2021 Mazda CX-5 vs. 2021 Honda CR-V: Simply for the fun of it

The compact SUV segment makes for some incredible head-to-head matchups when measuring two vehicles. That's because the class is full of good models, so it's easy to compare forces.

And when you put the Mazda CX-5 and the Honda CR-V in the same arena, you're in for a treat, because we're talking about two of the best vehicles in their horde.

However, the CX-5 has a little something that makes it stand out from the Honda CR-V. The following few examples illustrate this well.

Choice of powertrains

With the Honda CR-V, you're limited in terms of engine choice, as only one engine that powers each version of the model, a 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder (190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque). It does very well, but you have no options as a buyer.

At Mazda, there's no shortage of choice. The offer starts with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder with 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. It continues with a 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, this time capable of 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. That's a game changer.

You even have the option of going for a diesel powertrain with the CX-5, a 2.2-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder offering 168 horsepower and 290 pound-feet of torque.

Fun behind the wheel

Critics are unanimous on one point in the compact SUV segment; the pleasure of driving has a name: Mazda CX-5. By far, it delivers the best sensations to the driver. The power, but also the road holding, the handling, everything is miles away compared to the CR-V. And you get a six-speed automatic transmission with a CX-5, not a continuously variable transmission like with the Honda CR-V. That adds to the feeling.

Reliability

In the past, when it came to Honda and reliability, the game was played for the competition; you just couldn't compete with a Honda product. Things have changed. It's not that Honda is no longer able to offer reliable products. Rather, it's that Mazda has moved ahead in the latest reliability surveys from Consumer Reports magazine, which is the gold standard when it comes to measuring this important element with all vehicles.

Yes, Mazda now has a better reliability record than Honda.

That's another reason to choose the CX-5, which is waiting for you at the dealership for a road test.