2023 Mazda CX-5 vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, remained a strong contender in the compact crossover SUV segment. It was stylishly designed with high-quality materials, giving it the appearance and feel of a small luxury SUV. The available turbocharged engine provided impressive power, and it boasted a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. Mazda had plans to transition the CX-5 to the CX-50, similar to how Infiniti rebranded its G37 models. This strategic move aimed to ease consumers into the change while maintaining the CX-5's reputation for quality and refinement across its six available versions.

In contrast, the 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained its appeal with a few styling updates. The M Sport treatment, however, was less popular, giving it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch wheels, enhancing its look. The X5 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder, a PHEV, and a turbo V8. The interior received a modern touch with the BMW Curved Display and reduced physical controls, while retaining the high-quality materials BMW was known for.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a standard 187-hp four-cylinder and a 256-hp turbocharged variant. The turbo engine, especially when using premium fuel, delivered 320 lb-ft of torque, making it a compelling choice. The CX-5's updates in structural rigidity, suspension, and transmission responsiveness enhanced its driving dynamics, providing a firm and communicative ride. The turbocharged engine's torque delivery was smooth, and the vehicle excelled on winding roads, though fuel consumption was higher than expected during testing.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV featured a new electric motor and a 19.2 kWh battery, offering 63 km of electric-only range. It produced 483 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, accelerating to 96 km/h in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV's adaptive damping air suspension masked its weight, providing a comfortable ride. The X5 excelled in Sport mode, delivering excellent acceleration and handling. During testing, it achieved an average fuel economy of 6.0 L/100 km, making it a standout choice for those seeking performance and efficiency.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's interior updates improved seat comfort, with power adjustments and heated options available. The Signature trim featured luxurious Nappa leather. However, the CX-5's technology and storage space were lacking, with a cramped rear seat and limited cargo capacity of 871 litres, expanding to 1,680 litres with seats folded. The infotainment system was frustrating to use, lacking voice recognition and intuitive controls.

The 2024 BMW X5 offered spacious seating for five and a cargo area of 937 litres, expanding to 2,016 litres. The split liftgate design provided convenience but required stretching to access deep cargo. The X5 featured standard Sensafin artificial leather, with options for power-adjustable seats, climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. While a third-row seat was no longer available, the X5 provided ample comfort and luxury for passengers.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system, despite its appealing display, was cumbersome to use. It lacked effective voice recognition and required manual control navigation, which was distracting. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose audio system, but the user experience was not intuitive.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured the BMW Curved Display with a 12.3-inch digital panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. It ran on BMW Operating System 8.5, offering wireless connectivity, SiriusXM, and over-the-air updates. The Intelligent Personal Assistant, however, struggled with voice recognition, impacting its effectiveness. Despite this, the head-up display and augmented video navigation provided useful driver information.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with standard i-Activsense technology offering a range of driver assistance features. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick from IIHS. However, it lacked a warning for driving without headlights at night, a notable oversight.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the Highway Assistant for hands-free driving, effective in certain conditions but occasionally prone to errant braking. The X5's driver aids operated subtly, enhancing usability. It received high ratings from IIHS, though headlight ratings prevented an award. NHTSA gave it a four-star overall rating.