2022 Kia Sportage vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Kia Sportage presented a mixed bag in terms of design. While Kia's signature tiger-nose grille was a hit on models like the Stinger and Sorento, it seemed out of place on the Sportage, resembling a Halloween party fake mustache. Despite this, the Sportage excelled in other design aspects, with its four-dot running light signature reminiscent of the Porsche Macan and a Volkswagen-style symmetry in the rear. The SX trim's 19-inch alloy wheels added to its stylish and planted stance. Inside, the Sportage boasted a Germanic design with a black dashboard, polished metallic accents, and straightforward instrumentation. The use of buttons and knobs made it user-friendly, and the solid transmission shifter added a sense of quality.

In contrast, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 maintained a consistent design language with subtle updates. New LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, and a redesigned grille gave it a refreshed look. The top-tier Signature trim featured body-colour lower exterior trim, enhancing Mazda's premium aspirations. Inside, the CX-5 retained its luxurious feel with Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. The new seats improved comfort, and the driving position felt sportier. However, the back seat remained snug, and the control layout, particularly the Mazda Connect infotainment system, was a source of frustration due to its lack of a touchscreen and natural voice recognition.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered two engine options. Most models came with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, providing a competitive but unremarkable performance. The Sportage SX, however, featured a more robust engine with 237 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, making it suitable for those living at higher elevations. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and the Dynamax all-wheel-drive system was standard on all but the base LX FWD model. The Sportage SX delivered quick acceleration, with maximum torque available between 1,450 and 3,500 rpm. The ride was smooth and compliant, with a hint of body roll, and the suspension tuning provided a sophisticated driving character. However, the steering could have been sharper, and the tires offered limited grip.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 featured a base Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a revised six-speed automatic transmission. All CX-5 models came with standard all-wheel drive. For those seeking more power, the turbocharged engine option delivered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. The turbo engine also featured the revised transmission and standard AWD. The CX-5's driving dynamics were improved, with increased structural rigidity and reworked suspension tuning, resulting in a quieter and smoother ride. The Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) offered Normal, Sport, and Off-Road settings, enhancing the driving experience. The CX-5's ride and handling were refined, with reduced body roll and improved grip, making it a compelling alternative to entry-level luxury SUVs.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, though smaller in the compact crossover segment, offered a surprisingly roomy passenger compartment. The SX trim provided comfort with perforated leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated front seats. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, air conditioning vents, and a USB charging port. However, the Sportage's cargo space was limited, with 1,703 litres of maximum cargo volume and 868 litres behind the rear seats. The smart liftgate technology was a convenient feature, allowing hands-free access to the cargo area.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints about its ride and front seats. The new seats provided better support and a sportier driving position. The back seat remained snug, but heated outboard cushions and air conditioning vents improved passenger comfort. The control layout, particularly the Mazda Connect infotainment system, was a source of frustration due to its lack of a touchscreen and natural voice recognition. Storage space was adequate, with a small centre armrest bin and wireless smartphone charging. The CX-5 offered 871 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with the seats folded, making it competitive with entry-level luxury SUVs.

The 2022 Kia Sportage came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The SX trim added UVO Intelligence connected services, satellite radio, wireless smartphone charging, and an 8-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with knobs for stereo volume and radio tuning. However, the UVO Intelligence system lacked technological sophistication, with a small screen, no WiFi hotspot, and wired smartphone mirroring.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display and Bluetooth. However, the display was not touch-sensitive, and the system lacked natural voice recognition. Users 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, which provided satisfactory audio quality. SiriusXM satellite radio was also available.

The 2022 Kia Sportage's EX and SX trims featured forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. Blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were also included. The SX trim added adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability. The Sportage received favourable crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, with the SX earning an Acceptable headlight rating, qualifying it for an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered a comprehensive i-Activsense package, including 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, automatic rear braking, and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, a distinction few rivals could match.