Looking for a reliable and feature-packed SUV? We pit the Mazda CX-50 against the Honda CR-V in a detailed comparison, covering everything from design and comfort to performance and safety features.
Exterior Comparison
When it comes to exterior design, the Mazda CX-50 and Honda CR-V are two distinct personalities in the crossover SUV world. While they share some similarities, they also boast unique features that set them apart. Let’s dive into the details to see which one resonates with your style.
Dimensional Differences
The first thing you’ll notice is the size difference between these two models. The Mazda CX-50 measures 185.3 inches in length, 72.1 inches in width, and 64.9 inches in height, making it slightly longer and wider than the Honda CR-V. The CR-V comes in at 180.6 inches in length, 73 inches in width, and 64.7 inches in height. While these differences might seem minor, they can affect the overall driving experience and interior space. For example, the CX-50’s longer body provides more cargo space behind the rear seats, but the CR-V’s slightly wider body offers more shoulder room for passengers.
Unique Design Features of Each Model
Now, let’s talk about the design elements that make each model stand out. The Mazda CX-50 boasts a more aggressive, angular design, with a sloping roofline, pronounced fender flares, and a bold grille. It’s like a sporty coupe and an SUV had a baby, and the result is a stylish, head-turning vehicle. On the other hand, the Honda CR-V takes a more conservative approach, with a smooth, curved body and a more reserved front grille. It’s like a reliable, comfortable friend – not flashy, but always dependable.
Wheels and Tire Options
When it comes to wheels and tires, both models offer a range of options to suit different driving styles and preferences. The Mazda CX-50 comes with 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels on the base model, while higher trims get 18-inch or 20-inch wheels. The Honda CR-V offers 17-inch steel wheels on the base model, with 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels available on higher trims. Tire options include all-season, high-performance, and off-road tires, depending on the trim level and your needs.
Interior and Comfort
When it comes to interior comfort, both the Mazda CX-50 and Honda CR-V are designed to provide a pleasant driving experience. But how do they compare?
Seating Capacity and Legroom
The first thing that comes to mind when thinking about interior comfort is seating capacity and legroom. Can you comfortably fit your family and friends inside? The answer is yes, with both models offering ample space for passengers. The Mazda CX-50 offers seating for up to five passengers, with 42.3 inches of legroom in the front and 39.8 inches in the rear. The Honda CR-V, on the other hand, also offers seating for up to five passengers, with 41.3 inches of legroom in the front and 40.4 inches in the rear. While both models offer similar legroom, the CR-V’s slightly narrower body means passengers may feel a tad more cramped.
Infotainment System Comparison
Now, let’s talk tech. Both the Mazda CX-50 and Honda CR-V feature intuitive infotainment systems designed to keep you connected and entertained on the go. The CX-50 boasts an 8.8-inch touchscreen display, while the CR-V features a 7-inch touchscreen. But it’s not just about size – the CX-50’s system is more user-friendly, with features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, as well as a sleek, modern design. The CR-V’s system, on the other hand, can be a bit finicky, requiring more clicks and swipes to access certain features.
Premium Features and Materials
When it comes to premium features and materials, the Mazda CX-50 takes the cake. The CX-50’s interior is designed to evoke a sense of luxury, with available features like heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and premium leather trim. The CR-V, while still offering comfortable accommodations, can’t quite match the CX-50’s upscale feel. That being said, the CR-V does offer some nice touches, like available dual-zone climate control and a leather-trimmed interior. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your priorities – do you want a more luxurious, premium feel, or a more practical, family-friendly interior?
Performance and Handling
When it comes to hitting the open road, the Mazda CX-50 and Honda CR-V both promise to deliver a exciting driving experience. But how do they stack up against each other in terms of performance and handling? Let’s dive in and explore the details.
Engine Options and Horsepower
The Mazda CX-50 offers two powertrain options: a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine pumping out 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. In contrast, the Honda CR-V comes with a single powertrain option: a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine generating 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque.
While the Honda CR-V’s engine may not seem as impressive on paper, it’s worth noting that it’s a highly efficient unit that’s designed to provide a balance of power and fuel economy. The Mazda CX-50’s turbocharged engine, on the other hand, is geared towards drivers who crave a more thrilling driving experience.
Transmission and Drivetrain Differences
The Mazda CX-50 features a six-speed automatic transmission, while the Honda CR-V comes with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The main difference between these two transmission types lies in their gear-shifting strategies. The six-speed automatic transmission in the Mazda CX-50 provides more defined gear shifts, which can be beneficial for drivers who enjoy spirited driving. The CVT in the Honda CR-V, on the other hand, is optimized for fuel efficiency and provides a more seamless acceleration experience.
When it comes to drivetrain options, the Mazda CX-50 offers a more comprehensive range of choices, including a front-wheel drive (FWD) configuration, an all-wheel drive (AWD) system, and a more advanced i-ACTIV all-wheel drive system that’s designed to provide better traction and stability. The Honda CR-V, on the other hand, only offers a FWD or AWD configuration.
Suspension and Steering Systems
The Mazda CX-50 boasts a more sophisticated suspension system, featuring a double-wishbone front suspension and a multilink rear suspension. This setup is designed to provide better handling and stability, particularly when cornering or driving on uneven road surfaces. The Honda CR-V, on the other hand, features a more conventional MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension.
In terms of steering systems, the Mazda CX-50 is equipped with a more advanced rack-mounted electric power assist steering system, which provides better feedback and more precise handling. The Honda CR-V, on the other hand, features a more conventional column-mounted electric power assist steering system.
Overall, the Mazda CX-50’s more advanced suspension and steering systems make it a more engaging drive, while the Honda CR-V’s setup is geared towards providing a more comfortable and composed ride.
