2022 Volvo XC40 vs 2021 Mazda CX-5

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 was a departure from the trend of sharply creased designs, opting instead for a sleek and smooth aesthetic that appeared dynamic even when stationary. While it didn't boast the aggressive styling of some competitors, it took Mazda's familiar design language in a more refined direction. The exterior differences among the CX-5's trim levels were subtle, with the base GX featuring LED headlights, 17-inch wheels, and a rear roof spoiler. Higher trims like the GS and GT added features such as leatherette seats, a power liftgate, and larger wheels, culminating in the Signature model, which offered premium touches like Nappa leather and genuine wood trim.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC40 maintained a more traditional design approach, closely resembling its gasoline-powered siblings. The XC40 Recharge featured a solid panel in place of a traditional grille, subtly indicating its electric nature. The SUV's exterior was marked by distinctive elements like the Thor’s Hammer daytime running lights and a floating roof illusion created by thin pillars. Inside, the XC40 embraced Scandinavian design, offering an airy cabin with harmonious lines and premium materials. The XC40 Recharge was a testament to Volvo's commitment to luxury, with a well-executed fit and finish that elevated its status in the compact SUV segment.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options, both delivering commendable performance. The base engine was a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available. The GT and Signature trims featured a more powerful 250-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, delivering 320 lb-ft of torque. The turbo engine, combined with the CX-5's engaging driving dynamics, provided a spirited driving experience, especially in Sport mode. However, the CX-5's fuel efficiency was average, with the turbocharged AWD model consuming 10.8 L/100 km in the city and 8.7 on the highway.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge, on the other hand, was powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour battery pack and dual electric motors, producing a combined 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque. This setup enabled the XC40 Recharge to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. The Recharge featured regenerative braking and a one-pedal driving mode, enhancing its efficiency and driving experience. With a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge and a fast-charging capability, the XC40 Recharge was a strong contender in the electric SUV market. The gasoline-powered XC40 models, T4 and T5, offered respectable performance with 0-100 km/h times of 8.5 and 6.4 seconds, respectively.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 was designed with family functionality in mind, offering a comfortable seating position and straightforward climate controls. However, rear legroom was somewhat limited, and the cargo space was below average for the segment, with 875 litres behind the second row and 1,687 litres with the seats folded. The CX-5's interior featured a larger shifter and infotainment controls that were not ideally positioned for shorter drivers. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-5 provided a stylish and comfortable environment for its occupants.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge excelled in form and function, offering clever storage solutions and a comfortable cabin. The absence of a gasoline engine allowed for a front trunk, providing additional storage space. Inside, the XC40 featured ample cubbies and USB ports, catering to modern needs. The front seats were comfortable, while the rear seats were suitable for two passengers. The XC40 Recharge offered 1,628 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and a towing capacity of 907 kilograms, making it a practical choice for those seeking versatility.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came standard with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, but its operating system was not as user-friendly as expected. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, the infotainment controls were not ideally positioned, requiring some adjustment for ease of use. The lack of intuitive tuning knobs was a drawback, though the steering wheel controls provided some relief.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was equipped with a host of advanced technologies, including Pilot Assist, a heat pump for climate control, and a 9.3-inch touchscreen with Android Automotive OS. The system integrated Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play store, allowing seamless connectivity. Over-the-air updates ensured the system remained current, though the range display, which showed a percentage rather than kilometres, could induce range anxiety. Despite this, the XC40 Recharge's tech offerings were comprehensive and well-executed.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning. Optional features like a head-up display and surround-view camera system enhanced its safety credentials. The CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA, underscoring its commitment to safety.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge also received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, with a robust list of standard safety features such as collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and lane keep assist. The XC40 Recharge's safety systems were further enhanced by a new sensor platform, integrating cameras, radar, and ultrasonic sensors. Volvo's Connected Safety system added an extra layer of protection by sharing road condition data with other connected vehicles.