2024 Kia Telluride vs 2023 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, was a standout in the compact crossover SUV segment. It exuded a sense of luxury with its stylish design and high-quality materials, making it feel more like a premium vehicle than a mass-market option. The available turbocharged engine provided impressive power, and the model boasted a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. Mazda's decision to transition the CX-5 to the CX-50 was a strategic move, allowing for a smoother transition for loyal customers. The CX-5 was available in eight versions, with prices ranging from $26,700 to $39,650, offering a range of options for different budgets.

In contrast, the 2024 Kia Telluride was offered in five core trim levels, with the option to add rugged X-Line and X-Pro packages for enhanced off-road capabilities. The Telluride's design updates maintained its attractive proportions, and the Wolf Gray paint with blacked-out X-Line styling added a modern touch. Inside, the Telluride featured a premium Nappa leather interior with a range of color options, complemented by simulated open-pore wood trim. The SX Prestige model, with its soft leather, dual-screen digital display, and thoughtful details, nearly met luxury SUV standards, despite some shiny plastic elements.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged version delivering up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The turbocharged engine provided a thrilling driving experience, with a firm and connected ride quality that emphasized Mazda's sporty brand identity. However, fuel economy was a concern, with the turbo model returning 21.4 mpg in testing, below the EPA's 24 mpg estimate.

The 2024 Kia Telluride was powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Telluride's towing capacity was 5,000 pounds, increased to 5,500 pounds with the X-Pro package. The SUV offered a smooth and refined driving experience, with responsive steering and brakes. However, fuel efficiency was a drawback, with the AWD model averaging 19 mpg in testing, below the EPA's 20 mpg estimate. The Telluride's ride quality was firm at lower speeds but compliant at higher velocities, providing a comfortable experience on winding roads.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 featured comfortable front seats with power adjustments and heated and ventilated options in higher trims. The Signature trim offered luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. However, the CX-5's interior space was limited, with cramped rear seats and a cargo area offering 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with them folded. The infotainment system lacked a conversational voice recognition system, and the control knob was awkward to use, detracting from the overall experience.

The 2024 Kia Telluride provided a spacious and comfortable interior, especially in higher trims like the SX Prestige X-Line. It featured premium Nappa leather, heated and ventilated seats, and a dual sunroof. The Telluride's controls were user-friendly, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system and physical buttons. The SUV offered generous storage space and a hands-free power liftgate. Cargo capacity was impressive, with 21 cubic feet behind the third row, 46 cubic feet with it folded, and a maximum of 87 cubic feet.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system featured a 10.25-inch display with sophisticated graphics but was frustrating to use due to its lack of a helpful voice recognition system and awkward physical controls. The system required memorization and focus, making it distracting. However, it offered features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose premium audio system. The test vehicle also included a front-facing camera and a surround-view camera system.

The 2024 Kia Telluride came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, requiring a cable for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An active Kia Connect subscription was needed for voice recognition. The Telluride offered four Kia Connect plans, with features like remote engine starting, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and over-the-air updates. The test vehicle included satellite radio, wireless smartphone charging, and a Harman Kardon audio system. Additional features included a digital key function, a camera-based rearview mirror, and a 10-inch head-up display.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety with its i-Activsense suite of driver assistance features, offering most as standard equipment. Exclusive features for the 2.5 Turbo Signature included a surround-view camera system and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. However, it lacked a warning for driving without headlights at night, a potential safety concern.

The 2024 Kia Telluride impressed with its standard Kia Drive Wise collection of driver assistance features, including collision avoidance and Highway Driving Assist. Safety upgrades varied by trim, with features like front parking sensors and a Blind-Spot View Monitor. The Telluride received a five-star overall crash test rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. However, the lane-keeping system was intrusive, and Highway Driving Assist 2.0 had limitations in certain conditions.