Mazda CX 5 vs BMW X1 2022, which is better? Although it may seem odd to compare a tiny luxury vehicle like the BMW X1 to a mainstream one like the Mazda CX-5, both vehicles are in the top tier of their respective classes.
They both provide comparable driving experiences. The Mazda CX-5 and BMW X1 are praised for their sporty handling and peppy engine power.
In 2022, the BMW X1’s sole powertrain will be a 228-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder joined to an eight-speed automatic. This BMW has a fuel-efficient EPA combined rating of 27 mpg.
The BMW X1 provides relaxation and enjoyment but sometimes looks stiff. On the other hand, the CX-5 gets high marks for being soft, so you could say the same about it.
The ride quality of the CX-5 is “neither stiff nor light,” according to Car and Driver, and the base engine is adequate, but the turbocharged version in top trim provides a real luxury experience.
The CX-5, a car like the BMW X1, gets excellent fuel economy and offers a four-turbo engine with 250 horsepower. Front or all-wheel drive is generally available in both types.
Overview
Mazda CX 5
No one expects a small crossover SUV to offer anything more than basic style and driving fun. In a desire for daily-driven competence, these SUVs stress the “utility” in SUVs and squeeze the most room for people, pets, and personal effects.
So how does the Mazda CX-5, with its tiny luggage capacity and tight rear quarters, manage to compete for first place in the segment in 2022?
The CX-5 makes driving a lot of fun. Not just a job well done, but the same pleasure you might get from a modest sports car and the open highway, with the bonus of storage for home improvement products.
The Mazda CX-5’s four-cylinder engine is a good starting point, but the turbocharged variant adds some zip to the automobile.
The turbocharged engine is improved somewhat for 2022, achieving 6 horsepower when premium gas is used instead of regular.
This year’s minor suspension updates aim to reduce road noise and vibrations and tighten up control, which the CX-5 has always deftly balanced.
Lastly, the CX-5 receives a shot of new style via minor adjustments to the front and rear bumpers, headlights, and other trim pieces.
The CX-5 stands out for its combination of performance and refinement in such a compact package, as do rivals like the Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, and Nissan Rogue.
For a more in-depth look at why the CX-5 is a great option for a little crossover SUV, read our test team’s Professional Rating below.
BMW X1
The BMW X1 is a small, luxury SUV that is more spacious than the bigger-styled BMW X2 but less opulent than the larger X3. It’s standard on front-wheel drive and only available in higher trim levels.
All-wheel drive is also available. Our editors have praised the X1 for its driving experience, excellent cargo capacity, and passenger amenities.
There are no significant changes in the X1 until 2022. It got a face-lift in the front and rear, as well as a larger infotainment screen when it was midcycle refreshed in 2020.
If you like the feeling of having the latest body style in your SUV, there’s an excellent chance that the BMW X1 will be completely redesigned in 2023.
However, since it is near the top of our subcompact luxury SUV rankings, this current X1 remains a solid option. The Mercedes-Benz GLB, a subcompact SUV with a large cargo capacity and the option of a third row of seating, is its closest competitor.
The BMW X1 also competes with the Audi Q3 and Lexus UX 200 in terms of size. The Q3 may be worth investigating if you want a higher emphasis on technology.
The UX 200, on the other hand, has a fuel-efficient hybrid option, despite not scoring as well in our ratings as the X1. Learn more about our thoughts on the 2022 BMW X1 in our full Expert Review.
Read also: Audi Q5 vs Lincoln Corsair Comparison
Price Comparison
How Much Does the Mazda CX-5 vs BMW X1 Cost?
The base Mazda CX-5 has a $26,250 starting price, while the top-of-the-line 2.5 Turbo Signature trims cost $39,000, this is a premium car in the class.
The MSRP of the front-wheel-drive BMW X1 sDrive28i is $35,400. The cost increases to $37,400 with all-wheel drive (xDrive). A luxury subcompact SUV will often have a starting price of $30,000.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Mazda CX 5
The Mazda CX-5 stock 187-hp four-cylinder engine provides great responsiveness when driving away from stoplights or rushing through town, making it seem faster than it is.
When driving at faster speeds, such as when attempting to pass or merge onto the freeway, it feels underpowered. The performance of our 256-horsepower turbocharged vehicle was much better.
Both engines come equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. You don’t need to drive the CX-5 aggressively to appreciate or enjoy it.
The precise steering and composed cornering of course make one helluva Sunday cruise possible. Despite this, it takes bumps like a crossover and has the same ride quality.
This optimal balance of dynamics is impossible to match. There are no creaks, little road noise, or bouncy or sluggish damping. On twisty roads, the Mazda comes alive at the same time.
With the help of electricity, the steering is very satisfying. When we pressed the brake pedal on the Signature model we tested, it had a nice feel to it with no delay or sensitivity.
BMW X1
The BMW X1 has just one engine and gearbox combination: a 228-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder paired to an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
The turbo four is both powerful and fuel-efficient. We achieved a 6.3-second 60-mph time in our all-wheel-drive test vehicle, placing it among the quickest in this class.
Standard on all models is front-wheel drive. While up to 100% of the engine’s power may flow to the back for brief periods in low-traction conditions, the optional all-wheel-drive system favors the front wheels.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The predicted gas mileage for a Mazda CX-5 with the base engine is 26 mpg combined city/highway driving, according to AWD.
