Mazda MAZDA6 vs Mazda CX-5

The Mazda6 hasn’t been completely redesigned since 2014, making it one of the older members of the midsize car class (only the Volkswagen Passat has more wrinkles). And while this great-looking car is not a top-seller in its segment, making it a relative rarity on the road, it’s also been around long enough that what once was a daringly seductive design is now as familiar as favourite comfort food.

But don’t let this familiarity make you indifferent to the Mazda6’s long list of charms. Inside and out, this Mazda remains one of the more stylish and high-quality choices in a family-sized four-door, and when you drive it you can’t help but have a great time behind its perfectly shaped steering wheel. The 2021 Mazda Mazda6 might be older than other choices in its class, but it’s still better than most of its competitors. Especially in the athletics department.

It’s easy for a luxury brand to lose stature and cachet, but it’s hard for a mainstream brand to gain it. Nevertheless, Mazda is giving it the good old college try, having discussed its plan to become a premium brand for more than half a decade.

Unlike some automakers that rely solely on marketing to support their premium brand positioning, Mazda heavily invests in everything from design and engineering to dealership facilities, all to ensure there is substance behind its claim. Now, numerous updates to its most popular model elevate the 2022 Mazda CX-5 solidly into premium territory.

Don’t believe us? Drive one of the turbocharged versions of the 2022 CX-5 back to back with a similarly priced Audi Q3, Buick Envision, BMW X1, GMC Terrain, or Mercedes-Benz GLA, and you’ll see what we mean.