Safety Features and Technology
When it comes to safety, both the Mazda CX-50 and Honda CR-V are equipped with a plethora of features designed to protect you and your loved ones on the road. But which model offers more comprehensive safety features? Let’s dive in and find out.
Standard Safety Features of Each Model
Both the Mazda CX-50 and Honda CR-V come with a range of standard safety features, including:
- Airbags: Both models have a suite of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, to cushion the impact of a crash.
- Electronic Stability Control: This feature helps the vehicle stay stable and on course, even in slippery or uneven road conditions.
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): ABS helps prevent the wheels from locking up during hard braking, which can cause skidding and loss of control.
- Rearview Camera: A rearview camera provides a clear view of what’s behind you, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces.
However, the Mazda CX-50 takes it a step further with standard features like:
- Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go: This feature allows the vehicle to adjust its speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, even in stop-and-go traffic.
- Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep Assist: These features alert the driver if the vehicle drifts out of its lane and can even make corrections to steer the vehicle back on course.
Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems
In addition to standard safety features, both models offer advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) to help prevent accidents and reduce the severity of crashes. The Mazda CX-50 offers:
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering: This feature combines adaptive cruise control with lane centering, which helps the vehicle stay centered in its lane and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
- Automatic Emergency Braking: This feature can automatically apply the brakes in emergency situations, such as when a pedestrian or vehicle suddenly steps into the vehicle’s path.
The Honda CR-V also offers its own set of ADAS, including:
- Honda Sensing: This suite of features includes Collision Mitigation Braking, Lane Departure Warning, and Adaptive Cruise Control.
- Traffic Sign Recognition: This feature uses cameras to recognize and display traffic signs, helping the driver stay aware of speed limits and other important information.
Crash Test Ratings and Safety Scores
Both the Mazda CX-50 and Honda CR-V have impressive crash test ratings and safety scores. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Mazda CX-50 a 5-star overall safety rating, while the Honda CR-V received a 5-star rating as well. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also gave both models a Top Safety Pick+ rating, the highest rating awarded by the organization.
While both models have impressive safety credentials, the Mazda CX-50’s more comprehensive suite of standard safety features gives it a slight edge in this category. However, the Honda CR-V’s advanced driver-assistance systems are nothing to sneeze at, and its own set of standard safety features is nothing to dismiss. Ultimately, the choice between these two models will depend on your individual needs and priorities.
Fuel Economy and Maintenance
When it comes to fuel economy, the Mazda CX-50 and Honda CR-V are both designed to be fuel-efficient, but they have some key differences. The question is, which one will save you the most money at the pump?
Gas Mileage Comparison
The Mazda CX-50 boasts an estimated EPA rating of up to 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, depending on the trim level and drivetrain. In contrast, the Honda CR-V has an estimated EPA rating of up to 25 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. While the CR-V takes the lead in terms of highway fuel economy, the CX-50 is not far behind. However, it’s essential to remember that real-world fuel economy can vary greatly depending on your driving habits, road conditions, and other factors.
Maintenance Schedules and Costs
Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly and prolong its lifespan. Both the Mazda CX-50 and Honda CR-V have recommended maintenance schedules, but they differ in terms of costs and frequency. The CX-50 requires more frequent oil changes, every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, whereas the CR-V can go up to 10,000 miles between oil changes. However, the CR-V’s more complex engine design may lead to higher maintenance costs over time. It’s essential to factor these costs into your overall ownership expenses.
Warranty and Roadside Assistance
Both the Mazda CX-50 and Honda CR-V come with comprehensive warranties and roadside assistance programs. The CX-50 offers a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and 3 years of roadside assistance. The CR-V has a similar 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty, but its powertrain warranty lasts for 5 years or 60,000 miles, and its roadside assistance program lasts for 3 years. While both vehicles offer excellent warranty coverage, the CR-V’s slightly longer powertrain warranty may provide added peace of mind for some buyers.
Price and Trim Levels
When considering the Mazda CX-50 and Honda CR-V, one of the most crucial factors to weigh is the price and trim levels of each model. After all, your budget and personal preferences will ultimately dictate which vehicle is right for you.
Base Model Prices and Features
So, what can you expect from the base models of these two SUVs? The 2022 Mazda CX-50 Sport starts at around $26,000, featuring a robust 2.5-liter engine, six-speed automatic transmission, and a slew of standard safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. The 2022 Honda CR-V LX, on the other hand, begins at approximately $25,000, boasting a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, continuously variable transmission (CVT), and a more modest set of standard safety features.
Trim Level Comparison and Upgrades
As you move up the trim level ladder, the Mazda CX-50 and Honda CR-V offer varying degrees of luxury, tech, and performance enhancements. The CX-50’s mid-tier trims, the Carbon Edition and Premium, introduce features like a moonroof, heated seats, and a more advanced infotainment system. The top-tier Turbo and Turbo Premium trims bring the heat with a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, producing 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. The Honda CR-V’s mid-tier trims, the Sport and EX-L, focus on interior amenities like leather-trimmed seats, a power moonroof, and a premium audio system. The top-tier Touring trim adds features like a navigation system, LED headlights, and a panoramic sunroof.
Optional Packages and Accessories
For those who want to customize their ride, both the Mazda CX-50 and Honda CR-V offer a range of optional packages and accessories. The CX-50’s Premium Package, for instance, tacks on features like a heads-up display, adaptive headlights, and a 360-degree camera system. The CR-V’s HPD Package, available on the Touring trim, adds sport-tuned suspension, 19-inch alloy wheels, and a unique exterior design treatment. With such a wide range of trim levels, options, and accessories, it’s essential to carefully consider your priorities and budget to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.