2023 Honda CR-V vs. Mazda CX-5: Let’s Compare the Numbers

The popular Honda CR-V is renewed for 2023 now offers a hybrid version, while the Mazda CX-5 continues its journey without major changes.

In such a competitive segment, the two Japanese compact SUVs each stand out in their own way. How do they compare? To help you see more clearly, we have broken down their specifications.

Powertrains: Tie

The Honda CR-V lineup features a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. By opting for the Touring variant – the most upscale – the consumer is entitled to a 2.0-litre hybrid engine with an output of 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive are available.

On Mazda’s side, all models are powered by a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder unit developing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. With the Sport version, it is possible to have a turbocharged version of the 2.5 liters. Cavalry climbs to 227 horsepower and torque to 310 lb-ft (87 octane).

We are not awarding a winner in this category, since the base engines are similar. In addition, Mazda markets a more efficient engine, while Honda offers a hybrid mill. We are therefore dealing with very different strategies on the part of these two Japanese manufacturers.

Consumption: Honda CR-V advantage

With its hybrid technology and its smaller gasoline engine, the CR-V wins in terms of consumption. With the 1.5-liter turbo engine, it burns between 7.8 and 8.4 L/100 km. This figure drops to 6.4 L/100 km for the hybrid. Thirsty, the CX-5 drinks from 9.0 (2.5 litres) to 9.8 (2.5 turbo) L/100 km.

Practical side: equality

The Honda CR-V has a larger cabin. Therefore, the trunk volume reaches 1,113 liters and rises to 2,166 liters with the seats folded down. These data are slightly lower for the hybrid, namely: 1,028 and 2,030 litres. As for the Mazda, these values ​​are established at 871 liters and 1,680 liters.

On the other hand, the CX-5 is more manageable in town thanks to its turning circle of eleven meters, unlike twelve meters for the CR-V. Still in favor of the Mazda, its towing capacity is also more interesting.

In fact, all grinds can pull up to 907 kg (2,000 lb). For the CR-V, it varies from 453 kg (999 lb) for the hybrid to 680 kg (1,500 lb) for the 1.5 turbo engine. In short, the Honda CR-V is more spacious, but the Mazda CX-5 has greater towing capacity and better handling. This is a matter of preference.

Safety: equality

When it comes to safety, the Mazda CX-5 holds the distinction Top Safety Pick+ 2022 from the American organization Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). We will have to wait before knowing the ratings of the CR-V, since it is a new generation.

As for technologies, the CR-V employs the Honda Sensing suite, while the CX-5 uses i-Activsense active and passive safety features. As standard, both vehicles include essentially the same elements: adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping system, rear cross traffic alert and blind spot monitoring system.

Technological integration: equality

You will mainly find the same technologies on board both vehicles: instrumentation equipped with a seven-inch screen, optional Bose audio system with ten (Mazda) or twelve (Honda) speakers, optional induction charging, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and multiple USB ports.

On some Honda models, it is possible to have Wi-Fi connectivity powered by a modem. Otherwise, infotainment is served by a seven- or nine-inch monitor for the CR-V, while it measures 10.25 inches in all versions of the CX-5.

Price: Mazda CX-5 Advantage

The Mazda CX-5 is offered at a more attractive starting price than the Honda CR-V. In addition, the CX-5 has more variations, providing a wide choice for the consumer. As for the CR-V, it is the only one with a hybrid engine. Unfortunately, you have to get the Touring model at nearly $50,000 to get access to it.

1. LX (AS): $34,790
2. LX (AWD): $37,590
3. Sport (AWD): $41,490
4. EX-L (AWD): $43,390
5. Touring Hybrid (AWD): $48,890

1. GX: $31,250
2. GS: $34,800
3. GS Comfort Package: $36,900
4. Kuro Edition: $38,600
5. GT: $39,850
6. Sports: $41,050
7. Sport with Turbo engine: $43,250
8. Signature: $44,250

(Note that all prices are at MSRP)

Warranties: Mazda CX-5 Advantage

Mazda offers better warranties than Honda’s:

Mazda: 3 years/unlimited mileage

Honda: 3 years/60,000 km

Mazda: 5 years/unlimited mileage

Honda: 5 years/100,000 km

Mazda: 7 years/unlimited mileage

Honda: 5 years/unlimited mileage

Regarding hybrid components for the CR-V, they are covered for a period of eight years or 160,000 kilometers, whichever comes first.