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2025 Mazda CX-5 vs 2026 Ford Explorer

2025 Mazda CX-5
2025 Mazda CX-5
$29,050MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Ford Explorer
2026 Ford Explorer
$38,465MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 Mazda CX-5
$29,050MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Ford Explorer
$38,465MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP

$29,050

MSRP

$38,465

Listings

824

Listings

3019

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

6.5 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10

Pros

  • Stylish design

  • Fun to drive

  • Premium interior materials

Cons

  • Rear seats aren't as spacious as rivals

  • Limited cargo capacity

  • Below-average fuel economy

Pros

  • Comfortable

  • Optional twin-turbo V6

  • Impressive safety ratings

Cons

  • Bland styling

  • Nondescript interior

  • Gets expensive with options

2025 Mazda CX-5 Reviews Summary

Just because you need more practicality, doesn't necessarily mean you'll have to sacrifice driving enjoyment or performance. Among compact SUVs, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 proves that you can satisfy your sporty appetite in an attractive and upscale alternative.

Verdict: The CX-5 offers an enjoyable driving experience, but it falls short in practical areas like fuel economy and cargo space.

2026 Ford Explorer Reviews Summary

The Explorer was one of the first truly family-friendly SUVs, and it continues in that role today as a midsize three-row crossover competing against the likes of the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Nissan Pathfinder, and Toyota Highlander. The current-generation Explorer has been around since the 2020 model year, and the big news for 2026 is a Tremor model that replaces the Timberline as the most off-road-capable Explorer. The available BlueCruise driver-assist system also gets an update.

Verdict: Ford’s SUV stalwart still gets the job done, but it lacks personality unless you go for the ST or Tremor models.

No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

Engine

2.3L 300 hp I4

Drive Train

Drive Train

RWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

7

Horsepower

Horsepower

300 hp @ 5500 rpm

MPG City

MPG City

20

MPG Highway

MPG Highway

29
2025 Mazda CX-5
2025 Mazda CX-5
$29,050MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Ford Explorer
2026 Ford Explorer
$38,465MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 Mazda CX-5
$29,050MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Ford Explorer
$38,465MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP
$29,050
$38,465
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

5.0

5.0

Expert reviews

6.5 out of 10

Read full review

7.5 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Stylish design

  • Fun to drive

  • Premium interior materials

Cons

  • Rear seats aren't as spacious as rivals

  • Limited cargo capacity

  • Below-average fuel economy

Pros

  • Comfortable

  • Optional twin-turbo V6

  • Impressive safety ratings

Cons

  • Bland styling

  • Nondescript interior

  • Gets expensive with options

Summary

Just because you need more practicality, doesn't necessarily mean you'll have to sacrifice driving enjoyment or performance. Among compact SUVs, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 proves that you can satisfy your sporty appetite in an attractive and upscale alternative.

Verdict: The CX-5 offers an enjoyable driving experience, but it falls short in practical areas like fuel economy and cargo space.

The Explorer was one of the first truly family-friendly SUVs, and it continues in that role today as a midsize three-row crossover competing against the likes of the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Nissan Pathfinder, and Toyota Highlander. The current-generation Explorer has been around since the 2020 model year, and the big news for 2026 is a Tremor model that replaces the Timberline as the most off-road-capable Explorer. The available BlueCruise driver-assist system also gets an update.

Verdict: Ford’s SUV stalwart still gets the job done, but it lacks personality unless you go for the ST or Tremor models.

Video
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
2.3L 300 hp I4
Drive Train
RWD
Seating Capacity
5
7
Horsepower
300 hp @ 5500 rpm
MPG City
20
MPG Highway
29
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