Porsche Macan vs Mazda CX-50

The 2022 Porsche Macan retained much of its original design from its 2015 debut, despite undergoing several updates over the years. The latest iteration featured a refreshed exterior with larger standard wheels and a redesigned centre console that introduced haptic touch controls, enhancing both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the interior. The Macan lineup in Canada included four models: the base Macan, the new Macan T, the Macan S, and the Macan GTS, with the latter two benefiting from high-output powertrains. Our test vehicle, a Macan S, showcased a sophisticated Volcano Gray exterior with 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels, embodying Porsche's tradition of combining elegance with performance.

Inside, the Macan drew inspiration from other Porsche models, featuring a left-side ignition switch, a central tachometer, and a sleek dashboard design. The interior, adorned with red leather and metallic accents, exuded a sporty yet upscale vibe. Despite its compact SUV status, the Macan offered a comfortable driving experience, with supportive seats and a well-organized cabin layout. However, the rear seats were somewhat cramped, and the new centre console, while stylish, required drivers to divert their attention from the road to operate the touch-sensitive controls.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50, on the other hand, presented a blend of elegance and ruggedness in its design. With a blunt nose, long hood, and rakish windshield, it maintained Mazda's signature seductiveness while introducing rugged elements like fender swells and skid plates. The CX-50's exterior design was further enhanced by a black grille, mirror caps, and available 20-inch alloy wheels. The introduction of the CX-50 Meridian Edition added exclusive features like all-terrain tires and a roof-mounted load platform, catering to adventure enthusiasts.

Inside, the CX-50 offered a driver-focused design with quality materials and a mix of analog and digital gauges. The interior was spacious, with comfortable seating for both front and rear passengers. The test vehicle featured black leather with caramel-coloured stitching, adding a touch of sophistication. While storage space was adequate, some missed opportunities for additional storage were noted. The cargo area provided ample space, with a long load floor and side bins for securing items. Overall, the CX-50 delivered a stylish and functional interior, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile compact crossover.

The 2022 Porsche Macan offered a range of powertrains, with the base Macan and Macan T featuring a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 261 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The Macan GTS inherited a 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 from the previous Macan Turbo, delivering 434 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. Our Macan S test vehicle was equipped with a twin-turbo 2.9-litre V6, generating 375 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package and launch control. All Macans came with a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission and a fully variable AWD system, enhancing their performance capabilities.

The Macan S offered a thrilling driving experience, with precise steering and a responsive suspension system. The optional Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus and Porsche Surface Coated Brakes further enhanced its handling and braking performance. Despite its sporty nature, the Macan S provided a comfortable ride, with the ability to smooth out road imperfections. Fuel consumption was rated at 13.0 L/100 km, close to the official rating of 12.2 L/100 km.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-50 offered two engine options. The base engine was a 2.5-litre four-cylinder producing 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The GT Turbo trim featured a turbocharged version of the same engine, delivering between 227 hp and 256 hp, depending on the fuel used. Torque ranged from 310 lb-ft to 320 lb-ft. The CX-50's fuel economy was rated at 10.4 L/100 km city, 8.1 highway, and 9.4 combined, with our test averaging 10.1 L/100 km.

The CX-50 Turbo provided smooth acceleration and a broad power curve, with minimal turbo lag. Mazda's Mi-Drive system offered different driving modes, though the differences were subtle. The CX-50's ride quality was slightly firmer than the CX-5, and some torque steer was noted during acceleration. Despite its SUV status, the CX-50 felt more like a sporty wagon, with a higher ride height and ground clearance. It handled off-road situations well, though it lacked a downhill assist control system. The CX-50's towing capacity was impressive, handling a 3,500-pound load with ease on flat highways.

The 2022 Porsche Macan offered a comfortable driving experience, with optional 14-way power-adjustable front seats providing heating and ventilation. However, the rear seats were cramped, especially for taller passengers. The redesigned centre console featured haptic touch controls, though it required drivers to look away from the road to operate. Cargo space measured 488 litres behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,503 litres with the seats folded down.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 provided a well-equipped interior, with power-adjustable heated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. The ventilated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control added to the comfort. The back seat was spacious, with rear air vents and charging ports. Storage space was adequate, though some areas could have been better utilized. The cargo area offered 889 litres of space, expandable to 1,595 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Porsche Macan featured a 10.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM, and a navigation system. The system was intuitive, though the voice recognition was less effective compared to competitors. The Macan lacked Android Auto compatibility, but stereo volume and climate controls were separate from the touchscreen.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 came with a Mazda Connect infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system traditionally lacked touchscreen control, but the CX-50 introduced touchscreen functionality for smartphone integration. The available Bose 12-speaker sound system provided a satisfying audio experience. The Active Driving Display projected important information within the driver's line of sight, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2022 Porsche Macan included standard lane-departure warning and a reversing camera. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. The Macan's safety technologies performed as expected, though it lacked advanced driving assistance features. Parking assistance options were available, including a surround-view camera and Park Assist system.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 was rated as a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, with some limitations in headlight configurations and night-time pedestrian collision avoidance. It offered a comprehensive package of standard driving assistance systems, including active blind-spot monitoring and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-50's systems generally worked well, though the adaptive cruise control occasionally failed to recognize slower vehicles cutting in.