2022 Mazda CX-5 vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 underwent subtle yet significant exterior updates, including new LED headlights and taillights, redesigned bumpers, a revised grille, and a fresh rear liftgate. These changes aimed to enhance the vehicle's premium appeal, especially in the top-tier Signature trim, which featured body-colour lower exterior trim. Inside, the CX-5 retained its luxurious feel with premium Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. The new seats provided improved comfort, addressing previous complaints about the seating position. The CX-5 offered a range of trims, with prices starting at $30,500 and going up to $43,650 for the Signature trim, which included a turbocharged engine as standard.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 continued its evolution from a "cute ute" to a mature crossover SUV, maintaining its position as a sales leader. The exterior design featured angular flourishes and expressive headlights, giving it a distinctive look. Inside, the RAV4 boasted a layered dash with contrasting textures and colours, complemented by a user-friendly touchscreen interface. The cabin design incorporated a circuit-board-inspired geometric pattern, adding a unique touch. The RAV4's Trail grade, tested in the U.S., showcased 19-inch matte gray alloy wheels and a well-thought-out interior layout, making it a practical choice for various driving needs.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered a Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque as its base engine. This engine was paired with a revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). Fuel consumption for this powertrain was rated at 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. For those seeking more power, the turbocharged engine delivered 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium gas, with slightly lower figures on regular gas. The turbocharged engine also featured the revised transmission and AWD, with a fuel consumption rating of 9.8 L/100 km in combined driving. The CX-5's driving dynamics were enhanced with increased structural rigidity and reworked suspension tuning, providing a quieter and smoother ride.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrain options. The gasoline-only model featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy for this model ranged from 7.9 to 8.5 L/100 km combined, depending on the drivetrain. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre engine with an electric motor, delivering 217 horsepower and achieving a fuel economy rating of 6.0 L/100 km combined. The RAV4 Prime, a plug-in hybrid, offered 302 horsepower and an electric-only range of up to 68 kilometres. It featured a 3.3-kilowatt on-board charger, with an optional 6.6-kW charger for faster charging. The RAV4's handling was enhanced with a four-wheel independent suspension and dynamic torque vectoring, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints about its ride and seating comfort with new furnishings. The seats provided better support and a sportier driving position. The interior featured leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and heated and ventilated front seats. However, the back seat remained snug, and the control layout of the Mazda Connect infotainment system was a source of frustration. Cargo space was adequate, with 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with the seats folded down.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered generous cargo space, with 1,059 litres behind the second row and 1,977 litres with the seats folded flat. It had a healthy payload capacity and towing capabilities, making it a versatile choice for various needs. Inside, the RAV4 provided ample space for four adults, with comfortable front seats and a well-designed cabin layout. The XLE grade added features like dual-zone climate control and a power-adjustable driver's seat. The RAV4's interior was practical, with plenty of storage options and cupholders throughout the cabin.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display and Bluetooth connectivity. However, the lack of a touchscreen and natural voice recognition made the system less user-friendly. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a Bose premium sound system on higher trims. Mazda offered a complimentary two-year trial subscription to its connected services for new CX-5 owners.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, and a six-speaker audio system as standard. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, an 11-speaker JBL audio system, and additional features like navigation and Safety Connect. The RAV4 Prime showcased advanced technology, including multiple USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and a wireless smartphone charging pad. Top trims also offered a bird’s-eye view camera system and a head-up display.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 featured a comprehensive i-Activsense package, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. 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, highlighting its strong safety credentials.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota’s Star Safety System, which included stability control, traction control, and anti-lock braking. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 was standard, offering features like a pre-collision system, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure alert. The RAV4 received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, with the RAV4 Prime earning a "Top Safety Pick+" rating. The NHTSA awarded the RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid their highest five-star rating.