2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium vs 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks
On paper, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium wins on 11.9″ longer. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $45 price gap, 187 vs 181 hp, 28 vs 27 MPG.
The CX-5 2.5 S Premium leads on 11.9″ longer. 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 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium | 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,900 | $36,945 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 1.5L I3 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 181 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 190 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 27 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.3 gal | 16.0 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,600/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,856 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 110.8" | 105.1" |
| Length | 184.6" | 172.7" |
| Width | 73.2" | 74.3" |
| Height | 66.7" | 70.2" |
| 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 | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium and 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium starts at $36,900, $45 less than the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks at $36,945. That gap is small enough that monthly payments are nearly identical. Focus on which vehicle fits your life, not the sticker.
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 $45 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $56/year less on fuel; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks?
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks is the stronger pick when you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium or 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium rates 28 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium or 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium produces 187 hp, 6 more than the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks at 181 hp. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks also leads in torque at 190 lb-ft vs 186 lb-ft. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks uses a 1.5L I3 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium bigger than the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium is 11.9″ longer at 184.6″ vs 172.7″. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium has a 5.7″ 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, Ford trims, Ford Bronco Sport trims
CX-5 vs Bronco Sport: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium and 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $45 price gap works out to less than $10/month on a typical loan, so the cost difference is negligible. Pick on fit, not on price.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks uses a 1.5L I3 Turbo. The 6 hp difference (187 vs 181) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: CX-5 vs Bronco Sport
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium saves roughly $56/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $280.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium is 11.9″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium has a 5.7″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium when you want to keep $45 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks when you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
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 Ford or any dealership.