2022 Mazda CX-5 vs 2022 Hyundai Tucson

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson, built on a new platform, was offered in North America as a long-wheelbase model, providing two rows of seating and an expanded cargo area. Its front design featured a parametric grille that cleverly concealed LED daytime running lights, Bi-LED headlights, and LED front turn signals, creating a distinctive shape reminiscent of the Aztec Spirit Bird. The side profile borrowed design cues from the Hyundai Elantra, with a silver D-pillar that gave the Tucson a unique floating roof appearance. At the rear, the Tucson boasted toothy taillights illuminated by LEDs, contributing to its standout design among compact SUVs. Depending on the trim level, the Tucson rode on either 17- or 19-inch alloy wheels, with high-end models featuring premium fascias, gloss black pillars, and a panoramic sunroof. The interior was well-appointed, with stain- and odour-resistant cloth seats as standard, and leather-trimmed options available on higher trims. The dashboard's horizontal lines and uncluttered aesthetic added to the sense of spaciousness.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 underwent subtle exterior updates, including new LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, a redesigned grille, and a fresh rear liftgate. The top-of-the-line Signature trim featured body-colour lower exterior trim, enhancing Mazda's premium brand aspirations. Inside, the CX-5 retained its luxurious feel, with the Signature trim offering Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. The seats were new for 2022, providing improved comfort and support. The CX-5's driving experience was enhanced by increased structural rigidity and reworked suspension tuning, resulting in a quieter and smoother ride. The Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) system offered Normal, Sport, and Off-Road settings, contributing to the CX-5's sporty handling. The interior layout remained unchanged, with a focus on premium materials and a sporty driving position. However, the infotainment system's lack of a touchscreen and natural voice recognition was a drawback, requiring drivers to rely on centre console controls.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson offered two powertrain options: a 2.5-litre direct-injected four-cylinder engine and a hybrid powertrain with a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor. The ICE engine produced 187 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, while the hybrid delivered a combined 226 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid powertrain was more powerful and fuel-efficient, with a consumption rating of 6.4 L/100 km combined. The Tucson's AWD system performed well in off-road testing, providing stability on loose gravel roads. The upcoming plug-in hybrid version promised even more power, with an estimated 261 horsepower and 224 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful in the Tucson lineup.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 featured a Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine as its base, producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. All CX-5 models came with standard AWD, and the revised six-speed automatic transmission offered improved responsiveness. The turbocharged engine option provided 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. The CX-5's fuel consumption was rated at 9.8 L/100 km combined for the turbo engine. The Mi-Drive system enhanced the driving experience, offering Normal, Sport, and Off-Road modes. The 2022 CX-5's improved driving dynamics, reduced noise, and enhanced ride quality made it a compelling choice for those seeking a sporty and premium driving experience.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson offered a spacious and well-appointed interior, comparable to its competitors like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Ford Escape. It featured a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat as standard, with an eight-way version available on higher trims. Heated front seats were standard, with ventilated front seats and heated rear seats available. The Tucson's new platform provided more passenger and cargo space, with a 1,095-litre cargo capacity. The rear seats offered 90 millimetres more legroom than the RAV4, and the cabin comfortably accommodated a family of four. The dual-level cargo floor and 60-40 split-folding rear bench seat added to its practicality.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints about its ride and seating comfort with new furnishings. The seats provided improved support and a sportier driving position. The CX-5's back seat remained snug, but heated outboard cushions and air conditioning vents enhanced passenger comfort. The control layout, however, was a source of frustration, with the Mazda Connect infotainment system lacking a touchscreen and natural voice recognition. Storage space was adequate, with wireless smartphone charging and door armrest trays. The CX-5's cargo space was 871 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,680 litres with the seats folded, making it competitive with entry-level luxury SUVs.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson came equipped with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, a six-speaker audio system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, HD Radio, Bluetooth, and two USB ports. Higher trims offered a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen with navigation, satellite radio, and Blue Link mobile app compatibility. The touchpoints on the centre console were challenging to use while driving, requiring reliance on steering wheel controls and voice commands. The Tucson's tech features were comprehensive, providing a strong set of standard and available options.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display and Bluetooth. However, the lack of a touchscreen and natural voice recognition made it less user-friendly. Drivers had to rely on centre console and steering wheel controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with text-messaging support and Mazda Connected Services. The CX-5 offered a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system on higher trims, providing a satisfactory audio experience. While the tech features were adequate, the system's usability could be improved with touchscreen functionality and advanced voice recognition.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson featured the Hyundai SmartSense Safety Feature suite, including forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, automatic high beams, and a driver attention monitor. Additional safety features like blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system were available. The Tucson had not been tested by the IIHS or NHTSA, but its comprehensive safety features were comparable to those in luxury SUVs. Hyundai offered a 5-year/100,000-kilometre limited warranty for added peace of mind.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 came with the i-Activsense package, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera system, parking sensors, and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, highlighting its strong safety credentials. The head-up display with blind-spot warning further enhanced safety by keeping the driver's focus on the road.