Mazda CX-5 v Toyota Rav4

Published: Feb 1, 2022 6:23 AM

It is no secret that SUVs dominate the car market, not just in Australia but also globally. The sheer number of models available, their undeniable practicality, and numerous usable features make the SUVs the most popular segment, which appeals to many customers. But, out of dozens of available models, from all manufacturers, Mazda CX-5 and Toyota Rav4 will always have a special place amongst the buyers. Those two models are the best-selling SUVs on the Australian market, with almost identical sale figures in 2021. Interestingly, although pretty much evenly matched, they offer a significantly different take on the SUV concept, which makes this head to head comparison very interesting. Today, we will tell you all you need to know about these two popular cars and why one or the other should be your next purchase.

2022 Mazda CX-5

Initially introduced in 2012, this is the second generation CX-5 model, which debuted in 2017. Right from the start, the CX-5 has become one of the favourites on the market, primarily due to its unique design, similar to other Mazda models, comfortable interior and almost sporty driving dynamics. Mazda wanted to eliminate that typical, soft SUV driving feel and instead gave CX-5 a little firmer suspension and more precise steering, which customers obviously like. Even though the CX-5 is an older model, its appeal is still very strong and can easily battle the newcomers in the mid-size SUV segment.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offers customers several trim packages, two drive train options, two transmissions and three engines, including turbocharged petrol and diesel units. The baseline grade is called Maxx, and it is only available with front-wheel-drive, 6-speed manual transmission (automatics are standard on most models) and a 2.0-litre petrol engine with 115 kW and 200 Nm of torque. Next in line is a 2.5-litre petrol four-cylinder with or without the turbocharger, which delivers 140 or 170 kW and up to 420 Nm, resulting in a pretty convincing performance. For those who are looking for more frugal power train options, there is also a 2.2-litre diesel unit with 140 kW and 450 Nm. However, the power or performance of diesel SUVs is not impressive as much as their fuel economy, and the 2.2-litre diesel Mazda CX-5 has an average consumption of just 5.2 litres of fuel per 100 km. Mazda was always proud of its Sky Active engine technology and invested in the development of petrol and diesel engines, so there is no hybrid or battery-powered version of this model. At least, not yet.

The interior of the Mazda CX-5 is comfortable and well-laid out with an elegant dashboard and enough room for five passengers. The sporty layout adds to the overall feel with quality materials and good ergonomics. You can only tell that this is an older model by looking at the dials, which are not fully digital and by small, 7.0-inch infotainment screen, which is not touch-sensitive. However, despite that, this is a great place to spend your time. The luggage compartment is reasonably big with 506 litres of usable space and up to massive 1,340 litres with rear seats folded, which is more than enough for all family needs.

Where Mazda really excels is in standard features, and apart from numerous available colours, chrome details or 119-inch wheels, every single CX-5 comes with a pretty compelling safety pack. The systems like High Beam Control (HBC), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC), Tyre Pressure Monitor (TPMS) and Smart City Brake Support (SCBS) are standard. Still, you can also get Blind Sport Monitoring and 360 camera and numerous other features. All of the above makes CX-5 a great deal, and this SUV starts at $31,390 for base CX-5 Maxx with front-wheel-drive, and it can go up to $52,580 for CX-5 Akera with AWD and leather interior.

2022 Toyota Rav4

The Toyota Rav4 is one of the most recognizable models of the segment. The first one was introduced back in the mid-90s, and the current fifth generation debuted in 2018. For over 25 years, Rav4 has been one of Toyota’s best-selling models and standard of the segment with its blend of practicality, useful features, modern design and dependable mechanics. The Rav4 is designed for a spacious family SUV and has a bit of off-road flavour when you opt for AWD. Critics call its design a little too angular and over-aggressive but judging by sales numbers, not just in Australia but worldwide, buyers love this look.

The 2022 Toyota Rav4 is available in four trim levels (GL, GLX, Cruiser and Edge) with three engines two transmissions. Like most of its competitors, Rav4 is delivered as a front-wheel drive in standard form and with AWD as an option. The base model, called Rav4 GL, has a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with 127 kW and 203 Nm of torque mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. As expected, Toyota is offering Rav4 with its famous hybrid engine option, and for environmentally concerned buyers, the 2.5-litre hybrid drive train is available on all trim levels. This engine has 163 kW and 221 Nm (combined output) and an almost incredible fuel economy of 4.7 litres of petrol per 100 km. The top engine option is a 2.5-litre four-cylinder which is standard on the top-grade Edge model. This unit delivers 152 kW and 243 Nm of torque and provides the driver with a solid performance by the standards of the class. Interestingly, Toyota decided to avoid diesel engines for Rav4 and instead concentrate on hybrid versions, which allegedly return the same fuel economy but produce less C02. The only mechanical downside is the fact that Toyota stubbornly sticks to CVT-type automatic transmissions for most models (standard on hybrids) and only offers a modern 8-speed gearbox on the most expensive Edge model.

When you sit behind the wheel of Rav4, you will notice the modern layout with a large infotainment screen on the top of the dash. The lower grade models have rather small 4.2-inch, and higher trim levels have a larger 7-inch display that dominates the look and large gauges in front of the driver. Regardless of the trim level and size of the display, you will have Android Auto and Apple Car Play features. The material quality is good, and the overall design follows the angular exterior cues. Toyota’s designers knew that buyers in this segment value the amount of usable space and practicality. Due to clever design work, the new Rav4 has substantial 580 litres of boot space and up to 1,400 litres when you fold the rear seats down.

The base price of the 2022 Toyota Rav4 starts at $34,000 for FWD, 2.0-liter GL model and goes up to $52,400 for a fully loaded Edge model with all-wheel-drive and Hybrid engine. A good thing to know is that every Rav4 comes with a Toyota Safety Sense system which incorporates all safety features with reversing camera and a blind-spot monitor. The automatic transmission models have a Lane Trace Assist system as standard, and Active Cruise Control is available on higher-grade models. Knowing that all models are equipped with seven airbags and a host of other safety features, it is no surprise that Rav4 is a favourite amongst the family buyers.

The Conclusion

Despite being fierce competitors in a densely populated market segment, Mazda CX-5 and Toyota Rav4 have different personalities, which helps them attract different types of buyers. The Mazda is obviously an older design, lacking some of the brand new features and tech, but it is far from obsolete. Its powerful engines, dynamic handling, and feel represent the driver’s choice and family SUV for people who love driving. Its package is still fresh and appealing, even though its infotainment system is far beyond Toyota’s. With lover price and performance image, it is still an excellent choice for people who buy cars for their driving characteristics, not for options list.

On the other hand, Toyota Rav4 comes with modern tech, more room, more features, more off-road usability and a hybrid drive train that promises diesel-like fuel economy. With its reputation of quality and striking design, Rav4 is designed for a more rational buyer who is looking to get the most for his money in terms of space, features and safety. The Rav4 hasn’t got the same driving characteristics or feel, nor it is going for it. Once again, Toyota made a well-engineered family SUV with modern technology and a comfortable interior but not much excitement or performance. All of that means that there is no clear winner of this comparison. If you are going for emotions, Mazda is better, but if you are looking for a practical family ride, Rav4 is a better choice.

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Feb 1, 2022 6:23 AM

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