Cars Similar to Mazda CX-5

Cars Similar to Mazda CX-5
Image Source: unsplash

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.

Line chart showing Mazda CX-5 sales from 2023 to 2025

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

Key Features of Cars Similar to Mazda CX-5
Image Source: unsplash

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

Performance of Compact Crossover SUVs
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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

Bar chart comparing city and highway MPG for Mazda CX-5 and Mitsubishi Outlander

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.

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