2022 Ford Explorer vs 2023 Mazda CX-50

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 popular XLT version. The Explorer's design, based on a rear-drive platform, featured a long hood, short front overhang, and a tapering greenhouse, giving it a taut, athletic appearance. Blacked-out roof pillars contributed to a "floating roof" effect. Inside, higher-trim Explorers displayed a mix of quality and questionable materials, mostly justifying their price but occasionally revealing the base trim's influence.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 showcased a design with a blunt nose, long hood, and rakish windshield, embodying Mazda's signature subtle seductiveness. It introduced rugged elements like blistered fender swells and bold lower body cladding. The CX-50's design was complemented by a standard black grille, mirror caps, and available 20-inch alloy wheels. The new Meridian Edition added exclusive wheels, all-terrain tires, and a roof platform. Inside, the CX-50 featured a driver-focused design with quality materials and polished metallic trim. The interior was dressed in black leather with caramel stitching, offering a mix of comfort and style, though some elements like the off-centre air vent seemed like afterthoughts.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The XLT, ST-Line, and Timberline trims came with a 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, producing 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic and standard 4WD in Canada. It had a towing capacity of 2,400 kg and consumed between 10.3 and 11.8 L/100 km. The Limited trim offered a hybrid drivetrain with a 3.3-litre V6, generating 318 hp and 322 lb-ft, towing up to 2,268 kg, and achieving 9.6 L/100 km. The ST and Platinum trims featured a twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6, delivering 400 hp and 415 lb-ft, with a towing capacity of 2,540 kg and fuel consumption of 11.8 L/100 km. The Explorer provided a robust ride, excelling in off-road conditions with its Trail setting and ground clearance of up to 22.1 cm in the Timberline model.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 offered two engine options. The base GT model had a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 hp and 186 lb-ft, paired with a six-speed automatic and AWD, achieving 8.9 L/100 km combined. The GT Turbo trim featured a turbocharged version, producing 227 to 256 hp and 310 to 320 lb-ft, depending on fuel type, with a towing capacity of 1,587 kg. It averaged 10.1 L/100 km. The CX-50 provided smooth acceleration and a firm ride, with Mi-Drive modes ensuring consistent vehicle behaviour. It felt more like a sporty wagon than an SUV, with a ground clearance of up to 21.8 cm, capable of moderate off-roading but lacking a downhill assist system.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered comfort for families of four, with an optional second-row bench seat for occasional five-passenger capacity. The third-row seat was suitable only for children due to the rear-drive platform and low roofline. Higher trims featured amenities like triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated seats, and massaging front seats. However, the third-row access was challenging for adults. Storage space was limited, with missed opportunities for additional compartments. The cargo area provided 528 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,264 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,132 litres with all rear seats down.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 offered heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone climate control. The front seats were comfortable for long drives, though more side bolstering was needed. The rear seat was spacious, with nearly 90-degree opening doors for easy access. Storage was adequate, with some missed opportunities for additional bins. The cargo area offered 889 litres, expanding to 1,595 litres with the rear seats folded. The load floor was long but narrow between the wheel wells, with side bins and hooks for securing items.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with either 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 navigation and music requests. The Platinum trim added a 12.3-inch digital display and Active Park Assist 2.0. The system needed an upgrade to Sync 4 for improved functionality.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 came with Mazda Connect, featuring a 10.25-inch display, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Historically, Mazda Connect lacked touchscreen control, relying on console buttons and voice recognition. However, the CX-50 introduced touchscreen functionality for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available 12-speaker Bose sound system provided a satisfying audio experience. The Active Driving Display offered useful data, including blind-spot warnings.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with standard Ford Co-Pilot360 features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, 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-50 received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with standard driving assistance systems, including active blind-spot monitoring. Exclusive features included Traffic Jam Assist and a surround-view camera. The systems generally worked well, though the adaptive cruise control occasionally failed to recognize vehicles cutting in.