New Honda CR-V & Toyota RAV4 vs Mazda CX-5
Infotainment systems
Honda CR-V
This, frankly, is one of the least impressive infotainment systems on the market. The graphics are crude and the 7.0in touchscreen is prone to showing reflections, making it tricky to read in bright conditions. There’s often a lengthy pause between you pressing the screen and anything happening, too. At least it comes with smartphone integration courtesy of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to bypass Honda’s software.
Mazda CX-5
Easily the best system here. For a start, you can control it by twisting and pressing a dial between the front seats, as well as via the touchscreen. The first method is much less distracting while you’re driving but, either way, the CX-5’s system is much quicker to react to commands than its rivals’. Smartphone mirroring for Apple and Android devices is standard and, on Sport Nav+ trim, you get a punchy 10-speaker Bose sound system to listen to your favourite tunes.
Toyota RAV4
Although Toyota’s system is slightly better for usability than the CR-V’s and is positioned higher up on the dashboard so that it’s easier to see, it’s still pretty dire. Not only is the 8.0in touchscreen slow to respond to inputs, but you also don’t get (and can’t add) Apple CarPlay or Android Auto smartphone mirroring – an oversight that leaves it ranked as the worst system here overall. A JBL sound system is optional; it’s worth considering, because sound quality is very good.
< Previous | Next: Space and practicality >
Page 3 of 6
