2024 Kia EV9 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 praised for its stylish design and high-quality materials, giving it the appearance and feel of a luxury vehicle. The available turbocharged engine provided impressive power, and the model boasted a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. However, its small back seat, limited cargo space, and frustrating infotainment system were potential drawbacks. Mazda's decision to transition the CX-5 to the CX-50 was part of a broader marketing strategy, similar to Infiniti's renaming of its G37 models. This move aimed to ease consumers into the change while maintaining the vehicle's reputation for quality and sophistication.

In contrast, the 2024 Kia EV9 represented a bold step forward for Kia's electric vehicle lineup. Its exterior design was distinctly Kia, with a modern twist featuring blocky lines and unique lighting signatures. The EV9's "Star Map" daytime running lights and optional Digital Pattern Lighting Grille added a futuristic touch. The vehicle's lighting options were customizable, allowing owners to purchase additional patterns. This innovative approach to design and customization set the EV9 apart from traditional SUVs, offering a glimpse into the future of automotive aesthetics.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options, starting with the standard 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, achieving a fuel economy rating of 9.0 L/100 km in combined driving. The more enticing option was the 2.5-litre turbocharged engine, delivering 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel, or 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft on regular fuel. This engine also featured a six-speed automatic transmission and AWD, with a fuel economy of 9.8 L/100 km. The turbocharged engine's power increase, along with structural and suspension improvements, enhanced the CX-5's driving dynamics, making it feel more like an entry-level luxury vehicle. The CX-5 excelled on winding roads, offering a firm and communicative ride, though it could be choppy on rough surfaces.

The 2024 Kia EV9, on the other hand, offered a range of powertrain options. The base Light trim featured a single motor with rear-wheel drive, producing 215 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, with an electric range of 370 kilometres. The Wind model, with a larger 99.8-kWh battery, provided 201 horsepower and a range of 489 kilometres. The top Land trim offered all-wheel drive with dual motors, generating 379 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, with a range of 451 kilometres. The GT-Line variant prioritized performance, reducing the range to 435 kilometres. The EV9's power delivery was smooth and refined, with good handling and minimal body roll. Its regenerative braking system was adjustable, offering a natural feel comparable to gas-powered vehicles. The EV9 also featured fast charging capability, allowing it to charge from 10 to 80 percent in 25 minutes on a high-speed DC fast charger.

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 premium Nappa leather upholstery in the Signature trim. However, the CX-5's interior space was limited, with small storage areas, cramped rear seats, and a cargo capacity of 871 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,680 litres with the seats folded down.

The 2024 Kia EV9 stood out with its spacious third row, offering ample headroom of 1,004 millimetres, surpassing competitors like the Kia Telluride and BMW X7. Third-row legroom ranged from 783 to 813 millimetres, depending on the middle row's configuration. The EV9 could seat up to seven passengers, with second-row captain's chairs available in higher trims. Cargo space was competitive, with 572 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,231 litres with the third row folded and 2,313 litres with only the front seats in place. The EV9's high and flat load floor made loading and unloading easier. Up front, the EV9 featured a "floating" centre console with limited flat surfaces but offered a large open compartment for storage.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system featured a 10.25-inch display with sophisticated graphics but was criticized for its awkward physical controls and lack of a voice recognition system. The system required memorization and focus, making it distracting to use while driving. Despite these drawbacks, Mazda Connect offered features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose premium audio system in upper trims. The test vehicle also included a front-facing camera and a surround-view camera system for easier parking.

The 2024 Kia EV9 took technology to the next level with a three-screen curved display, including a 12.3-inch driver information display, a 5-inch Climate Display, and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless charging pad, and a Meridian Premium Audio sound system in higher trims. The EV9's connectedness was a standout feature, with over-the-air updates and the Kia Connect store allowing owners to purchase additional features and upgrades. This approach offered flexibility and customization, allowing early adopters to benefit from future developments and used car buyers to access new features.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies under the i-Activsense banner. Standard features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The 2.5 Turbo Signature trim added a surround-view camera system, parking sensors, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick ranking from the IIHS. However, a potential issue with running lights being too bright and interior illumination working without headlights on was noted, which Mazda needed to address.

The 2024 Kia EV9 offered a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control with navigation-based capabilities, blind-spot collision avoidance, and forward collision avoidance. The Blind-spot View Monitor and reverse parking collision avoidance assist were available in higher trims. While the EV9 had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, it received the highest rating from Euro NCAP, indicating strong safety performance.