2023 Mazda CX-5 Vs 2023 Honda CR-V, Which Wins Out?

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 was one of Mazda’s best-selling SUVs last year. Embodying Mazda’s unique aesthetic, the compact crossover SUV offers impressive capability and versatility. While Mazda has been focused on new SUVs like the CX-70 and CX-90, the CX-5 continues to be an affordable and engaging SUV. A competitor to the CX-5 is the 2023 Honda CR-V. Newly redesigned for the new model year, the compact SUV offers impressive capability and versatility. The CR-V arrives with further improvements from the last iteration, making it a tough match for the CX-5. We’ll look at the 2023 CX-5 and 2023 CR-V and see which SUV is the better choice.

Mazda CX-5

The 2023 CX-5 is an engaging and versatile compact crossover SUV. While it does not feature any changes for the new model year, Mazda has upgraded both the suspension and chassis, giving the CX-5 better responsiveness and agility. For its engine, owners can choose between a 2.5L four-cylinder engine or a turbocharged 2.5L. The base 2.5L delivers 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, while the turbocharged 2.5L delivers 256 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. They also utilize all-wheel drive, giving the compact SUV better capability in certain terrain. The CX-5 sees 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway for fuel economy.

Along with impressive performance, the Mazda offers an impressive interior cabin. The SUV features a distinct style with high-quality materials like wood grain accents throughout the cabin. There are about 58 cubic feet of storage space for space with the seats folded down. For entertainment, owners can take advantage of a 10.3-inch infotainment screen. Regarding safety, the Mazda CX-5 offers forward-collision warnings, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot monitoring.

Honda CR-V

The 2023 Honda CR-V arrives with a new design that gives it a bolder and more rugged look. For its engine, the compact SUV utilizes a 1.5L four-cylinder engine that delivers 190 horsepower. It is paired with a continuously variable transmission; both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive are available. A hybrid powertrain is also available. It features a 2.0L four-cylinder engine and two electric motors for 204 horsepower. The CR-V comes equipped with hill-descent control, which gives it increased capability on steep declines. The SUV sees 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway for fuel economy. With the hybrid powertrain, this increases to 43 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.

Owners will find a more modern design inside the Honda CR-V with honeycomb textures throughout the dash. Honda has redesigned the front seats to reduce fatigue, so drivers feel more comfortable during long trips. The compact SUV sees 76.5 cubic feet of space with the seats folded down. There’s a 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for entertainment. Safety features include forward collision alerts, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warnings.

Verdict

Both the 2023 Mazda CX-5 and the 2023 Honda CR-V are efficient and capable compact SUVs. The CX-5 starts at an MSRP of $26,700 (plus destination fee), while the CR-V starts at an MSRP of 28,410 (plus destination fee). Aside from the pricing, the Mazda CX-5 is the better option based on its capability and versatility. Not only is it the more affordable option, but the CX-5 also offers a more engaging driving experience with a nicer interior cabin. While the CR-V offers more space and better fuel economy, drivers will have to opt for the more expensive trim to take advantage of the hybrid powertrain. Overall, the 2023 Mazda CX-5 proves to be the more engaging and worthwhile SUV.

Come Test Drive a Brand-New Mazda at Kenny Ross! 

If you’re in the market for a Mazda CX-5, look no further than Kenny Ross Mazda. We can help you find the best vehicle for your needs. At Kenny Ross, we’re more than happy to help our customers find what they are looking for. Check out our new vehicle inventory or our quality pre-owned vehicles. We can offer suggestions like auto financing to help make paying for a vehicle easier.

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Photo Credit: Honda/Mazda