The Mazda CX-5
vs. the Competition

Mazda CX-5 vs. Subaru, Honda & Toyota SUV Comparison in Manchester, NH

If you're looking for a premium compact SUV that will enliven your commute in Manchester, NH, consider the new Mazda CX-5. This crossover still has the athletic nature you've always loved about Mazda vehicles, but it's more spacious and technologically advanced than ever. Other SUVs like the 2026 Honda CR-V, Subaru Forester, and Toyota RAV4 are also roomy and efficient, but they can't match the upscale yet agile driving experience you get with the CX-5. At Werner Mazda - New England's best dealership - we're pleased to compare the CX-5 to its competitors to help you make an informed decision.

Mazda CX-5 vs. the Competition at a Glance

FeaturesMazda CX-5Honda CR-VSubaru ForesterToyota RAV4
Standard Engine 2.5L 4-cylinder 1.5L Turbo 4-cylinder 2.5L BOXER 4-cylinder 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid system

Horsepower

187 hp

190 hp

180 hp

226 hp FWD / 236 hp AWD

Torque

186 lb-ft

179 lb-ft

178 lb-ft

163 lb-ft

Available Hybrid Engine

No

Yes

Yes

Standard

Maximum Available Output

187 hp / 186 lb-ft

204 hp hybrid system output

194 hp hybrid system output

236 hp AWD

Transmission

6-speed automatic

CVT / e-CVT

CVT

eCVT

AWD

Standard

Available

Standard

Available

Ground Clearance

Approx. 8.6 in.

7.8-8.2 in.

8.7 in.; 9.3 in. Wilderness

8.1 in.

Maximum Cargo Volume

Approx. 59.3 cu. ft.

Up to 76.5 cu. ft.

Up to 74.4 cu. ft.

Up to 70.4 cu. ft.

Seating Capacity

5

5

5

5







Performance

New Mazda CX-5

When you drive the same route every day, getting around town can feel like a humdrum activity. Fortunately, the new Mazda CX-5 offers precise steering, strong brakes, and nimble handling that energizes every drive. All-wheel drive is standard in the CX-5 for enhanced traction on snow-covered roads in Nashua, NH. The CX-5's 187-horsepower four-cylinder engine isn't the most potent in its class, but its six-speed automatic transmission doesn't make as many unwanted shifts as you'll get from many competitors, giving you plenty of get-up-and-go when needed. Getting from zero to 60 mph takes 8.0 seconds in the CX-5.

2026 Honda CR-V

The 2026 Honda CR-V is known more for its composed ride quality than for driving thrills. It tends to oversteer around turns, delivering duller handling than the Mazda CX-5. The 2026 Honda CR-V's turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 190 horsepower, but its continuously variable automatic transmission causes the engine to drone noisily under hard acceleration. It requires 8.1 seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph in the 2026 Honda CR-V. Front-wheel drive is standard, although all-wheel drive is available.

New Subaru Forester

The new Subaru Forester is powered by a four-cylinder engine and CVT generating 180 horsepower. Going from zero to 60 mph takes 8.3 seconds. The Forester's BOXER engine sits lower than most class rivals, giving it neutral handling. The Forester delivers a comfortable, undramatic ride that doesn't provide the lithe driving experience of the Mazda CX-5. As with most Subaru vehicles, Symmetrical all-wheel drive is standard.

New Toyota RAV4

All Toyota RAV4 models are now equipped with a hybrid engine that makes 226 horsepower in front-drive models and 236 horsepower in all-wheel drive versions. Even with the power increase, the RAV4 has only adequate acceleration, taking 7.1 seconds to get from 0 to 60 mph. While it's a bit quicker than the Mazda CX-5, the RAV4 is not intended to be a corner-carving performance SUV. Its steering feel is more artificial than natural, sending little feedback to your hands.

Exterior Design

New Mazda CX-5

While beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, most critics consider the Mazda CX-5 to be one of the most attractive SUVs in its class. Its signature curves and athletic stance stand out on the roads of Concord, NH. The eye-catching silhouette creates a sense of movement, even when it's standing still. Striking 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, and a shield-shaped grille complete the CX-5's classy appearance.

2026 Honda CR-V

The 2026 Honda CR-V has less curves and more straight lines than the Mazda CX-5. Its typical SUV shape and squared-off rear end provide less curb appeal.

