2023 Mazda CX-5 vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2022 Acura MDX was a standout in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a design that appeared compact from the outside but was surprisingly spacious inside. Built on a new dedicated platform, the MDX featured a longer wheelbase, wider body, and an increased dash-to-axle distance, enhancing its elegant appearance. The exterior design was modern and sporty, highlighted by standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels. Inside, the MDX boasted a refined cabin with authentic materials like natural wood and real leather, complemented by high-quality plastics. The dashboard was designed to emphasize cabin width, and the unique gear selection system added a touch of sophistication. The MDX's interior was both comfortable and functional, with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen strategically placed for safety.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-5 maintained its reputation as a stylish and high-quality compact crossover SUV, despite its age. The CX-5 exuded a sense of luxury, with high-quality materials and a refined design. The available turbocharged engine provided impressive power, and the vehicle earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. However, the CX-5's small back seat, cramped cargo area, and frustrating infotainment system were notable drawbacks. Mazda's decision to transition to the CX-50 nameplate was a strategic move, but the CX-5 remained a strong contender in its segment, offering a blend of quality, refinement, and sophistication across its various trims.

The 2022 Acura MDX was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It featured a new 10-speed automatic transmission and Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which enhanced cornering feel and control. The MDX's suspension was upgraded with a double-wishbone setup in the front and revised rear multi-link suspension, improving ride quality and handling. The vehicle's overall stiffness and rigidity were significantly improved, providing a solid ride feel. The MDX offered five drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle's performance to their preferences.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a standard 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged version delivering up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. The turbo engine's power increase, along with structural and suspension modifications, made the CX-5 feel more solid and rewarding to drive. The vehicle's AWD system and six-speed automatic transmission contributed to its engaging driving experience. The CX-5 excelled on twisting roads, offering a firm and communicative ride quality, though it could be choppy on rough surfaces. The turbocharged engine provided a satisfying rush of acceleration, making the CX-5 a delight to drive.

The 2022 Acura MDX excelled as a versatile three-row SUV, offering comfortable seating for the first two rows and a flexible second row with a removable centre section. The third row was best suited for smaller passengers, but the MDX's seating capacity and USB connections in all rows were appreciated. The vehicle offered between 461 and 512 litres of luggage space behind the third row, with additional underfloor storage. Folding down the seats expanded the cargo capacity significantly. The MDX's power tailgate featured convenient functions like "Walk Away Close" and Hands-Free Access, enhancing its utility.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, while stylish and well-appointed, fell short in terms of interior space and technology. The front seats were improved for comfort, and higher trims offered luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. However, the CX-5's infotainment system was frustrating to use, lacking a conversational voice recognition system. The vehicle's storage space, rear-seat head and legroom, and cargo capacity were limited compared to competitors. The CX-5 provided 871 litres of cargo space behind the rear seat, expanding to 1,680 litres with the seats folded down, but it lagged behind many rivals in this regard.

The 2022 Acura MDX was packed with advanced technology, including the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification. The vehicle featured a 12.3-inch infotainment system, Amazon Alexa integration, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a head-up display on the Platinum Elite trim. The MDX's CabinTalk feature acted as an interior public address system, and a WiFi hotspot was standard. The vehicle's software could be updated over the air, ensuring it stayed current with the latest features.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system, while visually appealing, was a source of frustration due to its awkward physical controls and lack of a helpful voice recognition system. The system required memorization and focus, making it distracting to use while driving. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-5 offered features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a three-year trial of Mazda Connected Services. Upper trims included a 10-speaker Bose audio system and a surround-view camera system, enhancing the vehicle's technology offerings.

The 2022 Acura MDX earned a "Top Safety Pick +" rating from the IIHS, with top marks in every category. The vehicle featured a higher percentage of high-strength steel and an advanced safety structure for collision protection. The front end was redesigned for pedestrian safety, and a low-speed braking control system enhanced safety in city driving. The AcuraWatch suite of safety features was standard, including collision mitigation emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with the i-Activsense suite of driver assistance technologies. Most features were standard, with additional features exclusive to the 2.5 Turbo Signature trim. The CX-5's safety tech operated smoothly and accurately, with features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The vehicle earned five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick ranking from the IIHS. However, the CX-5 needed a warning system for driving without headlights at night, as its running lights could be misleading.