2023 Toyota Sienna vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Toyota Sienna aimed to redefine the minivan aesthetic, moving away from the traditional sliding doors and slab-sided designs that many associated with family trips of the past. Toyota's efforts were evident in the Sienna's front-end styling, which drew inspiration from Japanese bullet trains, and the availability of larger wheels on certain trims. The Sienna offered a variety of trim levels, including the base LE, XLE, sporty XSE, and the luxurious Limited, with a special 25th Anniversary Edition also available. Inside, the Sienna impressed with its high-quality materials, such as brown leather upholstery and wood-grain accents, particularly in the Platinum trim. The minivan accommodated seven or eight passengers, with the eight-seater option supporting three-across car seats in the middle row, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its appealing design from the second-generation model introduced in 2017, with minor updates for the new model year. The CX-5's styling remained modern and attractive, with the Suna trim featuring exclusive Zircon Sand paint and Terracotta leather seats. Mazda improved the fuel economy of the base engine and added wireless charging and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to several trims. The CX-5 lineup included models with a base engine and Turbo variants, with the latter offering up to 256 horsepower on premium gas. The CX-5's interior materials, seating, and technology had been upgraded over the years, resulting in an upscale crossover SUV at a competitive price point.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna featured a hybrid powertrain with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with two front-mounted electric motors, and an additional rear-mounted motor for AWD models, delivering a combined 245 horsepower. While this setup was less powerful than some competitors, the Sienna's chassis and steering were commendable, offering nimble handling and a comfortable ride. The Sienna's light steering made city driving easy, and its various drive modes, including EV, Normal, Eco, and Sport, allowed for some customization, though Normal mode was recommended for the best balance.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Turbo, when fueled with premium gas, delivered 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, while regular gas provided 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft. The powertrain was more rewarding with a gradual acceleration approach, allowing the torque to build effectively. However, the CX-5's fuel efficiency was not its strong suit, with a combined rating of 9.8 L/100 km, though the base engine offered better efficiency. The CX-5's driving experience was enhanced by its re-tuned suspension, stiffened frame, and standard AWD, providing a smooth and responsive ride. The SUV's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology improved cornering, and the CX-5 handled well in various driving conditions, including off-road trails.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna excelled in interior storage, with numerous cubbies, shelves, and bins. It featured a spacious open cubby below the centre console and a long shelf across the dashboard, ideal for phones and equipped with a wireless charging pad in higher trims. The Sienna's dimensions, at 5,175 mm in length and a 3,061 mm wheelbase, provided ample space, with 949 litres of cargo room behind the third row and up to 2,860 litres with seats folded. The second-row captain's chairs were functional and comfortable, with extending ottomans and sliding capabilities for added legroom. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard, with ventilated front seats and heated second-row seats available on higher trims.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, with redesigned seats providing comfort and support. The interior, though smaller than some competitors, was comfortable for four adults, with supportive rear seats and thoughtful features like rear air conditioning vents and a centre armrest with cupholders. The CX-5's cabin quality rivaled luxury brands, with good storage space despite awkward cupholders. Cargo capacity was 871 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,680 litres with seats folded, which was less than some compact crossovers.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna featured an older infotainment system with core functions like SiriusXM, Bluetooth, and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though both required a wired connection. The system included physical buttons, which were practical but felt outdated. The 9-inch touchscreen was adequate, and the 12-speaker JBL audio system provided good sound quality, standard on higher trims.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 eschewed touchscreens for traditional controls, though it allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 10.25-inch display was navigated via a console knob, with quick access buttons for main functions. Mazda Connected Services offered remote features and emergency assistance. The 10-speaker Bose sound system, standard on the Suna trim, enhanced the premium feel of the interior.

The 2023 Toyota Sienna came equipped with a comprehensive suite of ADAS, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. It earned a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, underscoring its commitment to safety.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 also featured a robust set of ADAS, with adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered additional safety features like adaptive headlights and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, though it did not achieve a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS for 2024.