2023 Mazda CX-50 vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia, a stalwart in the SUV market, continued its second generation into its 14th year without substantial changes. Its exterior design, characterized by a modestly sized grille and elegant wheel arches, maintained a classic appeal amidst evolving SUV trends. Despite its mature design, the Sequoia's interior felt dated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen that seemed out of place in a modern vehicle. However, the interior's build quality was typical of Toyota, with high-quality materials and a robust construction designed to withstand the rigours of family use.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-50 showcased a blend of ruggedness and elegance, with a blunt nose, long hood, and rakish windshield. Its design elements, including blistered fender swells and oversized air intakes, conveyed a sense of performance without being overbearing. The CX-50's interior featured a driver-focused design with quality materials and a mix of analog and digital gauges. While the interior was generally well-received, some design choices, like the small off-centre vent, seemed like afterthoughts. Overall, the CX-50 presented a modern and appealing aesthetic both inside and out.

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, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, offered a reliable and durable performance. The Sequoia's truck roots provided a payload capacity of up to 608 kilograms and a towing capacity of 3,221 kilograms. Despite its hefty weight of around 2,721.5 kilograms, the Sequoia delivered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities thanks to its body-on-frame construction and four-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 offered two engine options: a 187 hp 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and a turbocharged version producing up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. The turbo engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and Mazda’s i-Activ AWD system, provided smooth acceleration and increased towing capacity from 907 to 1,587 kilograms. The CX-50's fuel economy was commendable, with the turbo engine averaging 10.1 L/100 km. The SUV's driving dynamics were likened to a modern station wagon, offering a firm yet comfortable ride with a higher ground clearance suitable for off-road adventures.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, offering spacious seating across all three rows with ample headroom and legroom. Features like three-zone climate control and a power moonroof enhanced the cabin experience. The Sequoia's cargo space was generous, with 535 litres behind the third row and up to 3,401 litres with the second and third rows folded flat, making it ideal for family trips and outdoor activities.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 provided a comfortable interior with power-adjustable heated seats, dual-zone climate control, and a spacious back seat. While storage space was adequate, some opportunities for additional storage were missed. The CX-50 offered 889 litres of cargo space, expanding to 1,595 litres with the rear seats folded. Despite its lower roofline compared to the CX-5, the CX-50's cargo area was practical, with side bins and hooks for securing items.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology was somewhat outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, the infotainment system felt clunky compared to competitors. The Sequoia did feature a 14-speaker JBL premium audio system on higher trims and standard LED lighting across the exterior.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 came equipped with a Mazda Connect infotainment system featuring a 10.25-inch display, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. While Mazda Connect's interface was not touchscreen-friendly, the CX-50 allowed touchscreen control for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available 12-speaker Bose sound system and Active Driving Display added to the vehicle's technological appeal, providing a satisfying audio experience and useful driver information.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia lacked crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS but was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense P, offering features like pre-collision system, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The STAR safety system included stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags, ensuring a safe driving experience.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 earned a Top Safety Pick rating from IIHS, with some headlight configurations falling short of the Top Safety Pick+ designation. Mazda provided a comprehensive package of driving assistance systems, including active blind-spot monitoring and Traffic Jam Assist. However, the adaptive cruise control occasionally failed to recognize vehicles cutting into the gap ahead, highlighting a need for improved sensitivity.