2021 MAZDA CX-5 vs. 2021 Honda CR-V

2021 MAZDA CX-5

vs.

2021 Honda CR-V
187-hp SKYACTIV®-G 2.5L 4-cylinder

Base Engine

190-hp 1.5L inline-4
25 mpg city/31 mpg highway

Fuel Efficiency

28 mpg city/34 mpg highway
2,000 pounds

Towing Capacity

1,500 pounds
Standard

Advanced Blind Spot Monitoring

Not Available on Base Trim
$25,270

Starting Price

$25,350

2021 MAZDA CX-5 vs. 2021 Honda CR-V


There’s really no “wrong” choice when shopping for a compact crossover SUV for you and your family, barring choosing a vehicle that’s truly unsafe or inefficient. Most small SUVs today, however, are neither. Then again, that doesn’t mean all SUVs are alike. On the contrary; even well-reputed SUVs have plenty of variance between them, the new 2021 Mazda CX-5 and 2021 Honda CR-V included. Which of these two vehicles will wind up working best for you? Compare the Mazda CX-5 vs. Honda CR-V now to find out, then contact us with any remaining questions!

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

Is the Honda CR-V or Mazda CX-5 more powerful? Even though the Honda CR-V has more horsepower, the Mazda CX-5 offers more torque. It also tows much more than the Honda CR-V. Here’s more information to help you figure out if the Honda CR-V or Mazda CX-5 has the performance you require out of your next SUV:

  • Engine: The Mazda CX-5 boasts a potent 187-hp SKYACTIV®-G 2.5L 4-cylinder engine that also puts out 186 lb-ft of torque. The Honda CR-V, meanwhile, comes equipped with a 190-hp 1.5L inline-4 that’s rated at 179 lb-ft of torque.
  • Fuel Economy: The CR-V earns an estimated 28 mpg city/34 mpg highway, and the Mazda CX-5 earns an estimated 25 mpg city/31 mpg highway*.
  • Towing Capacity: You can tow more with the Mazda CX-5 compared to the Honda CR-V — about 500 pounds more!

MAZDA CX-5 vs. Honda CR-V: Safety & Security

Honda Sensing is now included as standard on base Honda CR-V models for 2021, but you’ll still need to upgrade to take advantage of driver-assist features like blind-spot monitoring technology (which comes standard on the Mazda CX-5). That’s right — even though the Mazda CX-5 costs less than the Honda CR-V to start, it has more standard active safety technologies, including:

  • Smart City Brake Support – this system works between 2 and 18 mph and warns you when you’re approaching a vehicle too quickly in Dallas.
  • Advanced Blind Spot Monitoring – this system tells you when a vehicle enters your blind zone to keep you from getting into a collision.
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Alert – this system alerts you to vehicles approaching from the side as you’re backing up.

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

Some of the automotive industry’s most vocal (and well-respected) voices, like Edmunds, a popular reviewing publication, are singing the praises of the Mazda CX-5. Edmunds has a lot to say about the Mazda CX-5 handling, saying its “keen handling and steering make the CX-5 enjoyable to drive”.

To be fair, Edmunds likes the Honda CR-V as well, citing its “capable acceleration, composed handling, and confident highway manners.” That said, Edmunds does recommend “skip[ping] the base LX model” due to its relative lack of features compared to the competition.

Your Next MAZDA CX-5 Awaits at Town North Mazda in Richardson!

Now that you’ve read highlights from the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5 Edmunds reviews and compared the Mazda CX-5 vs. Honda CR-V some more, we invite you to learn more about the Mazda CX-5 colors and more by visiting us at Town North Mazda and test-driving a new Mazda CX-5 for sale! Once you’ve done that, or beforehand for that matter, take advantage of our online shopping tools to make the most of your Mazda purchasing experience. Whether you want to value your trade or explore current Mazda specials and Mazda CX-5 lease offers, you can make that happen, all from the comfort of home!

*EPA-estimated mileage. Actual results will vary.

More From Town North Mazda

  • Signs You Might Need MAZDA Brake Service

    Your brakes play a crucial role in helping you avoid collisions on the road. August is National Brake Safety Awareness Month, so it’s important to prioritize Mazda service to ensure your braking system’s components are operating properly. Our team at Town North Mazda is here to highlight a few warning signs your brakes may require…

  • MAZDA Tire Service 101: How Summer Heat Affects Your Tires

    There are many benefits to keeping up with your vehicle’s Mazda tire service. When properly maintained, they ensure a smoother, safer driving experience, even when temperatures rise. Town North Mazda highlights how summer heat can impact your tires. Increased Tire Pressure Levels Your vehicle’s tire pressure is significantly affected by summer heat. As temperatures rise,…

  • Notable Performance Features of the 2026 MAZDA CX-5

    The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is a compact SUV that resonates with drivers seeking a vehicle that balances comfort and performance. It’s also a great choice for light off-roading. Town North Mazda has the details on its performance highlights. Optimized Driving Modes The 2026 Mazda CX-5 features Mazda Intelligent Drive Select™, which lets you switch between…

Saved Vehicles

You don't have any saved vehicles!

Look for this Save icon

Once you've saved some vehicles, you can view them here at any time.

Get Directions

307 South Central Expressway, Richardson, TX, 75080
Town North Mazda 32.947526, -96.7359961.