Porsche Cayenne vs Mazda CX-5

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne presented itself as a versatile SUV, available in both a standard model with a squared-off rear end and a sporty Cayenne Coupe. The GTS trim level, which was the focus of this review, featured high gloss black trim, a unique front fascia with larger air intakes, and tinted headlights. Red brake calipers were visible through 21-inch anthracite gray wheels, and the Cayenne Coupe boasted an adaptive rear spoiler. Inside, the Cayenne offered extensive customization options, from the colour of the cabin to the trim and seat belts. The interior was well-organized, with mechanical controls for essential features and a dashboard-mounted shifter toggle that provided additional storage space.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 was lauded for its striking design, which was a testament to Mazda's evolved Kodo design language. The vehicle featured a Signature Wing grille, new LED headlights, and angular rear lighting that tied it to Mazda's larger models. However, the wheel designs were considered underwhelming, with the base GX trim's 17-inch wheels appearing small on the larger body. Inside, the CX-5 continued Mazda's tradition of high-quality interiors, with a clean dashboard design and a prominent central touchscreen. The materials used were a step above the competition, although some hard plastics were noted. The dimensional improvements provided a more spacious interior, with increased rear knee clearance and headroom, making it comfortable for taller passengers.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a range of engines, starting with a 3.0-litre V6 producing 348 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque. For those seeking more power, the Cayenne S featured a V8 with 468 hp, while the Turbo GT boasted 650 hp, though it was only available as a coupe. The GTS trim, with its twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8, delivered 493 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed transmission and all-wheel drive. The Cayenne GTS could accelerate to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 275 km/h. The vehicle's handling was exceptional, with precise steering and a low centre of gravity, thanks to components borrowed from the Turbo GT. The Cayenne GTS also featured Pirelli P Zero tires, stiffer roll bars, and an active suspension system, making it an agile and athletic SUV.

In contrast, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 was powered by a carryover SkyActiv-G 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, the engine felt underpowered for the vehicle's 1,747-kilogram weight. The CX-5's 0-96 km/h time of 9.6 seconds was slower than its competitors, and the transmission struggled with responsiveness. The absence of the previous generation's turbocharged engine was notable, but Mazda planned to introduce a hybrid variant in 2027. Despite the lack of power, the CX-5 excelled in handling, with direct steering and well-managed body roll. The ride quality was firm yet comfortable, and improved insulation reduced road and wind noise. However, the CX-5's fuel economy figures were among the highest in its segment, with competitors offering better efficiency.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a la carte customization, with the base model featuring standard eight-way power-adjustable seats, two-zone climate control, and ambient lighting. Higher trims, like the GTS, included a GT Sport steering wheel and Race-Tex headliner, with options for leather or Race-Tex interiors. The Cayenne could accommodate five passengers, with ample headroom in the second row. The vehicle's towing capacity was impressive, at 3,500 kilograms, but cargo space was smaller than competitors, with 772 litres behind the second row and 1,708 litres with seats folded in the standard model.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 benefited from dimensional growth, resulting in a more spacious interior. The wheelbase stretch improved rear knee clearance, and rear headroom was the best in its class. Cargo space increased to 954 litres behind the second row and 1,882 litres with seats folded, though it trailed some competitors. The CX-5's towing capacity decreased to 680 kilograms, aligning with the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester. Practical features included a standard rearview camera, roof rails, and a hands-free power liftgate on the GT trim.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne featured a 12.6-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen display with the Porsche Communication Management system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. An optional 10.9-inch passenger screen allowed for navigation and media control. The Cayenne also included a head-up display, night-vision assist, and four high-speed USB-C charging ports, along with a cooled wireless charging area.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5's infotainment system was significantly upgraded, with a 12.9-inch touchscreen standard on all trims and a 15.6-inch unit available on the GT trim. Google built-in provided native Google Maps, a voice assistant, and access to the Google Play Store. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, with wireless connectivity on higher trims. A 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster was standard, though its execution was lacking. The loss of a physical volume knob was noted, and the climate control interface was not intuitive. Higher trims included a Bose audio system, SiriusXM, and additional tech features.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered standard parking sensors, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring, but adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist were optional. The Cayenne had not been rated by NHTSA or IIHS for safety.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 boasted a comprehensive standard safety suite, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and blind spot monitors. The GT trim added an adaptive front-lighting system, and the Premium Package included advanced safety features. While crash test results were not available, the previous CX-5 had earned high safety ratings, and expectations were high for the new model.