2022 Lexus NX vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Lexus NX underwent a significant redesign, offering four model series: NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+. The NX 350, with its turbocharged engine, was the focus of many reviews. The NX's design was unmistakably Lexus, featuring a prominent spindle grille and refined styling details reminiscent of the Lexus IS sports sedan. The SUV was longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, providing more passenger and cargo space. Interior options included NuLuxe simulated leather or real leather with open-pore wood trim, and a panoramic moonroof was available for the first time. The F Sport variant stood out with unique exterior and interior features, including sport-bolstered seats and a distinctive steering wheel. The interior design aimed for minimalism, but some found the integration of many functions into the 14-inch touchscreen challenging. Despite some criticisms, the NX maintained high-quality levels, though certain elements like the turn signal felt less premium.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 featured subtle exterior updates, including new LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, and a redesigned grille. The top Signature trim received body-colour lower exterior trim, enhancing its premium appeal. Inside, the CX-5 retained its luxurious feel, especially in the Signature trim with Nappa leather and real wood trim. The seats were new for 2022, offering improved comfort. The CX-5's pricing ranged from $30,500 to $43,650, with the turbocharged engine available on higher trims. The test drive of the Sport Design grade with the turbo engine highlighted its performance capabilities. Overall, the CX-5's design changes were subtle but contributed to its upscale image, aligning with Mazda's goal of becoming a premium brand.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions: the NX 350h hybrid with 239 horsepower and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid with 302 horsepower. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The NX 350 F Sport added driving modes and an adaptive variable sports suspension. The NX 350's performance was smooth and responsive, with a 0-60 mph time of 6.6 seconds. Fuel consumption was estimated at 9.5 L/100 km in combined driving. The NX's handling was impressive, though the turbo engine lacked the refinement of some German rivals. The NX was not designed for off-road use, with limited ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5's base engine was a 2.5-litre four-cylinder with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The turbocharged engine offered 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas. Fuel consumption for the turbo engine was estimated at 9.8 L/100 km, though testing showed 11.1 L/100 km. The CX-5 featured Mazda Intelligent Drive Select with Normal, Sport, and Off-Road modes. The 2022 model improved driving dynamics, offering a quieter and smoother ride with reduced body roll. The CX-5's handling was sporty and composed, aligning with Mazda's premium brand aspirations.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered more interior space, though the driver’s seat felt cozy due to the new dashboard design. The NX was comfortable, with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel standard in Canada. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed roomy accommodations with rear air conditioning vents and USB ports. The NX's cargo space increased by 14%, offering 643 litres behind the back seat and 1,328 litres with the seats folded. Thematic Ambient Illumination and a panoramic sunroof added to the interior's appeal.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints about its ride and front seats. The new seats offered better support and a sportier driving position. Most trims included a height-adjustable front passenger seat, dual-zone climate control, and heated and ventilated front seats. The back seat remained snug but offered heated cushions and air vents. The control layout was a source of frustration, lacking a touchscreen and natural voice recognition. Storage space was adequate, with wireless charging and door bins. Cargo space was 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with the seats folded, competitive with luxury SUVs but less so with mainstream crossovers.

The 2022 Lexus NX featured the new Lexus Interface infotainment system with a 9.8-inch or optional 14-inch touchscreen. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and Voice Assistant technology. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system optional. The system supported cloud-based services and over-the-air updates. The Voice Assistant responded to natural commands, and a three-year trial of Drive Connect was included. Additional features included a digital mirror, head-up display, and digital key capability. The 14-inch screen collected fingerprints and reflections, and there was no tuning knob.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained the Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display, operated via centre console controls. The system lacked a touchscreen and natural voice recognition, requiring smartphone integration for intuitive use. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with a two-year trial of Mazda Connected Services. A 10-speaker Bose sound system was optional on GT and standard on higher trims. The system was adequate, with SiriusXM satellite radio available.

The 2022 Lexus NX included the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring lane keep assist, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. New features included Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, and Curve Speed Management. The Emergency Driving Stop System brought the NX to a stop if the driver was unresponsive. The NX also had blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Assist. Additional features were available in packages, including adaptive lighting and semi-autonomous parking assist.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 featured the i-Activsense package with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera, and Traffic Jam Assist. The system was mostly agreeable, though there was a delay in recognizing cars in traffic. The head-up display showed blind-spot warnings. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, a distinction few rivals matched.