2022 Mazda CX-5 vs 2022 Kia EV6

The 2022 Kia EV6 presented a striking and sporty design, reminiscent of a Ford Mustang Mach-E, with a lower and wider stance that gave it a visually appealing presence. Its design elements, such as the highback tail with a lip spoiler doubling as a lightbar, and the voluptuous curves akin to a Porsche 911, added both style and stability. The EV6's headlights, with their squinting, V-shaped pattern, and the sealed air intake mimicking trim, contributed to its aggressive look. The wedgy profile, smooth matte silver paint, and unique features like recessed lights and a hidden charge port, made the EV6 a standout in terms of industrial design, capturing attention with its blend of aesthetics and functionality.

Inside, the EV6 featured a futuristic interior with dual 12-inch screens on a linear dash, a floating centre console, and seats covered in faux suede and leather. Ambient lighting enhanced the sci-fi feel, while the hockey-puck shifter and digital controls set it apart from basic models. The design prioritized a car-first, computer-second approach, making the EV6 an enjoyable drive with its wild yet cohesive aesthetic.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5, while not drastically different in appearance from its predecessors, introduced new LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, a redesigned grille, and a fresh rear liftgate. The top Signature trim featured body-colour lower exterior trim, emphasizing Mazda's premium aspirations. Inside, the CX-5 maintained its luxurious feel with Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. The new seats improved comfort, offering a more natural driving position and support. The CX-5's interior, though unchanged in layout, provided a sense of luxury and comfort, with features like dual-zone climate control, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel.

The 2022 Kia EV6, particularly in its GT-Line e-AWD configuration, delivered impressive performance with its dual electric motors producing 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. This setup allowed the EV6 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds, showcasing its agility and power. The upcoming GT trim promised even more with 576 hp and a sub-3.5-second 0-60 time. The EV6's handling was sharp, with torque distributed effectively between the motors, providing a seamless driving experience. The regenerative braking system offered extensive control, with multiple settings for deceleration, and the ability to drive using just one pedal. However, the EV6's range was a concern, especially in cold weather, where it fell short of Kia's estimates, highlighting the challenges of electric vehicles in northern climates.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered a choice between a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre engine with 187 hp and a turbocharged version producing up to 256 hp on premium fuel. The revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD enhanced its performance, while the new Mi-Drive system provided different driving modes for varied conditions. The CX-5's driving dynamics were improved, with increased structural rigidity and reworked suspension tuning, resulting in a quieter, smoother ride with reduced body roll. The turbocharged engine, though less fuel-efficient, provided a satisfying driving experience, especially in high-altitude areas.

The 2022 Kia EV6 featured innovative design elements, such as pop-out door handles and a rotary shifter, but its climate and stereo controls, combined in a thin touchscreen, could be frustrating to use while driving. The interior offered generous legroom and headroom, with reclining rear seats and optional heated cushions. However, the cargo space was limited, with 690 litres behind the seats and 1,322 litres when folded, making it comparable to a subcompact SUV. The EV6's towing capacity was 1,043 kilograms, and it included an onboard power generator for added utility.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints with new, supportive seats and a sportier driving position. The interior featured leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and heated and ventilated seats, enhancing comfort. The back seat remained snug, but heated cushions and air vents improved passenger comfort. The control layout, centred around the Mazda Connect system, required acclimation due to the lack of a touchscreen and natural voice recognition. Cargo space was adequate, with 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with them folded, offering a balance between luxury and practicality.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was user-friendly, though it lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The instrument panel provided useful features like blind spot live feeds and a 3D bar graph of power and speed. The 360-degree cameras and augmented reality head-up display added to the tech appeal, while the Meridian stereo and remote parking assist enhanced convenience. Overall, the EV6's tech was impressive without being overwhelming.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect system with a 10.25-inch display, but the lack of a touchscreen and natural voice recognition made it less intuitive. The system required using centre console controls, which could be cumbersome. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, providing necessary connectivity. The optional Bose sound system offered decent audio quality, and Mazda Connected Services included a complimentary two-year trial for new owners.

The 2022 Kia EV6 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision avoidance, lane keep assist, and driver attention warning. Higher trims offered blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and 360 cameras. However, there were no published test results from safety organizations.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 boasted a robust i-Activsense package with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera system, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, underscoring its safety credentials.