2021 Volvo XC90 vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy, maintaining its traditional styling while introducing a more characterful appearance. The XC90 retained its boxy profile and blunt front end, but with softer lines, increased chrome accents, and distinctive LED headlights featuring "Thor’s Hammer" daytime running lights. The Inscription trim, with its optional 21-inch alloy wheels, was the most visually striking, while the R-Design and Momentum trims offered sportier and more understated looks, respectively. Inside, the XC90 embraced Swedish minimalism with high-quality materials, including matte-finish wood trim and optional wool upholstery, creating a refined and understated cabin environment.

In contrast, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 underwent subtle exterior updates, including new LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, and a redesigned grille. The Signature trim featured body-colour lower exterior trim, enhancing Mazda's premium brand aspirations. The interior remained largely unchanged, with the Signature trim offering luxurious Nappa leather upholstery and real wood trim. The new seats provided improved comfort and support, addressing previous complaints. The CX-5's driving position was sportier, and the cabin featured dual-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel, ensuring comfort in various weather conditions.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all centred around a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 model delivered 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque with a turbocharged engine. The T6 variant added a supercharger, boosting output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid, known as Recharge, combined the T6 engine with electric motors, achieving a total of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. Despite its power, the XC90's small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' larger engines. The XC90 excelled in ride quality, thanks to an optional air-suspension system, and offered a maximum towing capacity of 2,250 kilograms.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 featured a Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. The revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive contributed to responsive performance. For those seeking more power, the turbocharged engine option delivered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas. The CX-5's driving dynamics improved with increased structural rigidity and reworked suspension tuning, providing a quieter and smoother ride. The Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) offered Normal, Sport, and Off-Road settings, enhancing the driving experience. The CX-5's handling was praised for its sure-footed grip and reduced body motions, making it a compelling alternative to entry-level luxury SUVs.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered six-seat or seven-seat configurations, with average headroom and legroom across all three rows. The third row was tight for adults, and the seats lacked support. The optional power sunroof and upright roof profile created a spacious feel. The Inscription trim featured 10-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats with massage, but the steering wheel was not power-adjustable. Cargo space was limited, with 317 litres behind the third row, 965 litres with the rear seats folded, and 1,815 litres with the second and third rows folded. A hands-free power tailgate was available.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints with new, supportive seats and a sportier driving position. The height-adjustable front passenger seat was a notable addition. The back seat remained snug, but heated outboard cushions and air conditioning vents improved passenger comfort. The control layout was challenging due to the non-touchscreen Mazda Connect infotainment system. Storage space was limited, with a small centre armrest bin and wireless smartphone charging. Cargo space was 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with the back seat folded, comparing favourably to entry-level luxury SUVs.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The system was intuitive, with a portrait-oriented touchscreen that was easy to use. However, the text and typeface made reading menus difficult while driving. The wireless charging pad was too small for most phones, and only second-row USB-C ports were available.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained the Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display and Bluetooth. The non-touchscreen interface required using centre console and steering wheel controls. While acclimating to the system was possible, the lack of natural voice recognition was a drawback. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a two-year trial of Mazda Connected Services. The GT and higher trims featured a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system, which performed adequately.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received the highest "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS for non-hybrid models, with top "Good" scores in crash tests and "Superior" front-crash prevention ratings. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating. The XC90 offered extensive standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 boasted a comprehensive i-Activsense safety package, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera system, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, matching few rivals in safety credentials.