2016 Mazda CX-5 Does AWD Tests Against Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester in Snow

The same track configuration was also used to prove that the MX-5 is an all-weather roadster and that the CX-9 model is more responsive, despite having a downsized turbo engine instead of the V6. Yet, it's the CX-5 that faces the toughest challenge of all, as Subaru and Honda make small competitive SUVs.

The Forester is the go-to model for AWD combined with active safety systems. Meanwhile, the Honda CR-V is the best seller in this segment, though that's due to its practicality, efficiency and low price.

The guys from TFL Car filmed a very compelling and fair review, but we think they didn't say everything they wanted to because Mazda's engineers were looking over their shoulder. For example, the ride in the CX-5 is clearly the most jittery of the group and the automatic gearbox creaks when you let go of the brakes. Still, Mazda organized a fair comparison by fitting all three SUVs with the same type of tire.

Obviously, a full-time 4WD system with three differentials and slippage detecting torque vectoring would be the bestÿ. However, not even Range Rovers have that as standard now. Honda's compromise seems to be the worst, as the new CR-V reacts slowly to the loss of traction on the front wheels. To beat the Subaru, Mazda has thrown a lot of technology into the CX-5. It's got an electromagnetic clutch that activates the rear wheels. However, the sensors that tell it what to do are smart and figure out when AWD needs to be on before traction is lost.

Mazda organized a compelling test where the vehicles were forced to stop on an incline, simulating a snowy driveway. They then have to move forward but with one turn of the steering wheel dialed in, as if making a right turn onto the main road. The Subaru is in a pinch, probably because it doesn't figure out what needs to happen when the driver accelerates. Because none of these cars have locking differentials, they need to apply the brakes to each wheel to stop it from spinning, so the car whose computer has more things to do is going to be the slowest.

These results are going to be disputed, no doubt about it. Subaru fans will tell us about the advantages of the CVT and how AWD that's always on is superior. That's why all you need to remember is that Mazda has seriously stepped up its game.