2024 Mazda CX-5 vs 2023 Honda HR-V

The 2023 Honda HR-V underwent a significant styling update, shedding some of its previous quirky charm for a more sophisticated and modern appearance. The lowered beltline and simplified detailing contributed to a sleeker look, with cleaner lines and fewer interruptions. The windshield wipers were tucked under the hood's lip, and the black molding strips on the roof were removed. The test model was finished in a unique Nordic Forest Pearl, enhancing its refined aesthetic. Inside, the HR-V featured a well-designed cabin with perforated leather seats in the EX-L trim, offering comfort and a premium feel. The interior design followed the trend set by the 2022 Civic, with a metal honeycomb grille and touch-sensitive lights adding to its upscale vibe.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its classic design from the 2017 second-generation model, which continued to look modern and appealing. The test vehicle, in the new Suna trim, showcased exclusive Zircon Sand paint and Terracotta leather seats. Mazda improved the fuel economy for the base engine and added wireless charging and connectivity features. The CX-5's interior was upgraded over the years, offering a luxurious feel at a mainstream price. The cabin's design and quality elevated it above many competitors, with leather seats standard on most trims and premium Nappa leather in the Signature trim. Despite being smaller in interior space, the CX-5 provided comfort and support for passengers.

The 2023 Honda HR-V featured a single powertrain option: a 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine producing 158 horsepower and 138 pound-feet of torque. This was an improvement over the previous model, and the updated CVT included a Step-Shift function to mimic traditional automatic transmission sounds. The HR-V offered multiple drive modes, including Normal, Snow, ECON, and Sport, to adapt to different driving conditions. Despite being quieter than its predecessor, it remained noisier at higher speeds. The HR-V's new suspension and widened tracks made it enjoyable to drive, though it lacked the power of some competitors.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Turbo delivered 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas, with slightly reduced figures on regular gas. The powertrain was more rewarding with a steady acceleration approach, allowing the torque to build. However, it wasn't fuel-efficient, with observed consumption at 10.3 L/100 km. The CX-5's suspension was re-tuned for a smoother ride, and it featured Mazda's G-Vectoring Control Plus for enhanced cornering. The SUV offered excellent visibility and a sophisticated driving experience, with the ability to switch between Normal, Sport, and Off-Road modes. It could tow up to 900 kilograms.

The 2023 Honda HR-V, a subcompact SUV, offered a well-thought-out interior with a centre console featuring a shelf for storage. It sacrificed some rear-seat headroom for its fastback design, with front headroom at 1,002 mm and rear at 965.3 mm. Cargo space was 691 litres with seats up and 1,559 litres with them folded. The HR-V's passenger volume varied slightly across trims, with improved front legroom at 1,064 mm.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 provided standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The seats were redesigned for comfort, with six-way power adjustment for the driver. Leather was standard on most trims, with Nappa leather in the Signature trim. The CX-5's interior was snug but comfortable for four adults, with rear air vents and a centre armrest enhancing comfort. Cargo space was 871 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,680 litres with them folded.

The 2023 Honda HR-V featured a tablet-style infotainment display with physical controls for power and volume. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless versions on the EX-L trim. The EX-L also included a 9-inch display and wireless charging. All trims had a 7-inch digital gauge cluster and various audio system options.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 avoided touchscreens for most controls, using traditional switchgear. However, it allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless connectivity on several trims. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a console knob, with quick access buttons. Mazda Connected Services offered remote features and emergency assistance. A 10-speaker Bose sound system was standard in the Suna trim.

The 2023 Honda HR-V included the Honda Sensing suite as standard, offering adaptive cruise control, collision-mitigation braking, lane-keeping assist, and more. New features included traffic-sign recognition and traffic jam assist. The HR-V received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came with standard ADAS, including adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added adaptive headlights and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 had a five-star NHTSA rating, except for a four-star rollover rating.