New Subaru Forester

The new Subaru Forester also has more conventional styling characteristics than the CX-5. Its boxy profile and large windows give it a rugged look that's more fitting for off-road exploration than city cruising.

New Toyota RAV4

The new Toyota RAV4 maintains the angular silhouette of previous generations. While higher trims add more chiseled design features, the RAV4 still has a blander appearance than the Mazda CX-5.

Interior Quality

New Mazda CX-5

Inside, the new Mazda CX-5 is a cut above its rivals in terms of aesthetics. Its cabin materials and build quality look and feel more premium than the competition's. Base models have a few plastic trim pieces, but they're nicely textured. Upholstery options include cloth, leatherette, microsuede, and genuine leather. The CX-5's calm, yet functional cabin comes standard with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.

2026 Honda CR-V

The 2026 Honda CR-V has a more sober-looking interior than the Mazda CX-5. Its dashboard contains acres of dark gray plastic, though a honeycomb-textured insert adds some visual appeal.

New Subaru Forester

The new Subaru Forester's cabin, though functional, is more utilitarian than that of the Mazda CX-5. Its dash features traditional analog gauges that sandwich a small screen for driver information. Most trims have cloth or synthetic leather upholstery, although range-topping Touring models have perforated leather seats.

New Toyota RAV4

The new Toyota RAV4 comes with cloth seats and some hard plastic trim in entry-level models. Unfortunately, genuine leather upholstery is not available in the RAV4 - the only options in higher trims are synthetic leather upholstery or SoftTex seats with synthetic suede inserts.

Passenger Space

New Mazda CX-5

By making the new CX-5 over four inches longer than the outgoing model, Mazda also added more interior space. Taller Lawrence, MA passengers will appreciate the CX-5's 39.9 inches of rear legroom for all-day backseat comfort. Front-seat occupants enjoy 41.7 inches of legroom. The CX-5's rear doors are longer than most SUVs, and they open nearly 90 degrees, making it easy to get in and out.

2026 Honda CR-V

The 2026 Honda CR-V provides slightly less front legroom than the Mazda CX-5, at 41.3 inches. However, it does have a bit more rear legroom, with 41.0 inches of space.

New Subaru Forester

The new Subaru Forester only offers 39.4 inches of rear legroom, although it does provide 43.3 inches of front legroom.

New Toyota RAV4

The new Toyota RAV4 is less generous with legroom than the other Mazda CX-5 competitors. It delivers just 41.0 inches of front legroom and 37.8 inches of rear legroom.

Infotainment Technology

New Mazda CX-5

A quality infotainment system can help you stay alert and entertained on long trips from Lunenburg, MA. The new Mazda CX-5 comes standard with a 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. Since the infotainment system runs on Google Built-In software, you'll enjoy easy access to Google Maps. The system is quick to respond and takes voice response cues in a natural voice. Top-tier trims offer a 15.6-inch touchscreen.

2026 Honda CR-V

The 2026 Honda CR-V features a nine-inch infotainment touchscreen with a more basic operating system.

New Subaru Forester

The new Subaru Forester comes with dual seven-inch infotainment screens, though an 11.6-inch touchscreen is available.

New Toyota RAV4

The new Toyota RAV4 comes standard with a 10.5-inch touchscreen display, with a 12.9-inch display available on higher trims.

Contact Werner Mazda to Learn More about the New CX-5

If you're interested in buying or leasing a Mazda CX-5, you'll find a wide array of trims in the new inventory at Werner Mazda in Manchester, NH. If a pre-owned CX-5 fits into your budget better, consider a certified pre-owned CX-5. The models in our certified pre-owned selection have undergone extensive inspections and come with warranty protection. Contact our Mazda dealership near Nashua, NH to schedule a test drive today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely. The new CX-5 comes standard with ten driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control and intersection collision mitigation.

The new Mazda CX-5 has 33.7 cubic feet of room with the rear seats up and 66.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the back seats folded, giving Lowell, MA drivers ample space to store their luggage, camping equipment, or sports gear.

The new CX-5 can tow up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped, enough to pull a small trailer or a pop-up camper.

  1. Werner Mazda

    736 Huse Rd
    Manchester, NH 03103

    • Sales: (603) 626-6666
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