The Mazda CX-5 and Its Rivals: A Detailed SUV Comparison

Mar 8, 2025

You have many choices when looking for a compact crossover SUV, including the Mazda CX-5. Compact SUVs are one of the fastest-growing categories, making competition for this type of vehicle high. Learn more about what makes the Mazda CX-5 stand out from other small SUVs and some key details about its competitors.

New CX-5 Inventory

Overview of the Mazda CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 is one of the leading compact SUVs on the market. It’s sophisticated and elegant with a driver-centric interior. This small SUV comes standard with i-Activ all-wheel drive (AWD) and Mazda’s Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) terrain management system for enhanced traction and an exceptional driving experience. In contrast, several of its competitors offer AWD only as an option.

Under the hood, the CX-5 features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder SKYACTIV engine with an output of 187 horsepower — or a turbocharged version with 256 horsepower — outperforming its competitors. The MSRP for the Mazda CX-5 is $28,570.

In addition, the CX-5 has upscale features such as available nappa leather seating materials, genuine wood trim, and ambient interior lighting, adding to its sophisticated feel.

To make an informed decision as to whether the Mazda CX-5 is right for your lifestyle in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, you should understand the features and details of its top competitors. You’ll soon discover why the CX-5 is so popular.

Mazda CX-5 vs. Key Competitors

2025 Subaru Forester

With the Mazda CX-5 vs. the Subaru Forester showdown, the first thing you notice is the difference in appearance. While the CX-5 is sleek and elegant, the Forester has a rugged, almost boxy exterior. This SUV also has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 180 horsepower and comes standard with AWD. The Forester’s MSRP is $29,995.

2025 Kia Sportage

The Kia Sportage is somewhat of a Mazda CX-5 equivalent. The Sportage has sporty looks with a touch of sophistication. This compact SUV has a roomy interior and a 2.5-liter 187-horsepower engine. An Edmunds review of the Kia Sportage states it has soft handling and feels slightly underpowered for its size. The MSRP for the Kia Sportage is $27,390.

2024 Nissan Rogue

The Nissan Rogue is another potential CX-5 competitor. One difference is that this is a midsize SUV instead of a compact SUV, so the comparison differs slightly. The Rogue has more power with its 201-horsepower turbocharged engine and available AWD system. While the Rogue has power, some auto reviewers, such as Car and Driver, feel it doesn’t handle as well as it could. For a midsize SUV, the MSRP price of $29,230 is reasonable.

Other Noteworthy Contenders

There are also other vehicles similar to the Mazda CX-5.

2024 Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V is somewhat comparable to the Mazda CX-5. It’s a reliable compact crossover SUV with similar styling to the CX-5, but its MSRP of $30,825 is quite a bit higher than its rival’s. The CR-V also comes in hybrid models with a higher starting price. The gas-powered models have a 191-horsepower turbocharged engine and numerous driver-assistance safety features similar to those in the Mazda CX-5.

2024 Toyota RAV4

You’ll notice several differences when you compare the Mazda CX-5 to the Toyota RAV4. The RAV4 is designed for rugged off-road adventures as opposed to the CX-5’s elegant urban-inspired design. Under the hood of this compact crossover SUV, you’ll find a 203-horsepower engine with standard front-wheel drive or optional AWD. One main difference between the RAV4 and CX-5 is the Mazda comes standard with its i-Activ AWD system across the CX-5 lineup. According to Motor Trend, the RAV4 has an MSRP of $28,675.

2024 Hyundai TUCSON

The 2024 Hyundai TUCSON is a stylish compact SUV considered a CX-5 competitor. This SUV has gas, hybrid, and plug-in-hybrid models for various driving conditions. The gas-powered version has a 2.5-liter 187-horsepower engine, similar to that of the CX-5. The Hyundai TUCSON’s MSRP is $29,900.

Future Trends and Developments in the Compact Crossover SUV Segment

According to a report by Precedence Research, the compact crossover SUV market continues to grow due to evolving consumer preferences, urbanization, and cost considerations. Globally, the small SUV market was valued at approximately $550 billion in 2023, reached $553.52 billion in 2024, and is expected to climb to $590 billion by 2034.

We’ll probably see more moves toward hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and all-electric SUVs in the future as consumers strive to reduce their carbon footprint and federal standards push to reduce fossil fuel consumption. In addition, we’ll see advancements in technology features for all SUVs, including the compact crossover SUV category, such as innovative infotainment features with more intuitive touch screens and better navigation systems.

Choosing the Right SUV

Mazda CX-5 reviews from customers and Consumer Reports are quite positive. Consumer Reports says the CX-5 is one of the best small SUVs on the market, with responsive handling and a quiet, upscale interior. Considering the alternatives to the Mazda CX-5, its reliability, standard features, and overall cost show why it leads the compact SUV market. When choosing a compact SUV, balance the cost vs. features, the reliability and capability over design, and power and performance vs. fuel economy.

Key Features Setting Mazda CX-5 Apart

Key features that make the Mazda CX-5 stand apart from its competition include:

Standard Mi-Drive and i-Activ AWD systems
Optional turbocharged engine
Stylish exterior design
Upscale and comfortable interior

Take the Mazda CX-5 for a Test-Drive

Contact our team at John Kennedy Mazda Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, to learn more about the Mazda CX-5 and take one for a test-drive. We carry a large inventory of this popular Mazda SUV so you can find the perfect trim and features for your lifestyle and driving needs.

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