2022 Volvo XC90 vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from the brand's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while stepping into the luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by China's Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company developed new platforms, leading to the current XC90, which launched as a 2016 model. The XC90's design was sleek and athletic, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches, complemented by the distinctive "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights. Inside, the XC90 boasted a "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury" aesthetic, featuring natural wood and metal trim, with options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5, while not drastically different in appearance from its predecessors, introduced new LED headlights and taillights, bumpers, grille, and rear liftgate. The Signature trim featured body-colour lower exterior trim, enhancing Mazda's premium brand aspirations. Inside, the CX-5 retained its luxurious feel with Nappa leather upholstery and real wood trim. The seats were redesigned for improved comfort, and the driving position was sportier. The CX-5 offered a range of trims, with the Sport Design and Signature trims providing turbocharged engine options for those seeking more power.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp and 295 lb-ft, and the Recharge plug-in hybrid combining gasoline and electric power for a total of 455 hp and 523 lb-ft. All models featured all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Fuel efficiency varied, with the T5 achieving 10.1 L/100 km combined, the T6 at 10.8 L/100 km, and the Recharge offering 8.8 L/100 km in hybrid mode. The XC90's driving experience was smooth and agile, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, especially in the Recharge model.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 came with a standard Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre engine producing 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Fuel consumption was rated at 9.3 L/100 km combined. The turbocharged variant offered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft on premium gas, with a combined fuel consumption of 9.8 L/100 km. The CX-5 featured Mazda Intelligent Drive Select with Normal, Sport, and Off-Road modes, enhancing its driving dynamics. The 2022 model improved on previous versions with reduced noise, vibration, and harshness, offering a sporty and composed ride.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was available in six- or seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row. Cargo capacity was 357 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,855 litres with all seats folded. The XC90 could tow up to 2,250 kilograms. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample storage and a panoramic moonroof. The climate control system performed well even in extreme conditions, and the vehicle was equipped with heated seats and a heated steering wheel.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints about its ride and seating with new, supportive seats and a sportier driving position. The back seat remained snug, but heated cushions and air vents improved comfort. The control layout was less intuitive due to the non-touchscreen infotainment system. Cargo space was 871 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,680 litres with the seats folded. Storage was adequate, with wireless charging and door bins available.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though it was occasionally slow to respond. The Advanced package included a head-up display, 360-degree camera, and advanced air cleaner. Keyless entry and a Harman-Kardon audio system were standard on higher trims.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect system with a 10.25-inch display, operated via centre console controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with a two-year trial of Mazda Connected Services. The GT and higher trims featured a 10-speaker Bose audio system. The lack of a touchscreen and natural voice recognition was a drawback, but users could adapt to the control system over time.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist. It received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, underscoring its commitment to safety.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 also offered a robust safety package with i-Activsense, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added features like a surround-view camera and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, making it a strong contender in safety.