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Cars Similar to Mazda CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 stands out in the compact crossover SUV market, capturing the attention of many drivers. In 2023 alone, it sold over 153,000 units, showcasing its strong appeal. With a rating of 9 out of 10, it ranks third among its competitors, starting at $30,265. However, it’s wise to explore cars similar to the Mazda CX-5. You might find options that better fit your needs or budget. Think about what features matter most to you—whether it’s performance, comfort, or technology, as there are several cars similar to the Mazda CX-5 that could meet your expectations.

Key Takeaways
Explore alternatives to the Mazda CX-5, like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, to find a vehicle that fits your needs and budget.
Consider cargo space when choosing a compact SUV. The Honda CR-V offers significantly more room than the CX-5, making it ideal for families.
Evaluate performance metrics. The Ford Escape provides quicker acceleration and nimble handling, perfect for those who enjoy a sporty drive.
Look for fuel efficiency. The Nissan Rogue and Mitsubishi Outlander offer competitive MPG ratings, helping you save on gas.
Test drive multiple options. Experience the comfort and features of different SUVs to determine which one best suits your lifestyle.
Key Features of Cars Similar to Mazda CX-5

When you’re looking for cars similar to the Mazda CX-5, you’ll want to consider what makes a compact crossover SUV stand out. These vehicles typically offer a blend of versatility, comfort, and technology. Let’s dive into some of the top competitors and see how they stack up against the CX-5.
Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is a strong contender in the compact SUV market. It boasts a spacious interior and a reputation for reliability. You’ll appreciate the CR-V’s user-friendly technology, including a touchscreen infotainment system that supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
One of the standout features of the CR-V is its cargo space. With the rear seats up, it offers 39.3 cubic feet, which is more than the CX-5’s 29.1 cubic feet. If you fold the seats down, the CR-V expands to a whopping 75.8 cubic feet, making it perfect for hauling larger items.
Toyota RAV4
Next up is the Toyota RAV4, another popular choice among compact crossover SUVs. The RAV4 combines rugged styling with a comfortable ride. You’ll find that it comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of advanced driver assistance features that enhance your driving experience.
Here’s a quick comparison of cargo space between the RAV4 and the CX-5:
Vehicle | Cargo Space with Rear Seats Up | Cargo Space with Rear Seats Down |
|---|---|---|
Toyota RAV4 | 37.5 cubic feet | 69.8 cubic feet |
Mazda CX-5 | 29.1 cubic feet | 59.3 cubic feet |
As you can see, the RAV4 offers more cargo space than the CX-5, making it a practical choice for families or anyone needing extra room.
Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester is known for its all-wheel-drive capabilities, making it an excellent option for those who enjoy outdoor adventures. You’ll find that it comes standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, which includes features like Active Torque Vectoring and Vehicle Dynamics Control. This system enhances traction on various terrains, giving you confidence whether you’re on a snowy road or a muddy trail.
In terms of reliability, the Forester has a solid reputation, but it ranks slightly lower than the CX-5. Here’s a quick look at their reliability ratings:
Vehicle | Reliability Rating | Average Annual Repair Cost | Rank (out of SUVs) |
|---|---|---|---|
Subaru Forester | 3.5 out of 5.0 | $632 | 21st out of 26 |
Mazda CX-5 | 4.5 out of 5.0 | $447 | 1st out of 26 |
While the Forester offers great off-road capabilities, the CX-5 edges it out in reliability and lower repair costs.
Performance of Compact Crossover SUVs

When it comes to performance, compact crossover SUVs like the Ford Escape, Nissan Rogue, and Hyundai Tucson each offer unique driving experiences. Let’s break down how these vehicles compare to the Mazda CX-5 in terms of acceleration, handling, and overall performance metrics.
Ford Escape
The Ford Escape is known for its nimble handling and quick acceleration. If you enjoy a sporty drive, you’ll appreciate how the Escape feels on the road. It’s lighter than the Mazda CX-5, which gives it an edge in acceleration. In fact, here’s how the two compare:
Metric | Ford Escape | Mazda CX-5 |
|---|---|---|
Zero to 60 MPH | 8.4 sec | 8.7 sec |
Quarter Mile | 16.6 sec | 16.7 sec |
Speed in 1/4 Mile | 84.5 MPH | 78.3 MPH |
Zero to 100 MPH | 15.2 sec | 16.7 sec |
Quarter Mile (2.0 engine) | 14.4 sec | 14.8 sec |
Speed in 1/4 Mile (2.0) | 97 MPH | 95 MPH |
Cornering G’s | 0.87 G | 0.78 G |
Figure Eight Time | 27.3 sec | 28.5 sec |
As you can see, the Ford Escape outperforms the Mazda CX-5 in several key metrics. Its lighter weight—approximately 300 to 500 pounds less than the CX-5—contributes to its superior acceleration and handling. If you prioritize a fun driving experience, the Escape might be the right choice for you.
Nissan Rogue
Next, let’s talk about the Nissan Rogue. This compact SUV offers a smooth ride and impressive fuel efficiency. The Rogue features a 1.5L engine that produces 201 horsepower, which is more than the CX-5’s 2.5L engine with 187 horsepower. Here’s a quick comparison of their engine options and performance ratings:
Feature | Nissan Rogue | Mazda CX-5 |
|---|---|---|
Engine | 1.5L 201 hp I3 | 2.5L 187 hp I4 |
Horsepower | 201 hp @ 5600 rpm | 187 hp @ 6000 rpm |
Torque | 225 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm | 185 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm |
Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
MPG City | 30 | N/A |
MPG Highway | 37 | N/A |
Curb Weight | 3477 lbs | 3679 lbs |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 1500 lbs | 2000 lbs |
The Rogue’s higher horsepower and torque ratings give it a robust feel on the road. Plus, its fuel economy is impressive, making it a great option for those who want to save at the pump. However, if towing capacity is important to you, the CX-5 has the advantage here, allowing you to tow up to 2000 lbs compared to the Rogue’s 1500 lbs.
Hyundai Tucson
Finally, let’s consider the Hyundai Tucson. This compact SUV is known for its comfortable ride and spacious interior. The Tucson also boasts a towing capacity of 2750 lbs, which is significantly higher than the Mazda CX-5’s 2000 lbs. Here’s a quick look at their towing capacities:
Vehicle | Towing Capacity (lbs) |
|---|---|
Hyundai Tucson | 2750 |
Mazda CX-5 | 2000 |
If you plan to tow trailers or other equipment, the Tucson provides a clear advantage. Its combination of power and comfort makes it a versatile choice for various driving needs.
Interior Quality and Comfort
When it comes to interior quality and comfort, the Kia Sportage, Volkswagen Tiguan, and Chevrolet Equinox each bring something unique to the table. Let’s explore how these compact SUVs compare to the Mazda CX-5.
Kia Sportage
The Kia Sportage offers a spacious and comfortable interior. You’ll find that it has more rear legroom and hip room than the CX-5, making it a great choice for families or anyone who often travels with passengers. Here’s a quick comparison of seating comfort:
Feature | Mazda CX-5 | Kia Sportage |
|---|---|---|
Front Headroom | +0.4 inches | – |
Front Hip Room | +0.9 inches | – |
Rear Legroom | +1.4 inches | – |
Rear Hip Room | +4.1 inches | – |
Front Step-Up Height | -0.9 inches | – |
Rear Step-Up Height | -1.2 inches | – |
Passenger Volume | +5 cubic feet | – |
With its generous space, the Sportage ensures that you and your passengers stay comfortable on long drives.
Volkswagen Tiguan
The Volkswagen Tiguan impresses with its tech-savvy interior. It features an 8-inch touchscreen, which may seem smaller than the CX-5’s 10.25-inch screen, but it offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This means you can connect your smartphone without the hassle of cords. Here’s how they stack up:
Feature | Mazda CX-5 | Volkswagen Tiguan |
|---|---|---|
Infotainment Screen Size | 10.25-inch touchscreen | 8-inch touchscreen |
Operating System | Less modern, may not be user-friendly | MIB3 system with wireless connectivity |
Smartphone Integration | Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto | Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto |
Additional Features | N/A | Range of connected services and premium audio options |
The Tiguan’s advanced features enhance your driving experience, making it a strong competitor in the compact SUV market.
Chevrolet Equinox
The Chevrolet Equinox shines when it comes to rear seat space. It offers 4 cubic feet more passenger volume than the Mazda CX-5. Additionally, the maximum cargo space in the Equinox reaches 63.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, compared to 56.3 cubic feet in the CX-5. This extra space can be a game-changer for those who need to haul gear or luggage.
The Chevrolet Equinox has 4 cubic feet more passenger volume than the Mazda CX-5.
The maximum cargo space in the Equinox is 63.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, compared to 56.3 cubic feet in the Mazda CX-5.
With these features, the Equinox stands out as a practical choice for anyone needing extra room.
Fuel Economy of Competing SUVs
Fuel economy plays a crucial role when you’re choosing a compact SUV. With rising fuel prices and increasing environmental awareness, many buyers prioritize efficiency. The Mazda CX-5 offers an EPA-estimated 24 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. But how does it stack up against its competitors? Let’s take a closer look at the Mitsubishi Outlander and the Volvo XC40.
Mitsubishi Outlander
The Mitsubishi Outlander is a solid choice if you’re looking for a balance between space and fuel efficiency. Here’s how its fuel economy compares to the Mazda CX-5:
Vehicle | Drive Type | City MPG | Highway MPG |
|---|---|---|---|
Mazda CX-5 | AWD | 26 | 30 |
Mitsubishi Outlander | FWD | 24 | 31 |
Mitsubishi Outlander | AWD | 24 | 30 |

As you can see, the Outlander offers slightly lower city MPG but performs well on the highway. This makes it a practical option for long drives.
Volvo XC40
Next, let’s talk about the Volvo XC40. This compact SUV combines luxury with efficiency. Here’s how its fuel economy compares to the 2025 Mazda CX-5:
Vehicle | City MPG | Highway MPG |
|---|---|---|
2025 Mazda CX-5 | 26 | 30 |
2025 Volvo XC40 T5 | 23 | 30 |
The XC40’s city MPG is a bit lower than the CX-5, but it still offers a comfortable ride. Additionally, the XC40 features mild hybrid systems that enhance efficiency, making it a strong contender in the compact SUV market.
Other Competitors
When considering fuel economy, don’t overlook other options like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. Both models offer similar fuel efficiency ratings to the CX-5, making them worthy alternatives.
“People care about the efficiency of these vehicles,” a recent survey noted. “They are willing to pay a little bit higher than for small cars.” This highlights the growing importance of fuel economy in the compact crossover segment.
In summary, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 excels in performance, interior quality, and advanced technology compared to its competitors. However, options like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 offer more cargo space, while the Ford Escape and Hyundai Tucson provide a sportier driving experience.
Take a look at the consumer ratings below to see how the CX-5 stacks up against its rivals:
Vehicle | Consumer Rating |
|---|---|
2025 Mazda CX-5 | 82 |
2025 Nissan Murano | 86 |
2025 Buick Encore GX | 85 |
2025 Chevrolet TrailBlazer | 85 |
2025 Chevrolet Blazer | 85 |
2025 Chevrolet Traverse | 85 |
2025 Subaru Crosstrek | 85 |
2025 Kia Telluride | 85 |
2025 Lexus RX | 85 |
2025 Mitsubishi Outlander | 84 |
2025 Subaru Ascent | 84 |
Ultimately, reflect on what matters most to you in a vehicle. Consider test-driving some of these highlighted alternatives to find the best fit for your lifestyle! 🚗
FAQ
What are the main competitors of the Mazda CX-5?
The Mazda CX-5 competes with several popular models, including the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Subaru Forester. Each offers unique features and benefits, making them worthy alternatives.
How does the Subaru Forester compare in terms of cargo space?
The Subaru Forester provides more cargo space than the Mazda CX-5. With the rear seats up, it offers 31.1 cubic feet, and with the seats down, it expands to 76.1 cubic feet, making it ideal for outdoor adventures.
Is the Mazda CX-5 good for families?
Yes, the Mazda CX-5 is a great family vehicle. It offers a comfortable interior, advanced safety features, and ample cargo space. However, if you need more room, consider the Subaru Forester or Honda CR-V.
What is the fuel economy of the Subaru Forester?
The Subaru Forester delivers an EPA-estimated 26 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. This efficiency makes it a practical choice for those looking to save on fuel costs.
Should I test drive the Subaru Forester?
Absolutely! Test driving the Subaru Forester allows you to experience its handling, comfort, and features firsthand. It’s a great way to see if it meets your needs compared to the Mazda CX-5.



