2023 Mazda CX-5 vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 presented a refreshed exterior with new LED headlights and taillights, aiming to enhance visibility. The model also featured updated bumpers, a revised grille, and a redesigned rear liftgate, alongside new alloy wheel designs. The Signature trim stood out with body-colour lower exterior trim, emphasizing Mazda's premium aspirations. Inside, the CX-5 maintained its luxurious feel, especially in the Signature trim, with Nappa leather upholstery and real wood trim. The seats were redesigned for 2022, offering improved comfort. The model 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 Mazda CX-5 continued to impress with its stylish design and high-quality materials, resembling a small luxury SUV. Despite its age, the model remained a strong contender in the compact crossover segment, offering a turbocharged engine with impressive power. The 2023 model was available in six versions, with prices starting at $31,250 for the GX and reaching $44,250 for the 2.5 Turbo Signature. The test vehicle, a 2.5 Turbo Signature, featured premium Nappa leather upholstery and Rhodium White metallic paint, bringing the total cost to $46,755, including destination charges. The 2023 CX-5 maintained its reputation for quality and sophistication, appealing to those seeking a refined driving experience.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered a Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). Fuel consumption was rated at 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. The turbocharged variant delivered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas, with a fuel consumption of 9.8 L/100 km. The 2022 model featured improved structural rigidity, suspension tuning, and a Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) system, enhancing driving dynamics and comfort.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 retained the same engine options, with the base model offering 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque. The turbocharged engine provided 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. The 2023 model continued to benefit from the previous year's updates, including increased structural rigidity and improved suspension dampening. The turbocharged engine delivered a smooth and quick acceleration, with a fuel consumption of 11.0 L/100 km during testing. The 2023 CX-5 maintained its sporty driving experience, with responsive steering and brakes, making it a joy to drive on various road conditions.

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

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 continued to offer improved seating comfort, with height-adjustable seats and premium Nappa leather in higher trims. Despite high-quality materials, the model's technology, storage space, and rear-seat room were lacking. The infotainment system lacked a touchscreen and voice recognition, making it challenging to use. Cargo space remained the same as the 2022 model, with 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with the seats folded.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 featured a 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 cumbersome to use. A 10-speaker Bose premium sound system was optional on GT and standard from Sport Design.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 retained the same infotainment system, with a 10.25-inch display and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system's physical controls were awkward, requiring memorization and focus. The lack of a touchscreen and voice recognition made it less user-friendly. The model offered a Bose premium audio system and a surround-view camera system in higher trims.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 came with a comprehensive i-Activsense package, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights and a surround-view camera system. The model received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 continued to offer extensive safety features under the i-Activsense banner, with most technology standard. Exclusive features for the 2.5 Turbo Signature included a surround-view camera system and Traffic Jam Assist. The model received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA.