2023 Mazda CX-5 vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered Canadians a range of six models, with prices starting from $47,799 to $66,759, excluding a $2,095 destination charge. The lineup expanded with the rugged Timberline trim and introduced the sporty ST-Line, enhancing the XLT version's appeal. The Explorer's design, based on a rear-drive platform, featured a long hood, short front overhang, and a tapering greenhouse, creating a taut, athletic look. Blacked-out roof pillars contributed to a "floating roof" effect. Inside, higher-trim Explorers mixed quality with some less impressive materials, but overall, the cabin felt worthy of its price.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, remained a strong contender in the compact crossover SUV segment. It was stylish, with high-quality materials that gave it a luxury feel. The available turbocharged engine provided impressive power, and the CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. Mazda planned to transition the CX-5 to the CX-50, similar to Infiniti's rebranding strategy. The CX-5 exuded quality and sophistication across all trims, with the 2.5 Turbo Signature model offering premium features like Nappa leather and a high price tag of $46,755, including destination charges. Despite its cramped back seat and cargo area, the CX-5 was a refined choice.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The XLT, ST-Line, and Timberline trims featured a 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD in Canada. It had a towing capacity of 2,400 kg and fuel consumption between 10.3 and 11.8 L/100 km. The Explorer Limited offered a hybrid drivetrain with a 3.3-litre V6 engine, producing 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 2,268 kg, and consuming 9.6 L/100 km. The ST and Platinum trims had a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine with 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 2,540 kg and consuming 11.8 L/100 km. The Explorer provided a robust ride, excelling in off-road conditions with its Trail setting and ground clearance.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered a standard 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and AWD, consuming 9.0 L/100 km. The 2.5 Turbo model featured a turbocharged engine with 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular fuel, consuming 9.8 L/100 km. The CX-5's updates improved structural rigidity, suspension dampening, and transmission responsiveness, enhancing its driving dynamics. The turbo engine delivered torque at 2,000 rpm with regular gas and 2,500 rpm with premium, providing quick acceleration. The CX-5 excelled on twisting roads, offering a firm, connected ride with responsive steering and brakes.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided comfort for families of four, with an optional second-row bench seat for five passengers. The third-row seat was suitable for children due to its low roofline and limited legroom. Higher trims offered features like triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain’s chairs. The Explorer's cabin lacked practical storage, with limited centre console space and few pockets or cubbies. Cargo space was 528 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,264 litres with the third row folded, and 2,132 litres with both rear rows down.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 improved front seat comfort and support, with height-adjustable seats for the driver and front passenger. Higher trims offered power-adjustable seats, heated and ventilated seats, and dual-zone climate control. The Signature trim featured Nappa leather upholstery. However, the CX-5's technology, storage, and rear-seat space were lacking. The infotainment system lacked voice recognition, and the cargo area offered 871 litres behind the rear seat and 1,680 litres with the back seat folded, less than some rivals.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The system included FordPass Connect, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. However, the voice recognition system was outdated, struggling with basic commands. The Platinum trim added a 12.3-inch digital display and Active Park Assist 2.0.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system had a 10.25-inch display but was frustrating to use. It lacked effective voice recognition, and the physical controls were awkward. The system required attention away from the road, making it distracting. Despite this, it offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose audio system. The test vehicle included a front-facing camera and a surround-view camera system.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. It featured Ford Co-Pilot360, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety systems operated smoothly, though the steering wheel sensitivity was occasionally frustrating.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS. The i-Activsense suite included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The 2.5 Turbo Signature added a surround-view camera and Traffic Jam Assist. However, the CX-5 lacked a warning for driving without headlights at night, a potential safety issue.