2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid vs 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium
9 mpg better vs $3,325 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 204 vs 187 hp, 37 vs 28 MPG.
The CR-V Sport-L Hybrid leads on 9 MPG better. The CX-5 2.5 S Premium leads on $3,325 less. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 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 Sport-L Hybrid | 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $40,225 | $36,900 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 hybrid | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 204 hp | 187 hp |
| Torque | No published data | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | electrically variable-speed automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 40 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 34 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 37 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.0 gal | 15.3 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,893 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 Sport-L Hybrid and 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium starts at $36,900, $3,325 less than the 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid at $40,225. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $58/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid?
The 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $365/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium is the stronger pick when you want to keep $3,325 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid or 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium?
The 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid rates 37 combined MPG, 9 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid or 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium?
The 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid produces 204 hp, 17 more than the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium at 187 hp. The 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid runs a 2.0L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid bigger than the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium?
The 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid is 0.2″ longer at 184.8″ vs 184.6″. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium 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
CR-V vs CX-5: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid and 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $-3,325 gap adds up to $58/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid runs a 2.0L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium uses a 2.5L I4. The 17 hp difference (204 vs 187) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: CR-V vs CX-5
The 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid saves roughly $365/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,825.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $365/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium when you want to keep $3,325 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium 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.