Our test AWD CX-5 was able to achieve 28.8 mpg on our 115-mile mixed-driving evaluation route, indicating that you can expect to achieve the EPA’s number. In certain top rival crossover SUVs, you’ll get a modest increase in fuel economy.
While the BMW X1 gets 26 mpg combined (23 city/31 highway), according to the EPA. The X1 is one of the least fuel-efficient cars in its class, according to this.
During our 115-mile road test, we recorded a 28.2 MPG, which is exactly where the X1 should be based on our expectations.
Interior Design
Mazda CX 5
If you wake up inside the top-tier CX-5 variants, you may think you’ve been kidnapped by Audi or Mercedes kidnappers. Because of its high-quality materials and design, it has a premium feel.
All of the front-seat armrests are at the same height for maximum convenience, and the well-crafted steering wheel is positioned directly in front of the driver rather than at a minor angle.
The accelerator pedal with floor hinges is preferred over the conventional accelerator pedal that hangs above the floor.
Sacrifices come in tiny sizes: in our testing, the CX-5 only had nine carry-on bags stowed behind its rear seats. A completely flat load floor is beneficial to the storage bay.
A variety of nooks and cubbies inside the cabin are also perfect for stowing smartphones and other tiny items. A wide tray in the front of the center console, for example, contains a storage bin with a removable shelf.
BMW X1
The BMW X1 has a premium interior that is well-appointed with mostly high-quality materials. Nonetheless, you’ll discover evidence of cost-cutting if you dig around.
The bin, which is concealed behind the front seat and serves as a glovebox door, is as flimsy as a plastic lunchbox. The X1’s fun attitudes are emphasized in the cockpit, which has a driver-focused design.
The driver can read the gauge cluster at a glance, which is professionally designed. The driving position is great, albeit the steering-wheel adjustments might need more range of movement in both angles and reach.
The cargo area is huge, carpeted, and chrome-trimmed. The backseat folds down to accommodate a total of 19 bags, and seven carry-on luggage may fit behind the second row.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Mazda CX 5
Each model’s 10.3-inch infotainment display is controlled by a rotary controller and volume knob on the center console. The interface is controlled using voice commands and steering wheel buttons.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the board. Mazda Connected Services offers access to vehicle features, as well as various features, via a smartphone app and a paid Wi-Fi hotspot.
BMW X1
Although intuitive and simple to use while on the go, the X1’s regular infotainment system is a little outdated. In-dash navigation:
- Apple CarPlay compatibility (Android Auto isn’t supported)
- Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity
- SiriusXM satellite radio
- USB port
- Seven-speaker stereo system is all available with the 8.8-inch iDrive system
BMW provides a rotary knob on the center console that suits snugly beneath the driver’s right hand to regulate all of these functions, which includes a 12-speaker Harman/Kardon sound system. For the phone, navigation, and other functions, the controller is surrounded by shortcut buttons.
Safety
The Mazda CX-5 and BMW X1 come standard with a full set of driver-assistance technologies, as well as some extra features. Basic driver assistance functions are provided for free, although more complex functions will need additional buying.
The crash test results for the Mazda CX 5 vs BMW X1 2022 may be found on the websites of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Warranty
Mazda CX-5
- Warranty, Bumper-to-Bumper: 3 years / 36000 miles
- Warranty, Powertrain: 5 years / 60000 miles
- Warranty, Roadside Assistance: 3 years / 36000 miles
BMW X1
- Warranty, Bumper-to-Bumper: 4 years / 50000 miles
- Warranty, Powertrain: 4 years / 50000 miles
- Warranty, Roadside Assistance: 4 years
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Mazda more reliable than BMW?
According to surveys of all of its subscribers, Consumer Reports’ December 2019 Auto Issue finds that Mazda automobiles are more dependable than BMW automobiles. According to Consumer Reports, Mazda is the second most dependable automaker. In the world, BMW is ranked 17th.
Is the Mazda CX-5 a luxury?
The Mazda CX-5 provides Mercedes-like luxury at a Toyota price point, with an MSRP of around $26,000, and the Signature model I tested costs just over $39,000. This automobile exudes elegance, with its exquisite bodywork, superb comfort, and leather- and wood-themed interior.
Which car is similar to the BMW X1?
The Audi Q3 most resembles the BMW X1 in terms of space, speed, and pricing. The Audi Q3 is most comparable to the BMW X1 in terms of size, speed, and pricing. Mercedes’s GLA is a little more rounded, while Mercedes’ GLB is a little boxier.
Where does Mazda rank in reliability?
Mazda Reliability Ratings – Mazda has been rated the most dependable car brand on the market, according to Consumer Reports. With an 83 score, Mazda takes the top position. Toyota (74), Lexus (71), and Honda (63) were the next to follow.
Final Verdict
The final verdict on Mazda CX 5 vs BMW X1 2022. The Mazda CX-5 remains one of the most popular tiny SUVs on the market. It has a nice interior, fantastic performance, and a fair price.
It falls short of the mark in terms of rear passenger space, cargo capacity, and fuel economy, but it is a fantastic vehicle in its class.
Despite the fact that the BMW X1 is smaller than a typical BMW SUV. Together with a fun-to-drive style, it offers great cargo capacity and passenger comfort.
However, you may want to investigate other viable options in this class if you prefer a more comfortable ride, a more fashionable interior, or cutting-edge technology.
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