2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport 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 retained its luxurious interior, with the Signature trim boasting Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. The new seats provided improved comfort, addressing previous complaints about the seating. The CX-5 offered a range of trims, with prices starting at $30,500 and reaching $46,175 for a fully equipped model with the turbocharged engine.

In contrast, the 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport embraced a "modernist" and "reductive" design philosophy, resulting in a clean and simple exterior. While it lacked flashy factory options, the test vehicle in Eiger Grey with silver 23-inch wheels and a Black Exterior Pack exuded understated luxury. Inside, the Range Rover Sport featured a Deep Garnet over Ebony theme with aluminum and shiny black trim. The model lineup included Dynamic SE, Dynamic HSE, Autobiography, and the sold-out SV Edition One, with prices exceeding $120,000. Notable design elements included premium LED headlights, flush-mounted door handles, and advanced aerodynamics, while the interior showcased sustainable materials and Windsor leather upholstery.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered a choice of two engines. The base engine was a Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Fuel consumption for this powertrain was rated at 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. For those seeking more power, the turbocharged 2.5-litre engine delivered 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium gas, or 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet on regular gas. The turbo engine also featured the revised transmission and AWD, with a fuel consumption rating of 9.8 L/100 km. The CX-5's driving dynamics were improved, offering a quieter and smoother ride with reduced body roll and enhanced grip.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport aimed to balance refinement and driver engagement. It offered a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) drivetrain was available in the Autobiography trim, delivering 434 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. The Range Rover Sport's performance was supported by an eight-speed automatic transmission and an Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system, with a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms. Fuel efficiency was commendable, with an average of 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres. The SUV featured a new vehicle architecture, adaptive damping air suspension, and advanced driving modes, enhancing both on-road and off-road capabilities.

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, while the height-adjustable front passenger seat was a welcome addition. 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.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport retained its commanding driving position, with a low dashboard and thin roof pillars contributing to an airy feel. The air suspension could kneel for easier entry and exit, and the front seats offered 20-way power adjustments with heating and ventilation. The rear seat, while improved, remained tight for taller passengers, and narrow door openings posed challenges. Cargo space was generous, with 903 litres behind the rear seats and 1,500 litres with the seats folded. The SUV featured thoughtful storage solutions, including a deep bin under the centre armrest and a handy contraption to prevent items from rolling in the cargo area.

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 10-speaker Bose premium sound system in higher trims. Mazda Connected Services offered a two-year trial subscription, enhancing connectivity.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport featured a 13.7-inch digital instrumentation display and a 13.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with haptic feedback. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility were standard. However, the Pivi Pro infotainment platform proved confusing and frustrating, with limited functionality from the native digital assistant. The Range Rover Sport offered impressive Meridian audio systems and a next-generation Active Noise Cancellation system, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 prioritized safety with its 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 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 safety credentials.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Additional features included automatic high-beam headlights, a driver monitoring system, and a surround-view camera system with ClearSight Ground View. The adaptive cruise control and steering assist systems were less refined, with slow responses and occasional issues with lane centring.