2025 BMW X5 vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

The 2025 BMW X5 had gracefully evolved, maintaining its distinctive proportions while incorporating intriguing details. The cab-rearward profile and rounded fender arches were complemented by arrow-shaped lighting elements in the headlights and taillights, which added a three-dimensional shape. The front fascia was somewhat busy, but the signature twin-kidney grille remained reasonably sized. The optional M Sport Package enhanced the sporty appearance with features like sportier bumpers and a leather steering wheel, while the M Sport Pro package added an exhaust system and Shadowline headlights. The interior continued the gradual evolution of BMW's aesthetic, offering a sense of quality with a plainer appearance compared to competitors like Mercedes-Benz or Genesis.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90, on the other hand, exuded a luxury SUV vibe with its lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels. The sculptural sheet metal created a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, while the short front overhang and long hood contributed to its athletic appearance. Inside, the CX-90's interior was elegantly rendered with polished metallic trim and Nappa leather, though some materials reflected its price point. However, the ergonomics left room for improvement, with a confusing electronic shifter and counterintuitive climate controls. Despite these issues, the CX-90's sophisticated design and upscale feel set it apart from other midsize three-row crossover SUVs.

The 2025 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, starting with the xDrive40i, featuring a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine producing 375 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque. This allowed the X5 to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds. The M60i xDrive variant boasted a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, achieving zero to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds. Both models shared an eight-speed automatic transmission and a 48-volt mild hybrid system. The plug-in hybrid X5 xDrive50e combined the inline-six engine with a larger electric motor, delivering a total system output of 483 hp and 516 lb-ft, with an estimated zero to 100 km/h time of 4.7 seconds and up to 63 kilometres of all-electric range.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 featured a turbocharged 3.3-litre inline-six engine, generating 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque in standard-output models. The high-output version delivered 319 hp and 369 lb-ft, with the potential for 340 hp using premium gas. Power was transmitted through an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel-drive system. The CX-90 offered various driving modes, including Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing, with a maximum towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. However, the drivetrain lacked refinement, with unpredictable power delivery and transmission behaviour, especially when cold. Despite these issues, the CX-90 provided impressive ride and handling, with a firm suspension that enhanced its dynamic character.

The 2025 BMW X5 was a two-row, five-seater SUV with generous passenger space, though not class-leading. It offered slightly less first-row legroom compared to competitors like the Acura MDX and Audi Q7 but provided more headroom. The X5's sport seats offered extra bolstering for cornering, and the cargo space was substantial, with 960 litres behind the rear seats and 2,047 litres with the second row folded. The split tailgate was a unique feature, providing a handy backstop and bench for tailgate parties. The X5's maximum towing capacity was 3,265 kilograms, making it competitive in its class.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's interior featured Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel in the Signature trim. However, the three-zone climate control system struggled to cool the cabin efficiently. The panoramic sunroof provided ample natural light, and the second-row captain's chairs offered comfort, though seat-track travel was limited. The third row was best suited for children, with limited space for adults on longer trips. Cargo space was practical, with 451 litres behind the third row and 2,129 litres with the second row flattened, though storage options were limited.

The 2025 BMW X5 featured a curved dashboard display with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, running BMW Operating System 8. The iDrive infotainment system offered multiple control options, including a rotary controller, touchscreen, voice recognition, and steering wheel controls. Augmented reality navigation and digital key connectivity were notable features. The X5's angular instrument cluster layout was distinctive and easy to read, with a prominent speed readout and secondary speedometer and tachometer.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's dashboard had a more traditional design, with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The infotainment screen was touch-sensitive only when using wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, requiring the use of a knob and buttons for the native Mazda Connect platform. The voice recognition system was lacking, but a new Google built-in infotainment system was expected in future models. The test vehicle featured a 12-speaker Bose audio system and a head-up display with helpful data.

The 2025 BMW X5 came with standard driver aids, including lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and forward collision warning. The Advanced Driver Assistance Package offered Highway Assistant, a hands-free system for speeds up to 135 km/h. The X5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 was one of the few midsize, three-row SUVs to receive a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings in all NHTSA crash tests. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. Higher trims added features like steering assist, emergency lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-90's driver aids were effective, though the speed reduction feature could be irritating.