2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium vs 2026 Kia Sportage X-Pro
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
CX-5 2.5 S Premium starts at $35,200, $2,890 less. Sportage X-Pro leads with 38 MPG. Sportage X-Pro makes 227 hp (+40).
| Spec | 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium | 2026 Kia Sportage X-Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $35,200 Save $2,890 | $38,090 +$2,890 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 1.6L Turbo Hybrid |
| Horsepower | 187 hp 40 hp less | 227 hp +40 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-Spd AT | 6-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 13 less | 38 +13 |
| Hwy MPG | 30 8 less | 38 +8 |
| Combined MPG | 27 11 less | 38 +11 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 30.8 cu ft | 39.5 cu ft |
| Screen | 10.25" | 12.3" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Yes | Yes |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,770 lbs | 3,850 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.2" | 108.3" |
| Length | 179.1" | 183.5" |
| Wheels | 19" Alloy | 18" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | i-Activsense | Drive Wise |
CX-5 2.5 S Premium or Sportage X-Pro?
Both are competitive. CX-5 2.5 S Premium has a lower entry price, Sportage X-Pro leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium and 2026 Kia Sportage X-Pro?
Which gets better gas mileage, the CX-5 2.5 S Premium or Sportage X-Pro?
Should I buy a 2026 Mazda CX-5 or Kia Sportage?
Which is more reliable, the Mazda CX-5 or Kia Sportage?
Is the Mazda CX-5 bigger than the Kia Sportage?
What is the cost of insurance for the CX-5 2.5 S Premium vs Sportage X-Pro?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium?
Who Should Choose the CX-5 2.5 S Premium
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium appeals to buyers who want strong value without overspending. At $35,200, it undercuts the Sportage X-Pro by $2,890.
Mazda ownership comes with a distinct ownership proposition. Compare more: CX-5 2.5 S vs CX-5 2.5 S Select, CX-5 2.5 S vs CX-5 2.5 S Premium, CX-5 2.5 S vs CX-5 2.5 Turbo.
Who Should Choose the Sportage X-Pro
The 2026 Kia Sportage X-Pro is the better fit for buyers who value what the Kia Sportage brings to the table. Superior fuel economy at 38 combined MPG is a genuine running-cost advantage. With 227 hp, it also delivers stronger performance.
Kia's approach to this suv emphasizes a balance of features and value. If that aligns with your priorities, the Sportage X-Pro deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $2,890 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Sportage X-Pro carries a premium, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the Sportage X-Pro makes 40 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, 40 more horsepower, larger wheels also contribute. Both are competitive within the suv market, and neither represents a poor value at their respective price points.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Enthusiast drivers will feel the differences immediately if there's a powertrain gap. A 40 hp difference is noticeable during merging, passing, and hill climbs. Interior differences become apparent on longer trips where seat comfort, noise levels, and tech features matter more.
For buyers who primarily drive in urban and suburban settings under 40 mph, both of these suvs will feel remarkably similar in daily use. The differences surface on road trips, in extreme weather (where heated seats and AWD matter), and during technology-heavy interactions like navigation and phone integration.
When Both Suvs Feel the Same
In a parking lot, at a stoplight, or cruising in light traffic, these two vehicles deliver very similar experiences. Both are modern, safe suvs with contemporary safety suites, decent infotainment, and comfortable cabins. Neither will leave you feeling shortchanged in everyday scenarios.
The choice between Mazda and Kia often comes down to brand loyalty, dealer experience, and which vehicle simply feels right during a test drive. We recommend driving both back-to-back on the same day — the subtle differences in steering feel, seat position, and visibility are more informative than any spec sheet.