Compare Mazda CX 5 vs Honda HRV, which is better Honda CR-V or Mazda CX-5? The Mazda CX-5, which will be released in 2023, not only upholds the brand’s reputation for agile handling but also offers a near-luxury experience at mainstream cost.
Because of this specific blend of agile road manners and interior refinement, the CX-5 is one of our favorite small SUVs, especially high-end versions with the optional 256-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
Meanwhile, Honda has completely overhauled the HR-V 2023 to keep up with the flood of desirable and stylish small SUVs flooding the market.
The Hyundai Kona, Kia Seltos, and Mazda CX-30 are all significantly better than the previous generation in every way. It is useful and provides a good deal. As a result, the look of the HR-V changed radically.
Overview
2023 Mazda CX 5
The Mazda CX-5 is a compact crossover SUV with up five seats and is ideal for small families. The current generation has consistently placed near the top of our rankings because of its premium interior trimmings and exceptional driving dynamics for a compact SUV in this price range.
Consumers seem to believe that the CX-5 is a suitable option in its class since it is the most popular vehicle in Mazda’s lineup.
We don’t anticipate many changes to the 2023 model because Mazda gave the CX-5 a thorough refresh last year. Mazda, on the other hand, has a tough choice to make with the CX-5.
The 2023 Mazda CX-50 was introduced this year, and it is roughly the same size on the inside as out, but it is styled and marketed for a more outdoorsy customer.
In contrast, the CX-5 is targeted at city dwellers and suburbanites. The CX-50 will come after the CX-30 and before the next CX-70 and CX-90 models in Mazda’s lineup. So where does the CX-5 stand?
Given that the CX-5 model has been completely redesigned for seven years, we believe the nameplate will not be around for much longer.
It clashes with the manufacturer’s newly established naming conventions and does not belong with the new Mazda SUV lineup.
Mazda is hoping that by the end of 2024, CX-5 customers will switch to the CX-50, allowing the car to vanish from view.
2023 Honda HR-V
The 2023 Honda HR-V, Honda’s smallest crossover SUV, is located below the stalwart Honda CR-V, Passport, and Honda Pilot in the company’s lineup. The Honda HR-V, which is based on the Honda Fit hatchback, was first seen in North America in 2016.
Since then, the all-new HR-V has altered in almost every conceivable way, culminating in its seventh model year in 2023. As eager Honda fans will agree, the Fit is no longer available, so the new HR-V isn’t based on it.
The new HR-V, on the other hand, owing to its larger Civic base, is roomier than the previous model. Sadly, the revolutionary trick storage system is no longer available in this generation of HR-V.
Honda’s so-called Magic Seat back seat bottoms can no longer be flipped up to store large items on the floor for users. It’s a pity to lose that functionality, which set the HR-V apart from the rest of the field.
In order to position the HR-V as an entry-level SUV model, Honda aims it against competitors such as the Chevrolet Trailblazer, Mazda CX-30, Toyota Corolla Cross, and VW Taos.
We feel that it will appeal to consumers looking for a practical small SUV, however, its rivals may do so as well and may do so with more panache. Read our test team’s Expert Rating below to learn more about the new HR-V’s biggest hits and misses.
Read also: Mazda CX-50 vs Audi Q5
Price Comparison
There is no information about the latest prices for these two SUVs. However, according to other information, the Mazda CX-5 has a price advantage over the CR-V in every category.
Whether you’re comparing the basic front-wheel-drive version, the basic all-wheel-drive version, or the premium version that comes with all-wheel-only. drive.
The CX-5 is the clear winner for anyone looking to get the best value for their money, given that it costs less while offering more standard features than the Mazda.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
2023 Mazda CX 5
The Mazda CX-5’s standard 187-horsepower four-cylinder engine has excellent throttle response when driving away from stoplights or rushing around town, making it appear quicker than it is.
At quicker speeds, such as when trying to pass or merge onto the highway, it feels underpowered. The 256-horsepower version we tested had a lot quicker acceleration.
Both engines come equipped with an agile six-speed automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive. To enjoy or appreciate the CX-5, you don’t have to drive it hard.
Its precise steering and composed cornering are sure to make for a fantastic Sunday drive. It also absorbs bumps without causing a stir and has the ride quality of crossovers that cost twice as much.
Its competitors can’t match this dynamic harmony. The pavement imperfections are isolated, the road noise is low, and the damping isn’t stiff or floaty. In the same way, on twisty roadways, the Mazda comes to life.
The steering is satisfying thanks to the help of electricity. When you apply the brakes, the Signature model we tested had a reassuring brake-pedal feel that operated immediately and wasn’t overly sensitive.
2023 Honda HR-V
The Honda HR-V is driven by a hybrid drivetrain adapted from the Insight and Accord, however, in the United States, it is driven by a conventional powertrain. A standard gasoline 2.0-liter four-cylinder, delivering 158 horsepower, is available as an option.
The Civic’s base powertrain is powered by the same engine as the one described above. During our acceleration testing, the HR-V achieved a 9.4-second start to 60 mph.
That’s two-tenths slower than the 147-hp Hyundai Kona and more than a second slower than the non-turbo Mazda CX-30.
