2026 Honda CR-V EX vs 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S
4 mpg better vs $4,660 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 190 vs 187 hp, 29 vs 25 MPG.
The CR-V EX leads on 4 MPG better. The CX-5 2.5 S leads on $4,660 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 | 2026 Honda CR-V EX | 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $34,650 | $29,990 |
| 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 | 27 | 23 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.0 gal | 15.3 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,500/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,616 lbs | 3,856 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.3" | 110.8" |
| Length | 184.8" | 184.6" |
| Width | 73.5" | 73.2" |
| Height | 66.5" | 66.7" |
| 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 2026 Honda CR-V EX and 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S starts at $29,990, $4,660 less than the 2026 Honda CR-V EX at $34,650. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $82/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Honda CR-V EX?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $232/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,660 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Honda CR-V EX or 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX rates 29 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Honda CR-V EX or 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX produces 190 hp, 3 more than the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S at 187 hp. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 179 lb-ft. The 2026 Honda CR-V EX runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2026 Honda CR-V EX bigger than the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX is 0.2″ longer at 184.8″ vs 184.6″. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S has a 4.5″ 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
- 2026 Honda CR-V EX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the CR-V and CX-5 Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Honda CR-V EX ($34,650) and 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S ($29,990) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-4,660 gap adds up to $82/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: CR-V vs CX-5
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 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.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX saves roughly $232/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,160.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Honda CR-V EX when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $232/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S when you want to keep $4,660 in your pocket and the 2026 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.