2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S vs 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend
$1,705 less and 11.9″ longer vs 2 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $1,705 price gap, 187 vs 181 hp, 25 vs 27 MPG.
The CX-5 2.5 S leads on $1,705 less, 11.9″ longer. The Bronco Sport Big Bend leads on 2 MPG better. 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 | 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,990 | $31,695 |
| 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 | 23 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 25 | 27 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.3 gal | 16.0 gal |
| 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 and 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S starts at $29,990, $1,705 less than the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend at $31,695. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $30/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
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 $1,705 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S covers your needs; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend?
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $124/year less on fuel; 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 or 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend?
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend rates 27 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S or 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S produces 187 hp, 6 more than the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend at 181 hp. The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend also leads in torque at 190 lb-ft vs 186 lb-ft. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend uses a 1.5L I3 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S bigger than the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S is 11.9″ longer at 184.6″ vs 172.7″. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S 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
The CX-5–Bronco Sport Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the CX-5 and Bronco Sport compare. The $1,705 gap is about $30/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend uses a 1.5L I3 Turbo. The 6 hp difference (187 vs 181) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend saves roughly $124/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $620.
Living With the CX-5 vs the Bronco Sport
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S 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 has a 5.7″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S when you want to keep $1,705 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $124/year less on fuel. At $30/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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.