2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S vs 2026 Nissan Kicks S
46 more hp and 46 more lb-ft torque vs $5,120 less and 5 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 187 vs 141 hp, 25 vs 30 MPG.
The CX-5 2.5 S leads on 46 more hp, 46 more lb-ft torque. The Kicks S leads on $5,120 less, 5 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 Nissan Kicks S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,050 | $23,930 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 141 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 140 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 34 |
| Combined MPG | 25 | 30 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.3 gal | 12.4 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,450/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,679 lbs | 3,196 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.2" | 104.9" |
| Length | 180.1" | 171.9" |
| Width | 72.6" | 70.9" |
| Height | 66.1" | 64.0" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 4/5 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 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S and 2026 Nissan Kicks S?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks S starts at $23,930, $5,120 less than the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S at $29,050. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $91/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 46 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Kicks S?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $5,120 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Kicks S covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $280/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S or 2026 Nissan Kicks S?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks S rates 30 combined MPG, 5 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S or 2026 Nissan Kicks S?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S produces 187 hp, 46 more than the 2026 Nissan Kicks S at 141 hp. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 140 lb-ft. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Nissan Kicks S uses a 2.0L I4.
Is the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S bigger than the 2026 Nissan Kicks S?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S is 8.2″ longer at 180.1″ vs 171.9″. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S has a 1.3″ 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, Nissan trims, Nissan Kicks trims
- 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Nissan Kicks S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The CX-5–Kicks Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the CX-5 and Kicks compare. The $-5,120 gap adds up to $91/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 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Nissan Kicks S uses a 2.0L I4. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S has 46 more hp (187 vs 141), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S adds 46 more lb-ft of torque (186 vs 140), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Nissan Kicks S saves roughly $280/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,400.
Living With the CX-5 vs the Kicks
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S weighs 483 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 46 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Nissan Kicks S when you want to keep $5,120 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Kicks 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 Mazda or Nissan or any dealership.