Because the HR-V platform is shared with the Civic, we might see a 180-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter or a hybrid powertrain joining the SUV lineup down the road.
Front-wheel drive with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is standard on all trims, although all-wheel drive is also available.
Although the previous HR-V lacked the Honda refinement we want, this new model features a chassis based on the Honda Civic’s sprightly nature.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
2023 Mazda CX 5
The Mazda CX-5 offers two fuel economy ratings, one with two engine choices. In the city, the 2.5-liter engine gets 24 miles per gallon, while on the highway it gets 30.
The 22 mpg city and 27 mpg highway engines are the most powerful turbocharged ones. The regular engine gave 32 mpg in comparison to the turbo four’s 30 mpg score on our 75-mph highway test, which is part of our rigorous testing process.
2023 Honda HR-V
The most fuel economy estimates come from front-wheel drive vehicles with a city rating of 26 mpg and a highway rating of 32 mpg. With all-wheel drive, the city fuel economy falls to 25 miles per gallon, while the highway fuel economy climbs to 30 miles per gallon.
During our 75-mph highway fuel economy test route, the HR-V outperformed its EPA rating by 2 mpg. Thanks to our highway driving abilities, we were able to travel 440 kilometers on a single tank of gas. Visit the EPA’s website for additional information on the HR-V’s fuel economy.
Interior Design
2023 Mazda CX 5
You may believe you’ve been kidnapped by Audi or Mercedes kidnappers if you wake up inside the top-tier CX-5 models. It has a sophisticated feel because of its high-quality materials and layout.
The well-crafted steering wheel is immediately in front of the driver and not angled at a lesser angle, and all of the front-seat armrests are at the same height for optimum comfort.
The floor-hinged accelerator pedal feels better than the more prevalent version that is hung above the floor. The Mazda CX-5 only had nine carry-on bags stored under its back seats, making sacrifices come in small packages.
The storage bay will benefit from a totally flat load floor. Smartphones and other small items may be kept in various nooks and crannies throughout the cabin. A large tray in the front of the center console, for example, has a handy bin with a removable shelf.
2023 Honda HR-V
The Honda HR-V has a classic yet the attractive interior design that is inspired by the redesigned Civics. The front seats offer a lot of adjustments and are comfy and supportive.
The rear bench of the outgoing model can flip and fold to form a very low, flat surface, which is Honda’s unique second-row Magic Seat. Despite its tiny size, the HR-V possessed the segment’s largest cargo capacity thanks to that feature.
The new HR-V, however, has abandoned that feature, and Honda claims that the new version’s cargo area is larger and lift-over height has been lowered to make loading big stuff easier.
Read also: Mazda CX 60 vs Audi Q5
Infotainment and Connectivity
The infotainment screen on every automobile is 10.3 inches, with a rotary controller and volume control on the center console used to alter it. Voice commands and buttons on the steering wheel are also used to interface with the system.
The following features are standard on every Apple CarPlay and Android Auto device: Mazda Connected Services, which include access to remote vehicle functions through a smartphone app and a pay-per-use Wi-Fi hotspot, come standard on the CX-5.
While the Honda HR-V is based on the new Civic, it has a corresponding technical configuration. The center 9-inch display of the EX-L is larger than the regular model’s 7-inch display, the EX-L variants offer wireless connectivity.
However, both versions offer smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. If you venture off the beaten path in a location without cellular coverage, like the Civic, the HR-V will leave you behind because it lacks a built-in GPS system.
Safety
A broad range of driver-assistance technology is standard on the Mazda CX-5, as well as a few other adds. While the Honda, like the HR-V, features an adaptive cruise control system and a lane-keeping feature.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites have more information on the Mazda CX 5 vs Honda HRV crash-test results.
Warranty
Mazda gets better warranty protection than Honda, and some other companies in this sector provide complimentary maintenance.
- A limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
- The powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Honda is equivalent to Mazda CX-5?
Both the Honda CR-V and the Mazda CX-5 are compact SUVs that are safe, fuel-efficient, and offer premium amenities and fantastic overall driving characteristics. For our 2022 Best Compact SUV for the Money award, the CR-V was a Finalist. Crossover SUVs and SUVs with two rows of seating were also ranked second.
Is the Honda HR-V a reliable car?
Is the Honda HR-V hatchback a dependable car? The Honda HR-V tied for first place in the small SUV class with the Mazda CX-3, based on our most recent reliability survey. The Honda HR-V received a perfect score of 100%. Out of the 30 manufacturers represented, Honda was ranked 14th.
Is Mazda more reliable than Toyota or Honda?
Mazda has surpassed Toyota and Lexus in terms of traditional dependability, becoming the most dependable car brand in the United States. According to Consumer Reports’ 2020 Auto Reliability Surveys, which includes information from more than 300,000 automobiles, this is based on members’ collective ownership experience.
Final Verdict
The Mazda CX-5 is the obvious pick if you want a small crossover with big turbocharged horsepower. Despite the CX-5’s inferior power and more premium technology features, it is still a better option if you are more interested in interior space and quality.
Lastly, in the Mazda CX 5 vs Honda HRV comparison, the CX-5 has a lower price tag than the CR-V, allowing you to get more bang for your buck.
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