2022 Mazda CX-5 vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia, a continuation of its second generation, showcased a mature design that had remained largely unchanged since its last major overhaul in 2008. Despite its age, the Sequoia maintained a classic exterior with a modestly sized grille and elegant wheel arches, avoiding the oversized trends seen in other SUVs. Its dimensions were substantial, with a height of 1,956 mm, a width of 2,030 mm, and a length of 5,210 mm, riding on a 3,099 mm wheelbase. The interior, however, felt dated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen that seemed out of place in the modern SUV market. Nevertheless, the Sequoia's interior was built with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity, making it suitable for families.

In contrast, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 featured subtle exterior updates, including new LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, and a redesigned grille. The top-of-the-line Signature trim received body-colour lower exterior trim, enhancing Mazda's premium brand aspirations. Inside, the CX-5 retained its luxurious feel with Nappa leather upholstery and real wood trim. The new seats provided improved comfort and support, addressing previous complaints. The driving position was sportier, and the interior featured dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. However, the back seat remained snug, and the control layout of the Mazda Connect infotainment system was a source of frustration due to its lack of a touchscreen and natural voice recognition.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a 5.7-litre i-Force V8 engine, producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a lockable Torsen limited-slip centre differential in 4WD models. The Sequoia boasted a payload capacity of up to 608 kilograms and a towing capacity of 3,221 kilograms. Despite its weight of approximately 2,721.5 kilograms, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities thanks to its body-on-frame construction and four-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension. However, its fuel consumption ratings were high, with 18.5 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 13.9 on the highway.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered a choice between a Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, and a turbocharged version producing up to 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium gas. All CX-5 models came with standard all-wheel drive and a revised six-speed automatic transmission. The turbocharged engine delivered a fuel consumption rating of 9.8 L/100 km in combined driving, although real-world testing showed 11.1 L/100 km. The CX-5's driving dynamics were improved with increased structural rigidity and reworked suspension tuning, providing a quieter and smoother ride. The Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) offered Normal, Sport, and Off-Road settings, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort with spacious seating across all three rows, offering ample headroom and legroom. It featured three-zone climate control, a power moonroof, and heated front seats as standard. The cargo compartment provided 535 litres of space behind the third row, expanding to 1,886 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 3,401 litres with both the second and third rows folded. The Sequoia's interior storage options included a large centre console, glove compartment, and door pockets.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints about its ride and seating with new, more comfortable furnishings. The driving position was sportier, and the interior featured leather upholstery, dual-zone 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 of the Mazda Connect infotainment system was a challenge, lacking a touchscreen and natural voice recognition. Cargo space was adequate, with 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with the back seat folded.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's infotainment system felt outdated with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen. However, it offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Platinum and TRD Pro trims added navigation and a 14-speaker JBL premium audio system. The Sequoia's technology under the hood lagged behind competitors, lacking turbocharged or electrified powertrains. However, it featured LED exterior lighting and standard safety technologies like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display and Bluetooth. The system lacked a touchscreen and natural voice recognition, requiring the use of centre console and steering wheel controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with text-messaging support and Mazda Connected Services. The GT and higher trims included a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system and SiriusXM satellite radio. The lack of a touchscreen and advanced voice recognition was a drawback, but the system was functional once acclimated.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia lacked crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, but it offered a comprehensive suite of safety features. The Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) included a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. Standard blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and a full complement of airbags contributed to its safety credentials.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 excelled in 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 adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera system, parking sensors, automatic rear braking, and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, highlighting its superior safety performance.