2023 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 underwent subtle yet impactful 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 maintained 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 experience. The CX-5 offered a range of trims, from the budget-friendly GX to the performance-oriented Sport Design and Signature, with prices ranging from $30,500 to $43,650, excluding destination charges.

In contrast, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe retained its conservative yet attractive design, with a focus on practicality and comfort. The five-passenger SUV was available in four trims in Canada, all featuring standard all-wheel drive. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim, tested in the U.S., showcased a rich Stormy Sea paint and a black interior with Nappa leather seats. The cabin exuded quality, though it was somewhat dark and monotone. The Santa Fe's interior offered a range of comfort features, including heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The vehicle's design prioritized spaciousness, with ample rear-seat legroom and cargo capacity, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options, starting with the Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, delivering a fuel consumption rate of 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. For those seeking more power, the turbocharged 2.5-litre engine provided 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium gas, with a slightly higher fuel consumption rate. The CX-5's driving dynamics were enhanced by increased structural rigidity and reworked suspension tuning, resulting in a quieter and smoother ride with improved handling.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a choice between a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre engine with 191 horsepower and a turbocharged version producing 281 horsepower. The turbocharged engine, available in the Urban and Ultimate Calligraphy trims, delivered impressive acceleration and passing power, especially in Sport mode. The Santa Fe's eight-speed "wet" dual-clutch automatic transmission provided smooth shifts without the clunkiness often associated with such systems. The vehicle's drive-mode selector allowed customization of driving dynamics, while the turbocharged engine's performance was complemented by a quiet and refined ride. The Santa Fe's towing capacity varied between 907 kilograms for the non-turbo version and 1,587 kilograms for the turbo model.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints about its ride and seating comfort with new furnishings and a sportier driving position. The interior featured leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic 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, making it competitive with entry-level luxury SUVs.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe prioritized spaciousness and comfort, offering generous rear-seat legroom and cargo capacity. The vehicle's two-row configuration allowed for 1,032 litres of cargo space behind the second row, expandable to 2,041 litres with the seats folded. The Santa Fe's interior featured an eight-way power driver's seat, heated front seats, and a range of convenience features, including a hands-free smart liftgate and a head-up display. While the Santa Fe's design had some minor drawbacks, such as limited driver leg and hip space, its overall comfort and practicality were standout features.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display, Bluetooth, and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the lack of a touchscreen and natural voice recognition made the system less user-friendly. The optional Bose premium sound system provided decent audio quality, and Mazda Connected Services offered a complimentary two-year trial subscription.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe excelled in in-vehicle technology, featuring a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system in the top trims. The Santa Fe's infotainment system offered extensive customization options, though its voice-recognition capabilities were mixed. The vehicle's advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) provided a comprehensive suite of safety features, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 boasted a comprehensive i-Activsense package, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, 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 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe offered an extensive array of standard safety-related ADAS, including forward-collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim featured Highway Driving Assist, enhancing the driving experience. The Santa Fe received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, underscoring its commitment to safety.