2025 Honda CR-V EX vs 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S
3 mpg better vs $4,800 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 190 vs 187 hp, 28 vs 25 MPG.
The CR-V EX leads on 3 MPG better. The CX-5 2.5 S leads on $4,800 less. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Honda CR-V EX | 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $33,850 | $29,050 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 190 hp | 187 hp |
| Torque | 179 lb-ft | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 23 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.0 gal | 15.3 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,550/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,616 lbs | 3,679 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.3" | 106.2" |
| Length | 184.8" | 180.1" |
| Width | 73.5" | 72.6" |
| Height | 66.5" | 66.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Honda CR-V EX and 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S starts at $29,050, $4,800 less than the 2025 Honda CR-V EX at $33,850. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $84/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Honda CR-V EX?
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $180/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,800 in your pocket and the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Honda CR-V EX or 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX rates 28 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Honda CR-V EX or 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX produces 190 hp, 3 more than the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S at 187 hp. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 179 lb-ft. The 2025 Honda CR-V EX runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2025 Honda CR-V EX bigger than the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX is 4.7″ longer at 184.8″ vs 180.1″. The 2025 Honda CR-V EX has a 0.1″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Honda trims, Honda CR-V trims, Mazda trims, Mazda CX-5 trims
- 2025 Honda CR-V EX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The CR-V–CX-5 Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the CR-V and CX-5 compare. The $-4,800 gap adds up to $84/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4. The 3 hp difference (190 vs 187) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX saves roughly $180/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $900.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Honda CR-V EX when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $180/year less on fuel. Choose the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S when you want to keep $4,800 in your pocket and the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Honda or Mazda or any dealership.