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The 2021 and 2022 Mazda CX-5 are fairly similar, although the 2021 model gets slightly higher ratings for its performance and all-around value. The 2022 model, however, improves on the engine options offered by the 2021 version.

With so many compact crossovers to choose from, the Mazda CX-5 drives right by the competition in terms of style, engine performance, and price. The 2021 and 2022 models are highly rated by critics and drivers alike, but which one is the better option for you?

Let’s break down the main areas of contention to help you decide between these two impressive crossovers.

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2021 Mazda CX-5 vs. 2022 Mazda CX-5: what’s the difference?

The Mazda CX-5 is much more than your average compact crossover. Sitting in the sweet spot between the

Honda CR-V

’s price point and the

Porsche Macan

’s luxury features, the Mazda CX-5 makes an everyday drive feel like a refined experience.

No wonder Car and Driver awarded both the 2021 and 2022 models an Editors’ Choice accolade!

However, the 2021 CX-5 fared better in overall ratings, earning a 10/10 and a 10 Best award from Car and Driver. The upgraded 10.3-inch screen with Mazda Connect, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay was an impressive addition to this model year. Add on the refined body style, ergonomic seating, and engaging driving dynamics, and you’ve got a recipe for a fun and comfortable ride.

The 2022 CX-5, on the other hand, received a 9.5/10 from Car and Driver, the lower score resulting from a lack of cargo space and underwhelming towing capacity for its segment. The differences from the 2021 model are slight: the 2022 version’s exterior was smoothed out with a more distinctive grille and tweaked LED headlights. Slight adjustments were made to the seating, suspension, and transmission, and all-wheel drive (AWD) was added as standard.

Let’s take a look at what else sets these two model years apart—and which one comes out on top!

Pricing

First things first: let’s talk about how much each model costs. The values below are the original manufacturer’s suggested retail prices (MSRP) for each trim level—costs in the real world may vary depending on dealership fees, extra packages, and if you’re buying new or used.

In any case, the table below gives a pretty good idea of what you’ll pay for a Mazda CX-5:

Model	2022 MSRP	2021 MSRP
Mazda CX-5 Sport	N/A	$26,595
Mazda CX-5 Base	$27,525	N/A
Mazda CX-5 Touring	N/A	$28,335
Mazda CX-5 Select	$29,525	N/A
Mazda CX-5 Preferred	$31,225	N/A
Mazda CX-5 Carbon Edition	$32,345	$30,180
Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring	N/A	$31,785
Mazda CX-5 Premium	$33,935	N/A
Mazda CX-5 Carbon Edition Turbo	N/A	$31,985
Mazda CX-5 Premium Plus	$35,575	N/A
Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring Reserve	N/A	$36,610
Mazda CX-5 Turbo	$38,025	N/A
Mazda CX-5 Signature	N/A	$38,730
Mazda CX-5 Turbo Signature	$40,275	N/A

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General specs

There are some minor differences between the engine specs for the 2021 and 2022 CX-5 models.

The 2021 model comes standard with a 187-hp four-cylinder engine or a 250-hp turbocharged version paired with a responsive six-speed automatic transmission and front or all-wheel drive.

Similarly, the 2022 model comes with a standard 187-hp four-cylinder engine. However, the optional 256-hp turbocharged version adds an extra six horsepower for a little more oomph on the road. Both are paired with the same six-speed automatic transmission and come standard with all-wheel drive.

Both models provide an engaging and responsive driving experience that leaves the competition feeling dull by comparison.

Let’s break down the differences between the 2021 and 2022 Mazda CX-5’s performance:

	2022 Mazda CX-5	2021 Mazda CX-5
Base engine	2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (187 horsepower)	2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (187 horsepower)
Upgraded engine	Turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (256 horsepower)	Turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (250 horsepower)
Transmission	Six-speed automatic	Six-speed automatic
Drivetrain	All-wheel drive	Front or All-wheel drive
Maximum towing capacity	2,000 lbs	2,000 lbs

Fuel economy

Here are the EPA-estimated fuel efficiency ratings for the 2021 and 2022 Mazda CX-5 models depending on which engine and which drivetrain they are equipped with:

Base engine (front-wheel drive): 25 city/31 highway/28 combined mpg

Base engine (AWD): 24 city/30 highway/26 combined mpg

Upgraded turbo engine (front-wheel drive): 23 city/28 highway/25 combined mpg

Upgraded turbo engine (AWD): 22 city/27 highway/24 combined mpg

The base engine with front-wheel drive provides the best fuel economy, but you will sacrifice some performance power for it.

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Safety ratings

If you’re looking for a crossover vehicle, chances are that you’re looking for a safe ride as well. Whether you go with the 2021 or the 2022 CX-5, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is one of the safest out there.

Both the 2021 and 2022 Mazda CX-5 models have an overall five-star rating from the National Highway Transportation Administration (NHTSA)—they received a five-out-of-five score in every crash test category except for rollover, where they dropped to a four.

Maybe even more impressive is the Top Safety Pick+ accolade from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for both model years with perfect “Good” ratings on everything except seat belt reminders and LATCH ease of use.

Standard safety features for the Mazda CX-5 include automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.

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Styling and interior changes

Apart from a few tweaks, the interiors of the 2021 and the 2022 Mazda CX-5 models are basically the same. Both have quality materials and a refined design that give the sophisticated vibes you’d expect from a luxury brand.

Here are some interior highlights of the Mazda CX-5:

Floor-hinged accelerator pedal

Comfortable steering wheel placement

Tray and bin in the center console for easily accessible storage

10.3-inch infotainment display

Rotary controller and volume knob on the center console

Voice command capability

Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Mazda Connected Services app

Subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot

Higher trims also offer heated and ventilated front seats, an eight-way power driver's seat, a two-position driver's seat memory, a heated leather steering wheel, and more!

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2022 Mazda CX-5 vs. 2021 Mazda CX-5: Which should you buy?

When it comes down to it, the two major differences between the 2021 and 2022 models are cost and engine options.

The 2021 model isn’t going to cost you as much as the 2022 model, and you’ll still get most of what makes the CX-5 such a fun, safe, and classy vehicle.

However, if you’re looking to add a little bit more zip to your daily drive, the upgraded turbo engine for the 2022 model comes with an extra six horsepower. The 2022 model also has a slightly sleeker body style and updates to its seating and suspension.

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