2020 Mazda CX-5 vs 2021 Honda CR-V

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 was a testament to Mazda's commitment to delivering a premium experience. It featured captivating style and compelling substance, with continual improvements that enhanced its appeal. This model year saw the addition of more standard equipment, refined instrumentation, and control markings that elevated the cabin's appearance. Modifications were made to reduce noise, vibration, and harshness, while the turbocharged engine received a torque boost. The all-wheel-drive versions gained a new off-road traction assistance feature, further enhancing its capabilities. The CX-5's design, rooted in the "Kodo" styling themes, remained distinctive and upscale, setting it apart from many competitors. Inside, especially in the Signature trim, the use of premium Nappa leather, real wood, and a black headliner contributed to a luxurious ambiance, although the Caturra Brown leather's lack of contrast with the black cabin was a minor drawback.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda CR-V's design was more about function than form, blending in with the competitive crossover market. Its styling was similar to many other compact crossovers, with few distinguishing features. The CR-V offered a range of colours, though many were shades of grey, black, or white, with limited availability of more vibrant options. Inside, the CR-V provided a modern look with angular seat designs and a choice of materials depending on the trim level. While it may not have been the most visually striking option, the CR-V's interior was practical and comfortable, with features like wood panels and chrome accents available in higher trims. Despite its understated appearance, the CR-V was a solid choice for those prioritizing functionality over aesthetics.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 offered a standard 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission featuring a Sport mode. Front-wheel drive was standard on the GX and GS trims, with all-wheel drive available, while the upper trims came with AWD as standard in Canada. The GT Turbo and Signature trims boasted a turbocharged engine, delivering 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft with regular fuel. Despite its 1,734-kilogram curb weight, the CX-5 Signature accelerated with authority, though the turbocharged engine was less fuel-efficient, averaging 10.6 L/100 km on the testing loop. The CX-5's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced its driving dynamics, but excessive body motions during spirited driving detracted from the overall experience.

The 2021 Honda CR-V, on the other hand, featured a 1.5-litre turbo four-cylinder engine with 190 horsepower across all trims. Its acceleration to 100 kilometres per hour was around 8 seconds, comparable to its competitors. The CR-V's continuously variable transmission (CVT) provided smooth and steady acceleration, though it lacked the engagement of conventional transmissions found in rivals like the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on the LX and standard on higher trims. The CR-V's suspension setup, consisting of a MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear, offered decent handling and ride quality, making it a reliable choice for everyday driving.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 aimed to compete with luxury SUVs, offering an upscale cabin with a generous list of standard features. However, its interior was more cramped compared to segment leaders like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The CX-5's interior exuded style and good taste, with heated front seats standard across all trims. Higher trims added features like power-adjustable seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The Signature trim elevated luxury with Nappa leather and genuine wood trim. Despite its smaller size, the CX-5's front seats were comfortable, though rear legroom was limited. Cargo space measured 875 litres behind the rear seat, expanding to 1,687 litres with the seats folded.

The 2021 Honda CR-V prioritized functionality, offering ample interior space for five passengers and their gear. It boasted over 100 litres more interior volume than the Toyota RAV4, with a total cargo volume of 1,065 litres with the rear seats folded. Access to the cargo area varied by trim, with options for a power tailgate and hands-free operation. Roof rails were standard on most trims, enhancing its practicality for carrying additional cargo. The CR-V's interior was designed for comfort and convenience, making it a versatile choice for families and adventurers alike.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 featured a Mazda Connect infotainment system, drawing inspiration from luxury brands like Audi and BMW. The system included a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, HD Radio, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Higher trims added features like SiriusXM satellite radio, a Bose premium sound system, and a surround-view camera system. However, the system's interface could be frustrating, requiring acclimation and setup to reduce frustration. The voice-recognition technology was limited, making it less user-friendly.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda CR-V offered a 7-inch high-definition touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto as standard. Lower trims had varying audio setups, while the Touring trim featured a 300-watt system with a subwoofer. The CR-V EX-L and higher trims included Sirius XM and HD radio, with satellite navigation available on the Touring and Black Edition trims. Charging ports were abundant, with USB and 12-volt outlets throughout the cabin, and the Touring trim introduced a wireless phone charger.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Its standard ADAS package included smart city brake support, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added features like adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. The CX-5's structural engineering and crash-test performance contributed to its high safety ratings.

The 2021 Honda CR-V also prioritized safety, earning a five-star NHTSA overall crash test rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. However, it fell short of the Top Safety Pick+ rating due to lower scores in headlight evaluation and the updated side crash test. The CR-V's Honda Sensing system made advanced safety features standard across all trims, including forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The only feature not standard on the base LX trim was blind spot monitoring, which became standard on higher trims.