We pit two compact crossover SUVs against one another in our head-to-head Mazda CX-5 vs. Honda CR-V matchup. We'll walk you through these stylish, sporty, and youthful automobiles, including their amenities, specs, and dimensions.
With an available 256-horsepower engine, more standard features, and a higher towing capacity, the Mazda CX-5 is the clear winner in our eyes – but we'll let you decide for yourself. Read on to learn more about each vehicle. Then, contact Greenway Mazda for an in-person tour and test drive of the leading Mazda CX-5.
The first stop on our virtual tour of the Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V is the trim selection each model offers. Starting with the youthful and spry Mazda CX-5, we have eight trims to choose from, including the following:
Meanwhile, the affordable Honda CR-V lags behind with just six trim options:
The Mazda CX-5 leverages a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to produce 187 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. Higher-level trims opt for a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque with regular unleaded fuel. Make the switch to premium fuel, and you'll be looking at a whopping 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque.
The Honda CR-V struggles to keep up with this impressive performance. It has a standard turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque. This may be three horsepower higher than the standard Mazda CX-5 engine, but it has six fewer pound-feet of torque. Additionally, the three hybrid Honda CR-V SUVs make only 204 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque – a level of power that pales in comparison to the available turbocharged Mazda CX-5 models.
Another significant part of our Mazda CX-5 vs. Honda CR-V clash is towing capability. With the Mazda CX-5, you'll get to tow more: up to 2,000 pounds.1 Comparatively, the Honda model in our comparison tows a maximum of 1,500 pounds.2
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| 2025 Mazda CX-5 | 2025 Honda CR-V | |
|---|---|---|
| Gas Engines |
|
1.5L turbo 4-cyl |
| Max. Horsepower | 256 | 190 |
| Max. Torque | 320 lb-ft | 179 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD or AWD |
| Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs1 | 1,500 lbs2 |
| Max. EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 26 / 30 / 283 | 26 / 31 / 284 (AWD) |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Length | 180.1 in | 184.8 in |
| Body Width | 72.6 in | 73.5 in |
| Height | 66.1-66.3 in | 66.2-66.5 in |
Size makes for another significant difference between the Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V SUVs. The Mazda CX-5 measures 180.1 inches long, 72.6 inches wide, and up to 66.3 inches tall. The Honda CR-V exceeds these dimensions lightly in every category. Given the larger dimensions of the Honda CR-V, you'll have an easier time maneuvering in the Mazda CX-5.
In terms of cargo space, the Honda CR-V overtakes the Mazda CX-5. The Mazda CX-5 offers 29.1 cubic feet of cargo space while all five seats are in use. The Honda CR-V gives a little more, with 39.3 cubic feet in the same area. Fold the second row on both models, and they offer up to 59.3 cubic feet and 76.5 cubic feet, respectively. Still, the Mazda CX-5 can hold plenty while providing a more nimble frame.
Although both models are replete with excellence, the selection of Mazda CX-5 trims comes out on top with more standard safety features, like Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
If you're looking for the safer SUV in our 2025 Mazda CX-5 vs. 2025 Honda CR-V showdown, it's clear the new Mazda CX-5 is it.
Have you found yourself leaning toward one vehicle or the other while we compare the Mazda CX-5 vs. Honda CR-V? We suspect you're leaning toward the Mazda CX-5 due to its impressive power and athletic frame.
Visit us at Greenway Mazda today, and we'll help you explore everything this SUV has to offer, including additional information we haven't covered in this guide, like the Mazda CX-5 interior details.
The Honda CR-V is the larger vehicle in our Mazda CX-5 vs. Honda CR-V clash. It measures 184.8 inches long, while our crossover Mazda CX-5 measures 180.1 inches. The Mazda model is also narrower and a pinch shorter. These nimble dimensions make the Mazda SUV the easier vehicle to park, maneuver in tight spots, and handle rush hour traffic.
The Mazda CX-5 offers 29.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear row and a maximum of 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. Meanwhile, the Honda CR-V offers 39.3 cubic feet and a maximum of 76.5 cubic feet in the same areas. Although it has less space, the Mazda model can provide more horsepower and better standard safety features.
Both the Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V are given "Great" ratings by J.D. Power.5, 6 With the driver-assistance suites for each model, you can rest assured that you'll be safe in either crossover. However, the Mazda CX-5 takes the lead with standard Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Traffic Alert – something the Honda CR-V only offers on higher trims.
1Towing capacities shown are maximums and must be reduced by the weight of any passenger, cargo hitch or optional equipment in the towing vehicle. Please refer to vehicle Owner's Manual for details regarding towing capacities and other valuable information. Towing a trailer may have an effect on vehicle's handling, braking, durability, performance and driving economy. For specific information on recommended or required equipment, see your Mazda Dealer. Hitches are available through manufacturers other than Mazda.
2Towing requires accessory towing equipment. Please see your Honda dealer for details.
3EPA-estimated mileage. Actual results will vary.
4Based on 2025 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, and other factors.
5Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2025/mazda/cx-5?srsltid=AfmBOop_W-dxJbnJf1oMhkkep3clqGxKffH6FZwAmiAnrbJ-T728RtUF
6Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2025/honda/cr-v?srsltid=AfmBOor0sJwTWehlJ-PMMe2Bjx3vj5edJXVP81VQ-UIuycvCw7hzSgY8
