2025 Kia Sportage EX vs 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select
On paper, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select wins on $910 less. The 2025 Kia Sportage EX has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 187 vs 187 hp, 25 vs 25 MPG.
The CX-5 2.5 S Select leads on $910 less. The spec table compares 3 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 3 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 Kia Sportage EX | 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $31,290 | $30,380 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 187 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | 23 |
| Highway MPG | 27 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 25 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.3 gal | 15.3 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,809 lbs | 3,679 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.5" | 106.2" |
| Length | 183.5" | 180.1" |
| Width | 73.4" | 72.6" |
| Height | 66.3" | 66.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/100k | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Kia Sportage EX and 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select starts at $30,380, $910 less than the 2025 Kia Sportage EX at $31,290. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $16/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Kia Sportage EX?
The 2025 Kia Sportage EX is the stronger pick when the 2025 Kia Sportage EX is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.
Who should choose the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select is the stronger pick when you want to keep $910 in your pocket and the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Kia Sportage EX or 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select?
Both achieve 25 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Kia Sportage EX or 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select?
Both produce 187 hp. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft.
Is the 2025 Kia Sportage EX bigger than the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select?
The 2025 Kia Sportage EX is 3.4″ longer at 183.5″ vs 180.1″. The 2025 Kia Sportage EX has a 2.3″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Kia Sportage comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Mazda CX-5 offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Kia trims, Kia Sportage trims, Mazda trims, Mazda CX-5 trims
Sportage vs CX-5: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Kia Sportage EX and 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $-910 gap is about $16/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
Both run the same 2.5L I4 engine. Both produce 187 hp. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Sportage vs CX-5
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Kia Sportage EX when the 2025 Kia Sportage EX is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute. Choose the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select when you want to keep $910 in your pocket and the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select 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 Kia or Mazda or any dealership.