2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S vs 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred
32 more hp and 8.9″ longer vs $1,150 less and 2 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 187 vs 155 hp, 25 vs 27 MPG.
The CX-5 2.5 S leads on 32 more hp, 8.9″ longer. The Encore GX Preferred leads on $1,150 less, 2 MPG better. 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 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S | 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,050 | $27,900 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 1.3L I3 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 155 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 174 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 25 | 27 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.3 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,679 lbs | 3,255 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.2" | 102.0" |
| Length | 180.1" | 171.2" |
| Width | 72.6" | 71.4" |
| Height | 66.1" | 64.5" |
| 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 | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S and 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred starts at $27,900, $1,150 less than the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S at $29,050. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $21/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S is the stronger pick when the extra 32 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,150 in your pocket and the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $124/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S or 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred rates 27 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S or 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S produces 187 hp, 32 more than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred at 155 hp. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 174 lb-ft. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S bigger than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S is 8.9″ longer at 180.1″ vs 171.2″. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S has a 4.2″ 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: Mazda trims, Mazda CX-5 trims, Buick trims, Buick Encore GX trims
The CX-5–Encore GX Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the CX-5 and Encore GX compare. The $-1,150 gap is about $21/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S has 32 more hp (187 vs 155), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred saves roughly $124/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $620.
Living With the CX-5 vs the Encore GX
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S weighs 424 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S when the extra 32 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred when you want to keep $1,150 in your pocket and the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred 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 Mazda or Buick or any dealership.