2025 Mazda CX-5 vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 was often praised for its elegant design, which stood out in the small SUV class. Its graceful curves and lack of sharp angles gave it a sophisticated appearance, reminiscent of an entry-level luxury SUV. Despite not having been redesigned since 2017, the CX-5's design remained timeless and appealing. Inside, the CX-5 offered a blend of traditional and modern elements, with high-quality materials and a user-friendly layout. While it lacked the large infotainment screens of its competitors, the physical buttons and knobs were appreciated for their practicality and ease of use. The interior's soft-touch materials and sturdy plastics contributed to a premium feel, comparable to older Acura or Lexus models.

In contrast, the 2025 Mazda CX-90 exuded a luxury SUV vibe with its lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels. The sculptural sheet metal and athletic stance added to its premium look. Inside, the CX-90's interior was elegantly designed, featuring Nappa leather, polished metallic trim, and clearly marked switchgear. However, some ergonomic issues, such as a confusing electronic shifter and counterintuitive climate controls, detracted from the overall experience. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-90's interior was generally upscale and sophisticated, offering a compelling alternative to other midsize three-row crossovers.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a 2.5-litre four-cylinder with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, and a turbocharged version producing 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The base engine provided adequate power, accelerating to 96 km/h in about 8 seconds, while the turbocharged model was quicker, reaching the same speed two seconds faster. The CX-5's sporty driving dynamics, aided by its AWD system and well-tuned suspension, made it a standout in its class, though the ride was slightly firmer.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 featured a turbocharged 3.3-litre inline-six engine, available in standard and high-output versions. The standard-output engine delivered 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, while the high-output version produced 319 hp and 369 lb-ft (340 hp with premium gas). An eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD system were standard, with a rear-wheel bias for improved dynamics. The CX-90 offered multiple driving modes and a 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's ride and handling were impressive, with a firm suspension that provided excellent road feedback.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5's interior was well-designed and refined, but it fell short in terms of practicality and space compared to rivals. While rear headroom was sufficient, competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Kia Sportage offered more. The CX-5 excelled in rear legroom, but the Honda CR-V and Sportage provided more space overall. Cargo capacity was 871 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,680 litres with the seats folded. The CX-5's storage solutions included moderately sized cupholders, door pockets, and a deep centre armrest bin, with wireless charging available on midlevel trims.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's interior, particularly in Signature trim, featured Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. However, the three-zone climate control system struggled to cool the cabin efficiently. The panoramic sunroof and elevated second-row seating added to passenger comfort, but the long rear doors made loading children challenging. Cargo space was 451 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,129 litres with the second and third rows folded. Storage options were limited, with a shallow centre console bin and minimal door panel storage.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with a 10.25-inch infotainment display, controlled via a centre console dial. While smaller than some competitors' screens, its placement minimized distraction. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, with wireless connectivity on higher trims. The CX-5's analog gauges felt dated, but a head-up display was standard on upper trims. Audio options ranged from a four-speaker system to a 10-speaker Bose premium system, with remote vehicle monitoring available through a smartphone app.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment screen in the Signature trim. While the infotainment screen was touch-sensitive for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the native Mazda Connect system required using a centre console knob. The CX-90's voice recognition system was subpar, but a new Google built-in infotainment system was expected in future models. The test vehicle included a 12-speaker Bose audio system and a head-up display, providing a rewarding listening experience and helpful driving information.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 earned high safety ratings, with five stars from the NHTSA in most categories and a four-star rollover rating. The IIHS also rated it well, though its collision avoidance system received a Poor rating. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 was one of the few midsize SUVs to receive a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added advanced features like emergency lane-keeping assist, front cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-90's driver aids generally met expectations, though some features, like speed reduction, were less refined.