2023 Volvo XC40 vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 presented a subtle evolution in its design, with new LED headlights and taillights that offered more distinctive illumination. This change aimed to address the common issue of owners driving without their regular lights on. The CX-5 also featured updated bumpers, a revised grille, a redesigned rear liftgate, and new alloy wheel designs. The top-tier Signature trim received body-colour lower exterior trim, emphasizing Mazda's ambition to position itself as a premium brand. Inside, the CX-5 retained its luxurious feel, especially in the Signature trim, with premium Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. The new seats provided enhanced comfort, and the driving position was sportier, offering a more natural relationship to the steering wheel and controls.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 maintained its distinctive look, combining Volvo's design language with a flat-roofed profile. The exterior was clean and free of unnecessary detailing, with hidden tailpipes on gasoline models reflecting Volvo's pro-electrification ethos. For 2023, updates included pixelated "Thor’s Hammer" headlights, a more angular front bumper, and new wheel designs. The XC40 shared its Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform with other Volvo and Polestar models, making it unique in North America for offering a combustion engine. Inside, the XC40 continued with its minimalist design, featuring thin air vents, scalloped door elements, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Leather upholstery was available, with vegan leather for Recharge models. The XC40 Ultimate test vehicle included a panoramic moonroof and an Orrefors crystal shift knob, though the all-black interior felt somewhat utilitarian.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered a 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 for improved responsiveness, and all models came standard with all-wheel drive. Fuel consumption was rated at 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, or 9.0 L/100 km with cylinder deactivation. 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, with a fuel consumption rating of 9.8 L/100 km. The CX-5's driving dynamics were enhanced with increased structural rigidity and reworked suspension tuning, providing a quieter, smoother, and sportier ride.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 introduced mild-hybrid powertrains, featuring a 48-volt electrical system and a 13-horsepower integrated starter generator. The B5 models in Canada were equipped with a 2.0-litre turbo-four-cylinder engine producing 247 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The B5 models could accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds. The XC40's refinement stood out, with a composed handling and a smooth ride. The XC40 Recharge variant offered a more spirited performance with two electric motors producing 402 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque, achieving a zero to 60 mph time of 4.7 seconds and a range of 359 kilometres. The Recharge also had a higher towing capacity compared to the gasoline-powered model.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints about its ride and front seats with new furnishings that provided better support and a sportier driving position. Most trims included a height-adjustable front passenger seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and heated and ventilated front seats. The back seat remained snug, but heated outboard cushions and air conditioning vents improved passenger comfort. The control layout was a point of frustration due to the non-touchscreen Mazda Connect infotainment system. Cargo space was adequate, with 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with the seats folded.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 offered reasonable space for its class, with competitive rear-seat headroom and average legroom. The XC40 provided 566 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,328 litres with them folded. Interior storage was well-designed, with scalloped door panels and a large centre console storage bin. The XC40's practicality was enhanced by a standard power tailgate and keyless entry.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display and Bluetooth, but lacked a touchscreen interface and natural voice recognition. Users had to rely on centre console and steering wheel controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system on higher trims. Mazda Connected Services offered a two-year trial subscription for new owners.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 featured an Android-based infotainment system with Google apps, including Google Maps and Google Assistant. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 9-inch touchscreen were standard, with a 13-speaker Harman Kardon audio system available. The system's graphics were pleasing, but users preferring Apple devices might find the Google features less satisfying. The lack of analog controls meant most functions were accessed via the touchscreen.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 came with a comprehensive i-Activsense package, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and more. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 offered a robust list of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added features like a 360-degree camera and Pilot Assist. The XC40 received top ratings in most IIHS crash tests, but an "Acceptable" rating in the updated side-impact test. The NHTSA awarded the gasoline XC40 a five-star overall safety rating.