New Mazda CX-5 vs Honda CR-V
New Mazda CX-5 vs Honda CR-V | Which Should I Buy?
The 2020s continue to be dominated by the compact SUV. They’re not as bulky as SUVs of old, but they sit higher on the road and offer more versatility for drivers who need extra cargo space for their next road trip or a growing family. In truth, there’s no shortage of excellent compact SUVs on the market, but finding the right one for you can be tricky. In the sections below, we’ll help you compare and contrast the differences between two of the best-selling SUVs in the country: the Mazda CX-5 and the Honda CR-V. Both of these SUVs are the best-sellers for their respective brands, and you likely pass one every time you hop on the road. In our breakdown, we’ll highlight fuel economy numbers, cargo space, powertrains, and all the information you need to narrow down your next SUV. While we’re a Mazda dealership first, we have our bias. We’re well-versed with both SUVs, though, and truth be told, if these are the SUVs you’re deciding between, you won’t make a wrong choice. Learn more about Honda and Mazda SUVs with our Bob Moore Mazda dealership in OKC!
Honda CR-V vs Mazda CX-5 Fuel Efficiency and Powertrain
Let’s start by comparing the powertrains the two SUVs offer. The Mazda comes with your choice of two inline four-cylinders, one with a turbocharger and the other without. The Honda also offers an inline four-cylinder with a turbocharger, though the engine is a little smaller. We’ve broken down everything you need to know about each engine in the chart below:
| Model: | Mazda CX-5 | Honda CR-V |
| Engine: | 2.5L Inline-4/2.5L Turbo Inline-4 | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 |
| Horsepower: | 187/256 hp | 190 hp |
| Torque: | 186/320 lb-ft | 179 lb-ft |
| Transmission: | 6-speed automatic | CVT |
| Drivetrain: | AWD | FWD/AWD |
| Fuel Economy: | 26/31 or 22/27 | 28/34 |
There’s nothing too crazy to point out here. The smaller engine in the Honda is a bit more fuel-efficient than the one in the Mazda, which might be a deciding factor. While both SUVs can be equipped with AWD, the Mazda comes standard with it. The Honda CR-V has a hybrid variant with a 204-horsepower engine, but for the purposes of this breakdown, we’re going to keep our focus on traditional gas powertrains. If you’re looking for an extra kick of power from your SUV, the Mazda CX-5 Turbo is the most powerful option you’ll find between the two SUVs. Let’s see how they stack up when comparing cabins.
CX-5 vs CR-V Cargo Space and Cabins
Both SUVs are among the most spacious in the class, which is one reason they’re among the best-loved SUVs on the market. The CR-V is larger, with 39.3 cubic feet of cargo volume in the rear, and up to 76.5 cubic feet of total cargo space. The Mazda CX-5 gets a complete redesign as it steps into a new year of production, and benefits from a longer, wider frame with more room for all your gear. It now has 33.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear row, expanding to 66.5 cubic feet with the split-fold rear row. While not quite as big as the CR-V, it’s not that far off. Both SUVs are well-crafted, and each earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, designating them among the safest vehicles on the road. Technology is integrated across both cabins, with the Honda getting a 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, while the Mazda gets a 12.0-inch or 15.6-inch unit. Comparing cabins is largely a matter of personal taste, but we think the Mazda SUVs take the cake. Mazda focuses on elevating its cabins with higher-quality materials, aiming to deliver a cabin that competes with luxury brands. The Honda cabin is plenty spacious, though it can be a little Spartan and dated. The Mazda benefits from a completely redesigned cabin, while the Honda largely sticks to a winning formula it’s honed through the decades. Compare and contrast cabins with Bob Moore Mazda today!
CR-V vs CX-5 Pricing Breakdown
The Mazda is offered in five trim levels, while the Honda is offered in three gas trim levels. We’ve listed the trim levels and MSRPs to help identify where you can find value.
| Trim Level: | MSRP: |
| Honda CR-V LX | $30,920 |
| Honda CR-V EX | $33,150 |
| Honda CR-V EX-L | $35,400 |
| Trim Level: | MSRP: |
| Mazda CX-5 2.5 S | $29,990 |
| Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select | $31,990 |
| Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Preferred | $34,250 |
| Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium | $36,900 |
| Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Plus | $38,990 |
Both SUVs are competitively priced, and while the CX-5 offers more gas options, the top end of the CR-V lineup is supplemented with Hybrid models we haven’t listed here. The CX-5 Preferred is a popular middle-of-the-road option, giving you 19-inch wheels, a power liftgate, a head-up display, heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a memory driver’s seat. The EX is Honda’s most comparably priced option, also offering heated front seats, a smart key, and a moonroof. As mentioned, the top end of the Mazda lineup gets a little more luxurious, with larger screens and more premium features.
Final Mazda CX-5 vs Honda CR-V Comparison
All told, we’d be lying to you if we said one of these SUVs runs away from the other. They’re two of the best cars in the industry, always at the top of review site recommendations and best seller lists. Ultimately, if you want to maximize cargo space, choose the CR-V. If you’re looking for a little bit of a more upscale experience, or you’re looking for some extra horsepower, choose the Mazda CX-5. Still not sure which SUV you should choose? Test drive your next SUV for sale in OKC with Bob Moore Mazda.