2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo vs 2026 Kia Sportage SX Prestige
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, $2,440 less. Same 24 MPG. Sportage SX Prestige makes 281 hp (+25).
| Spec | 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo | 2026 Kia Sportage SX Prestige |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $39,650 Save $2,440 | $42,090 +$2,440 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L Turbo | 2.5L Turbo |
| Horsepower | 256 hp 25 hp less | 281 hp +25 hp |
| Torque | 320 lb-ft | 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-Spd AT | 8-Spd DCT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 22 | 22 |
| Hwy MPG | 27 1 less | 28 +1 |
| Combined MPG | 24 | 24 |
| 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 | Panoramic |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,890 lbs | 3,946 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.2" | 108.3" |
| Length | 179.1" | 183.5" |
| Wheels | 19" Alloy | 19" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | i-Activsense | Drive Wise |
CX-5 2.5 Turbo or Sportage SX Prestige?
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 Kia Sportage SX Prestige?
Which gets better gas mileage, the CX-5 2.5 Turbo or Sportage SX Prestige?
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 Turbo vs Sportage SX Prestige?
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 Sportage SX Prestige by $2,440.
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 SX Prestige
The 2026 Kia Sportage SX Prestige is the better fit for buyers who value what the Kia Sportage brings to the table. With 281 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 SX Prestige deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $2,440 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Sportage SX Prestige carries a premium, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the Sportage SX Prestige makes 25 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, a panoramic moonroof, 25 more horsepower 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 25 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.