The 2023 Mazda CX-50 and Honda CR-V Go at it

If you’re in the market for a small crossover SUV, you can’t go wrong with either the Honda CR-V or the Mazda CX-50. The Honda CR-V is a great choice if fuel economy is a top priority for you, thanks to its exceptional fuel efficiency with its hybrid powertrain. On the other hand, the Mazda CX-50 is a great choice if you prioritize performance over efficiency, thanks to its impressive turbocharged engine option. Ultimately, the choice between these two SUVs depends on your individual needs and preferences. We recommend test driving both to see which one feels like the best fit for you.

If you’re looking for a small crossover SUV, you might want to consider the Mazda CX-50, which comes with an all-wheel drive and a four-cylinder engine as standard. However, keep in mind that its fuel efficiency is a bit below average for a small SUV, with an EPA estimate of 27 mpg in combined city and highway driving. If you’re looking for a more efficient option, the Honda CR-V might be a better fit for you. The base CR-V with all-wheel drive gets an EPA estimate of up to 30 mpg, while the hybrid CR-V is even more efficient at 37 mpg combined. Ultimately, the decision between the two depends on your priorities and preferences, so we recommend taking both for a test drive to see which one feels like the best fit for you.

When it comes to performance, Mazda’s CX-50 offers a bit more power than the Honda CR-V. The CX-50’s base engine produces 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, while the CR-V’s base engine makes 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. However, Mazda’s fuel efficiency is a bit lower than Honda’s, with an EPA estimate of 27 mpg combined city and highway driving. If you’re looking for more power, the CX-50 Turbo generates 256 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, while the top-level CR-V hybrid produces 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. In testing, the CX-50 Turbo was faster, going from 0 to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds, while the CR-V hybrid took 8.0 seconds. Ultimately, it depends on your priorities and preferences, so we recommend test driving both SUVs to see which one suits you best.

If you’re interested in technology features, you might like to know that the Mazda CX-50 has an 8.8-inch center display screen, which is larger than the Honda CR-V’s standard 7-inch touchscreen. Interestingly, upscale versions of the CR-V come with a 9-inch touchscreen display, which some drivers may prefer. Both systems are user-friendly, but the CR-V’s touchscreen interface is more straightforward to use. However, with the CX-50, you’ll have to use a rotary control knob to navigate the menus and buttons unless you’re utilizing Apple CarPlay or Android Auto smartphone integration.

In addition to its larger center display screen, the Mazda CX-50 boasts a more refined interior than the Honda CR-V, with premium materials and comfortable front seats that make for a relaxing driving experience. Plus, you can opt for heated and ventilated seats along with heated rear seats. Road noise is minimal, too, adding to the overall comfort of the vehicle. And, with its sharp handling, the CX-50 is also a fun car to drive. However, keep in mind that the trade-off for this fun driving experience is a slightly firmer ride.

I’ve heard that the Honda CR-V is known for having a smoother ride than the Mazda CX-50. However, some drivers have noted that the CR-V can feel stressed during hard acceleration, and its hybrid powertrain can be a bit noisy. On the other hand, the CX-50’s handling is sharp and it’s a fun car to drive. The CX-50 also boasts a refined interior with premium materials and comfortable front seats. Drivers can even opt for heated and ventilated seats, as well as heated rear seats. Road noise is minimal, which adds to the overall comfort of the vehicle.

Photo Source: Mazda USA