2023 Kia Sportage vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Kia Sportage underwent a significant redesign, presenting a bold and exotic appearance that drew comparisons to French automotive styling. Its distinctive features, such as the boomerang-shaped daytime running lights and textured metal trim on the D Pillar, added a touch of class to this compact crossover. The Sportage was available in five trim levels in Canada, with the base LX offering front-wheel drive and the higher trims featuring all-wheel drive. Inside, Kia opted for synthetic leather upholstery, which, while durable, lacked the premium feel of genuine leather. The cabin boasted a large display, but some areas, like the hard plastic plate near the door handle, detracted from the overall experience.

In contrast, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 maintained its elegant design with subtle updates, including new LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, and a refreshed grille. The top-tier Signature trim featured body-colour lower exterior trim, enhancing its premium appeal. Inside, the CX-5 retained its luxurious feel with Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. The new seats provided improved comfort, and the driving position felt sportier. However, the back seat remained snug, and the control layout, particularly the Mazda Connect infotainment system, posed some usability challenges.

The 2023 Kia Sportage offered a 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While it delivered slightly more power than its predecessor, it lacked the punch of the previous turbocharged engine. Fuel economy was reasonable, with figures of 9.3 L/100 km in the city and 7.4 on the highway for front-wheel drive models. The Sportage's off-road capabilities were adequate, with 21 centimetres of ground clearance on AWD models, but it lacked the rugged features of the X-Pro trims available in other markets.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 featured a Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, coupled with a revised six-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive was standard across the lineup, and fuel consumption was rated at 9.3 L/100 km in combined driving. For those seeking more power, the turbocharged engine option delivered up to 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium gas. The CX-5's driving dynamics were improved, offering a quieter and smoother ride with reduced body roll and enhanced grip, making it a compelling choice for driving enthusiasts.

The 2023 Kia Sportage grew in size compared to its predecessor, offering more interior space. Rear-seat legroom measured an impressive 1,050 mm, and the trunk provided 1,121 litres of cargo space, expandable to 2,098 litres with the rear seats folded. The front seats offered decent storage options, but the touch-sensitive HVAC controls proved frustrating to use while driving.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints about its ride and seating comfort with new furnishings. The front seats were more supportive, and the driving position felt sportier. However, the back seat remained snug, and the control layout, particularly the non-touchscreen infotainment system, posed usability challenges. Cargo space was adequate, with 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with the seats folded, making it competitive with entry-level luxury SUVs.

The 2023 Kia Sportage impressed with its technology offerings, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system on higher trims. However, the lack of wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay on the top interface was a drawback. The Sportage included Bluetooth, keyless entry, and a wireless charger on higher trims, with a Harman Kardon audio system on the X-Line Limited.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display, but it lacked touch sensitivity and natural voice recognition. Users had to rely on centre console controls, which took time to get used to. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a Bose premium sound system on higher trims. Mazda Connected Services offered a complimentary two-year trial subscription.

The 2023 Kia Sportage came equipped with a comprehensive suite of collision-avoidance tech and advanced driver assistance systems, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and a backup camera. Higher trims added features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. However, the 2023 Sportage had not yet been crash-tested by major safety organizations.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 boasted a robust i-Activsense package, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights and a surround-view camera system. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, highlighting its strong safety credentials.