2023 Toyota RAV4 vs 2023 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, continued to be a strong contender in the compact crossover SUV market. It was known for its stylish design and high-quality materials, giving it the feel of a small luxury SUV. The available turbocharged engine provided impressive power, and it 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 had plans to transition the CX-5 to the CX-50, similar to how Infiniti rebranded its G37 models, hoping to smoothly guide loyal customers to the new model.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 maintained its design from 2019, with the Trail trim featuring a distinctive two-part face. It offered a range of trims, from the basic LE to the more luxurious Limited, with prices reflecting the level of features. The Trail trim added rugged styling elements, but it was more about appearance than off-road capability. Inside, the RAV4 had orange accents and a frameless rearview mirror, adding a touch of premium feel. While the interior was fairly basic, it provided practical storage options and a more rugged, truck-like nature compared to competitors like the Toyota Venza.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options. The base model featured a Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. It had a fuel economy rating of 9.0 L/100 km in combined driving. The more enticing option was the 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. This engine also came with a six-speed automatic and AWD, with a fuel economy of 9.8 L/100 km. The turbo engine's power increase was complemented by structural and suspension improvements, enhancing the CX-5's driving dynamics and reducing body roll.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came with a single engine choice for its gas-powered models: a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. While the RAV4's performance was not particularly exciting, it was reliable and offered a smooth ride. The Trail trim featured 19-inch wheels and a suspension setup similar to other RAV4 models, providing a comfortable driving experience. The RAV4's engine was not as quiet as some competitors, but it was not overly loud either.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 received updates to its front seats for improved comfort and support. It offered a range of features, including power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Signature trim added luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. However, the CX-5's interior space was limited, with smaller storage areas, a cramped back seat, and less cargo space compared to rivals. It provided 871 litres of cargo space behind the rear seat and 1,680 litres with the seats folded down.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 was designed to seat five, with headroom of 958 mm in the front and 1,001 mm in the back. It offered 1,039 mm of front legroom and 960 mm in the rear, making it competitive in terms of space. The RAV4 provided practical storage options, including a shelf above the glove compartment and large door pockets. Cargo space was a strong point, with 1,059 litres behind the second row and 1,977 litres with the seats folded, surpassing the CX-5 in this regard.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system featured a 10.25-inch display with sophisticated graphics. However, it lacked a helpful voice recognition system, and the physical controls were awkward to use. The system required memorization and focus, making it distracting. Despite these issues, it offered features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose premium audio system. The test vehicle included a front-facing camera and a surround-view camera system for easier parking.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 introduced a new infotainment system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen as standard, and a 10.5-inch screen for the Limited trim. It supported over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The RAV4 included Toyota's connected services, with some requiring a subscription. The Limited trim featured an 11-speaker JBL audio system, while the Trail trim had a standard six-speaker setup. A 7-inch driver-information display was standard, with a 12.3-inch version for the Limited trim.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety features, with most technology offered as standard under the i-Activsense banner. The 2.5 Turbo Signature trim included exclusive features like a surround-view camera system and Traffic Jam Assist. The i-Activsense tech operated smoothly, with features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-departure warning. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick ranking from the IIHS.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came with standard safety features, including lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. It was equipped with the TSS 2.5 suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, including Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. The RAV4 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, with strong crash-test performance.