2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S vs 2025 Honda Passport EX-L
$12,410 less and 4 mpg better vs 93 more hp and 76 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $12,410 price gap, 187 vs 280 hp, 25 vs 21 MPG.
The CX-5 2.5 S leads on $12,410 less, 4 MPG better. The Passport EX-L leads on 93 more hp, 76 more lb-ft torque. 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 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S | 2025 Honda Passport EX-L |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,990 | $42,400 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 280 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | 19 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 24 |
| Combined MPG | 25 | 21 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.3 gal | 19.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $2,100/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,856 lbs | 4,236 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 110.8" | 110.9" |
| Length | 184.6" | 189.1" |
| Width | 73.2" | 78.6" |
| Height | 66.7" | 72.2" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| 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 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S and 2025 Honda Passport EX-L?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S starts at $29,990, $12,410 less than the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L at $42,400. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $219/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 $12,410 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $320/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L?
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L is the stronger pick when the extra 93 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S or 2025 Honda Passport EX-L?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S rates 25 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S or 2025 Honda Passport EX-L?
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L produces 280 hp, 93 more than the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S at 187 hp. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L also leads in torque at 262 lb-ft vs 186 lb-ft. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L uses a 3.5L V6.
Is the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S bigger than the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L?
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L is 4.5″ longer at 189.1″ vs 184.6″. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L has a 0.1″ 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, Honda trims, Honda Passport trims
- 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Honda Passport EX-L Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The CX-5–Passport Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the CX-5 and Passport compare. The $12,410 gap adds up to $219/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L uses a 3.5L V6. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L has 93 more hp (280 vs 187). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L adds 76 more lb-ft of torque (262 vs 186), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S saves roughly $320/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,600. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Living With the CX-5 vs the Passport
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L weighs 380 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S when you want to keep $12,410 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L when the extra 93 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $219/month more, the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
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 Honda or any dealership.