2023 Mazda CX-30 vs 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was a fresh take on electrified mobility, distinct from its predecessor, the original Ioniq. It was the first model under the new Ioniq sub-brand, which focused solely on electric vehicles. The Ioniq 5's exterior design was a blend of minimalistic character lines and intricate Parametric Pixel elements, reminiscent of retro gaming aesthetics. This design approach made the Ioniq 5 appear more like a concept car than a production vehicle, with its extensive use of pixelated lighting across all LED components. The interior, however, contrasted with a more subdued "Living Space" theme, offering a relaxing environment with sustainable materials and innovative features like the "Relaxation" mode for the driver's seat.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered a more traditional yet artful design. Its long hood and sculpted flanks gave it a nose-heavy appearance, accentuated by excessive grey body cladding. Despite this, the CX-30's cabin was upscale and elegant, featuring quality materials and a tasteful combination of colours in the GT Turbo trim. The interior was designed to resemble an entry-level luxury SUV, with features like gloss black trim and polished metal accents. However, the front passenger seat lacked adjustability, and rear legroom was tight, which detracted from the overall comfort.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was available in Canada with two trims and three powertrains, offering both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. The base model featured a 125-kW rear-mounted electric motor producing 168 horsepower and a range of 354 kilometres. The Preferred long-range variant boasted a 168-kW motor with 225 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, offering a range of 488 kilometres. The AWD version combined a dual-motor system for a total of 320 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque, with a range of 414 km. The Ioniq 5's performance was middle-of-the-road for a midsize crossover, with a focus on comfort and control rather than sporty dynamics. It featured four drive modes, including Sport, which added excitement but reduced range. The vehicle's quiet cabin was enhanced by noise-reducing features and acoustic tires.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered three powertrains across its trim levels. The base GX trim had a 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine with 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. The GS and GT models featured a 2.5-litre engine with 191 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, while the GT Turbo had a turbocharged 2.5-litre engine producing up to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. The CX-30's six-speed automatic transmission and AWD were standard, with a Sport mode for improved performance. The GT Turbo provided robust acceleration and a thrilling driving experience, especially on twisty roads. However, the small fuel tank limited its range, and the suspension struggled with speed bumps and humps, affecting ride comfort.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was built on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), which maximized interior space and utility. Despite its hatchback appearance, it had a longer wheelbase than the seven-passenger Hyundai Palisade, offering a spacious cabin with 3,786 litres of interior volume. The Ioniq 5 prioritized passenger comfort with features like a moveable centre console and flat floor, allowing easy access from either front door. The leatherette seats were comfortable and supportive, catering to various driver sizes.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 featured standard dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and a power moonroof in most models. However, the front passenger seat had limited adjustability, and rear legroom was tight. Storage space was reasonable, with various bins and compartments throughout the cabin. The CX-30 offered 572 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,280 litres with the rear seats folded. Despite its compact size, the CX-30's interior was well-appointed, though lacking in cargo versatility.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was equipped with advanced technology, including a high-voltage energy-dense system with vehicle-to-load capabilities. It supported ultra-fast charging, reaching 80% battery capacity in 18 minutes, and could charge other devices or vehicles. The Ioniq 5 featured a redesigned Blue Link app, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, digital key, and over-the-air updates. Its 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment system were elegant and intuitive, with anti-glare coatings for clear visibility.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30's Mazda Connect infotainment system had several drawbacks, including the lack of a touchscreen display and conversational voice-recognition technology. The controls required frequent glances away from the road, and the voice-recognition system was only partially effective. The absence of a tuning knob further complicated radio operation. Despite these issues, the 8.8-inch display was well-integrated into the dashboard, with pleasing graphics and a logical menu structure. The CX-30 offered Bluetooth, HD Radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and connected services, with additional features in the Turbo models.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 featured Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) with standard features like lane keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision avoidance. It also included Hyundai Highway Drive Assist I, a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system with machine-learning adaptive cruise control. The Ioniq 5 offered a head-up display with augmented reality overlays, though it could be distracting. While crash-safety ratings were not available, Hyundai's track record suggested high safety standards.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, thanks to improved side-impact crash protection and additional safety features. The GX trim included blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, while higher trims offered adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and more. The GT and GT Turbo trims added advanced features like a surround-view camera and traffic jam assist. The CX-30's safety systems generally worked well, though some responses seemed excessive.