2023 MAZDA CX-5 vs. 2023 Honda CR-V

Has the time come for you to upgrade your commute from Dublin to Powell with a do-it-all SUV? If so, it’s wise to consider the Honda CR-V or Mazda CX-5. Both have strong reputations, but which is best for you? To help you decide, our team has laid out a strong comparison between these two rivals. Below, you can continue your Mazda research by exploring performance, safety specs, and even the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5 Edmunds reviews! 

MAZDA CX-5 vs. Honda CR-V: Performance

When looking to make the switch to an SUV, performance is critical. How do these two SUVs match up when the rubber meets the road? While the Honda does offer nominally better standard specs, there is no possibility to upgrade among the paltry selection of just two trims. With the Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, you can upgrade to a 227-hp engine and pick your favorite configuration among eight available trim levels. Explore the performance of these models here:

Engine: 

• MAZDA CX-5: 186-hp SKYACTIV®-G 2.5L 4-cylinder engine rated at 186 lb-ft of torque
• Honda CR-V: 190-hp 1.5L inline 4-cylinder engine rated at 179 lb-ft of torque

Fuel Economy:

• MAZDA CX-5: 24 mpg city/30 mpg highway*
• Honda CR-V: 28 mpg city/34 mpg highway

Towing Capacity: 

• MAZDA CX-5: 2,000 pounds
• Honda CR-V: 1,500 pounds 

MAZDA CX-5 vs. Honda CR-V: Safety Features 

Along with performance, strong safety specs are essential for any SUV. This is especially true if you plan to travel with friends and family. If safety is a priority on your list, you’ll be pleased to find a few exclusive safety features only offered on the 2023 Mazda CX-5: 

• Advanced Smart City Brake Support with Pedestrian Detection
• Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• 360º View Monitor
• Driver Attention Alert

Honda CR-V & MAZDA CX-5 Edmunds Reviews

While we’re eager to share how much we love the 2023 Mazda CX-5, you don’t have to just take our word for it. Experts across the industry agree that this SUV is a segment leader. In the 2023 Mazda CX-5 Edmunds review, they had this to say about this SUV: “The Mazda CX-5 is impressive from the moment you lay eyes on the expressive, sharklike nose. The good vibes continue when you take a seat inside and see the beautifully constructed cabin that puts all other vehicles in this class to shame. Few crossovers offer a sense of adventure, but you get it with the Mazda CX-5.”

While the 2023 Honda CR-V Edmunds review also mentioned highlights, they did cast some doubt on the performance and efficiency of this SUV: “We like the turbocharged 1.5-liter engine in the current CR-V. While it doesn’t offer thrilling performance, acceleration is quick enough for this kind of vehicle. Unfortunately, today’s CR-V Hybrid is quite a bit slower than the standard version, and a long-term test of a 2021 CR-V Hybrid revealed that its fuel economy was nearly the same as with a non-hybrid.”

Is the Honda CR-V or MAZDA CX-5 Right for You?

Now that you’ve had the chance to make your comparison, will it be the Honda CR-V or Mazda CX-5? It’s pretty clear that the Mazda SUV is the superior option, so you’d be wise to bring it home to Worthington! If you’re ready for a test drive, you can visit our Columbus dealership to get behind the wheel. Still doing your Mazda homework? Explore the new Mazda CX-50 trims with our team today!