2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo vs 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
CX-5 2.5 Turbo starts at $39,650, $550 less. Same 24 MPG. CX-5 2.5 Turbo makes 256 hp (+11).
| Spec | 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo | 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $39,650 Save $550 | $40,200 +$550 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L Turbo | 2.0L Turbo |
| Horsepower | 256 hp +11 hp | 245 hp 11 hp less |
| Torque | 320 lb-ft | 275 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-Spd AT | 8-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 22 | 22 |
| Hwy MPG | 27 +1 | 26 1 less |
| Combined MPG | 24 | 24 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 30.8 cu ft | 32.2 cu ft |
| Screen | 10.25" | 8.0" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Yes | No |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,890 lbs | 3,774 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.2" | 105.1" |
| Length | 179.1" | 172.7" |
| Wheels | 19" Alloy | 17" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | i-Activsense | Co-Pilot360 |
CX-5 2.5 Turbo or Bronco Sport Badlands?
Both are competitive. CX-5 2.5 Turbo has a lower entry price. Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo and 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands?
Which gets better gas mileage, the CX-5 2.5 Turbo or Bronco Sport Badlands?
Should I buy a 2026 Mazda CX-5 or Ford Bronco Sport?
Which is more reliable, the Mazda CX-5 or Ford Bronco Sport?
Is the Mazda CX-5 bigger than the Ford Bronco Sport?
What is the cost of insurance for the CX-5 2.5 Turbo vs Bronco Sport Badlands?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo?
Who Should Choose the CX-5 2.5 Turbo
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo appeals to buyers who want strong value without overspending. At $39,650, it undercuts the Bronco Sport Badlands by $550.
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 Bronco Sport Badlands
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands is the better fit for buyers who value what the Ford Bronco Sport brings to the table.
Ford's approach to this suv emphasizes raw capability and a wide range of configurations. If that aligns with your priorities, the Bronco Sport Badlands deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $550 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Bronco Sport Badlands carries a premium, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the CX-5 2.5 Turbo makes 11 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, 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. The horsepower difference here is modest enough that most commuters won't notice it. 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 Ford 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.