2023 Mazda CX-5 vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a staple in the crossover SUV market, had evolved significantly since its North American debut in 1996. Initially embraced by young buyers for its compact size amidst a sea of large SUVs, the RAV4 had grown in both dimension and sophistication over five generations. By 2022, it had shed its "cute ute" image to become a mature and popular choice, often topping SUV sales charts in Canada. Its exterior design, while blending in with contemporary crossover aesthetics, featured distinctive angular flourishes and expressive headlights that gave it a playful yet aggressive look. Inside, the RAV4 boasted a layered dash with contrasting textures and a user-friendly touchscreen interface, complemented by unique design elements like a circuit-board-inspired pattern that tied the cabin together.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its impending redesign and renaming to the CX-50, remained a strong contender in the compact crossover segment. Known for its stylish appearance and high-quality materials, the CX-5 exuded a luxury feel uncommon in its class. The available turbocharged engine provided impressive power, and the model boasted a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. However, its small back seat, cramped cargo area, and frustrating infotainment system were potential drawbacks. Mazda's decision to transition to the CX-50 was part of a broader marketing strategy, aiming to direct loyal customers to the new model while maintaining the CX-5's reputation for quality and refinement.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered a choice of three powertrains, starting with a gasoline-only model featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, provided smooth and immediate power delivery, making it suitable for everyday driving. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a similar engine with an electric motor, delivering 217 net horsepower and impressive fuel economy ratings of 5.8 L/100 km city and 6.0 combined. The RAV4 Prime, a plug-in hybrid, boasted 302 horsepower and could run up to 68 kilometres on electricity alone, with a combined efficiency rating of 2.5 Le/100 km. The RAV4's handling was enhanced by its four-wheel independent suspension and dynamic torque vectoring, ensuring a car-like driving experience.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options, starting with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. The more enticing option was the 2.5-litre turbocharged engine, delivering up to 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium fuel. This engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD, provided a rewarding driving experience, especially on twisty roads. The CX-5's structural and suspension updates improved its ride quality, reducing body roll and enhancing its sporty character. However, the turbocharged engine's fuel economy fell short of expectations during testing, highlighting the trade-off between performance and efficiency.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered ample interior space, with up to 1,059 litres of luggage capacity behind the second row and 1,977 litres with the seats folded flat. It could comfortably accommodate four adults, with plenty of legroom and headroom in the front seats. The RAV4's towing capacity varied by model, with Trail and TRD Off-Road versions capable of towing up to 1,588 kilograms. Inside, the RAV4 featured numerous storage options, including cupholders, bottle holders, and a roomy glove compartment.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, while stylish and luxurious, had limitations in terms of interior space. It offered 871 litres of cargo space behind the rear seat and 1,680 litres with the seats folded down, less than some competitors. The front seats were improved for comfort, and higher trims included features like heated and ventilated seats, dual-zone climate control, and Nappa leather upholstery. However, the back seat was cramped, and in-cabin storage was limited. The CX-5's infotainment system, while visually appealing, was frustrating to use, lacking a touchscreen interface and a conversational voice recognition system.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with a range of technology features, starting with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, an 11-speaker JBL audio system, and advanced features like a bird’s-eye view camera system and a head-up display. The RAV4 Prime showcased additional tech, including multiple USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and ambient lighting.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system featured a 10.25-inch display with sophisticated graphics but was criticized for its lack of a touchscreen and cumbersome controls. The system required memorization and focus to operate, making it less user-friendly than competitors. Despite this, the CX-5 offered features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose premium audio system on upper trims. The test vehicle also included a front-facing camera and a surround-view camera system for easier parking.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with Toyota's Star Safety System, which included features like vehicle stability control, traction control, and anti-lock braking. It also came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering driver-assist systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. The RAV4 received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, with the RAV4 Prime earning a Top Safety Pick+ designation.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with its i-Activsense suite of driver assistance technologies. Standard features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added a surround-view camera system, parking sensors, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick ranking from the IIHS. However, a notable issue was the lack of a warning for driving without headlights at night, which Mazda needed to address.