Honda CR-V vs. the Mazda CX-5

Performance

Both the Honda CR-V and the Mazda CX-5 offer similar performance on their base trims with 190 and 186 horsepower respectively, but the Honda CR-V does this with a smaller engine. It uses a 1.5-liter engine and continuously variable transmission to achieve the performance the Mazda CX-5 has with a 2.5-liter engine. This results in a finely-tuned powertrain that the Mazda CX-5 can't beat.

The Honda CR-V has another trick under its hood: its hybrid powertrain. Available on the Honda CR-V EX and up, if you're looking for an even more efficient and environmentally friendly SUV near Brentwood, NH, this is it. The Mazda CX-5 has no hybrid option, putting it at a severe disadvantage, and Mazda has yet to bring a hybrid option to the United States market, while Honda has plenty of experience perfecting their hybrid powertrains.

Reliability

Honda has long been known for making vehicles that will stick with Dover, NH drivers for the long haul, and the Honda CR-V is no different. It scores a 3.5 on J. D. Power's predicted reliability rating, putting it above most cars. This includes the CX-5, which only achieves a rating of three.

Available Space

Passenger volume is excellent on both of these SUVs, with the Honda CR-V edging out over the Mazda CX-5 by only just over two cubic feet. Cargo space is a whole other story. The Honda CR-V has up to 39.2 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 75.8 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded flat. The Mazda CX-5 only has 30.9 and 59.6 cubic feet respectively. If you anticipate needing to carry a lot of bags or boxes around Exeter, NH, especially if you're taking your kid to college, the CR-V is hard to beat.

There are plenty of storage cubbies and bins in the Honda CR-V, as well. Plenty of beverage holders are in the front and rear, and deep door-pocket storage bins allow you to keep all your necessities with ease.

Use of Space

More space means nothing if it's not used wisely. Fortunately for the Honda CR-V, everything is carefully placed around to cabin to give easy access to storage cubbies, infotainment controls and anything else you could need. The Honda CR-V's doors open wider on the Mazda CX-5, making it easy to get in and out, as well as install a car seat or give you access to load cargo from the front.

Ride Quality

The Mazda CX-5 is a bit quicker to accelerate on the road than the Honda CR-V, but it doesn't manage external noise well. The Honda CR-V also has a bit more responsive steering, and the brakes will provide you the stopping force you need in an emergency or just to feel spry driving around Hampton, NH. The CX-5 may feel more powerful, but it lacks the smooth ride you need from an SUV.

The New Honda CR-V is Available in Stratham, NH

If you want the most space you can get for the price, or if you just want a fantastic hybrid compact SUV, the Honda CR-V offers this and more. The Mazda CX-5 puts up a good fight, but you can really tell the difference if you schedule a test drive with one of the Honda CR-V models in our inventory. If you want some more information about financing it, our expert finance team would happy to assist.