's driving dynamics were enhanced with increased structural rigidity and reworked suspension tuning, providing a quieter and smoother ride. The new Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) offered Normal, Sport, and Off-Road settings, further improving the driving experience.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 provided ample front and rear headroom compared to other EVs, though legroom was average. It offered 858 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded, surpassing several EV competitors but falling short of gasoline models like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The ID.4 lacked a "frunk," but its interior felt spacious, with good forward visibility. However, rearward visibility was compromised by thick rear pillars. The ID.4 featured a unique twist-grip gear selector and standard heated steering wheel and front seats for efficient cabin heating.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints with new, more comfortable seats and a sportier driving position. The interior featured leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and heated and ventilated front seats. The back seat remained snug, but heated outboard cushions and air conditioning vents improved passenger comfort. The control layout, however, was frustrating due to the non-touchscreen Mazda Connect infotainment system. 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.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 came with a standard 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with an optional 12-inch screen, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 5.3-inch display screen served as the instrument cluster, and haptic touchpads replaced traditional switchgear. While visually appealing, the touchpads were challenging to use without tactile feedback. The ID.4 also featured a natural-language voice-control system and the innovative ID.Light, a light strip at the base of the windshield that communicated information to the driver.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display and Bluetooth. However, the display was not touch-sensitive, and the system lacked natural voice recognition. Users had to rely on centre console and steering wheel controls. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mazda Connected Services. Higher trims offered a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system and SiriusXM satellite radio.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA for RWD versions. It offered a range of driver aids, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. New features like Travel Assist and Emergency Assist enhanced safety, with Travel Assist providing automated lane centring.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 boasted a comprehensive i-Activsense package, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera system, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, matching few rivals in safety performance.