Honda CR-V v Mazda CX-5 2017 Comparison

Mazda’s CX-5 is the undisputed success story of Australia’s medium SUV segment. Thanks to its combination of performance, looks and packaging, all of which hit the mark with a wide range of buyers, the CX-5 has been our best-selling SUV for four years.

The CX-5 too has been updated, with the second-generation model range introduced in March 2017. Not an all-new model as such, the CX-5 updates include extra technology and it features a more refined driving experience.

Why are we comparing them?
Down Under, the Medium SUV segment is currently the automotive industry’s most competitive sales sector. Mid-size SUVs under $60,000 are briskly exiting showrooms, with sales up 19 per cent over the same time last year. So it makes sense we scrutinise this segment.

Our recent group test pitted four of the best against each other and saw the Mazda CX-5 a deserving winner. But the Medium SUV world moves at a rapid pace, and new arrival, the Honda CR-V, is such a strong and exciting contender, it should be pitched against the best.

But, it should be noted the two variants we’re comparing aren’t exactly apples versus apples. We've got the keys to the range-topping AWD Mazda CX-5 Akera and the mid-spec two-wheel drive Honda CRV VTi-L. The VTi-L is the only model in the CR-V line-up with seven seats, while the CX-5 is strictly a five-seat proposition.

So which will prove victorious – the extra tech in the Mazda CX-5 or the bonus third row of seats in the Honda CR-V?

Who will they appeal to?
Both of these SUVs have wide appeal. Yes, they are family wagons first and foremost, yet they are small enough to appeal to younger people who don't have children, or even seniors who need occasional extra room.

Realistically, these SUVs are both ideal for a family of four or five. Each has two ISOFIX child-seat anchor points in the second row, but of course the third row of the CR-V VTi-L is a boon for the larger family, or one needing to carry extra cricket or softball team members at weekends.

Boot space in the Honda CR-V is reduced considerably with or without the third row in play. With third row folded away, there's 472 litres of space available against the CX-5's 442 litres.

But, with the second row folded, the Mazda CX-5 offers a meaty 1342 litres. We like that.

Because of the extra room taken up by engineering a second row, which must slide and tumble (for access to the third row), the cargo space in the Honda, even with both rows folded, is 967 litres – considerably less than the Mazda. With the third row in play, there's just 150 litres of space in the CR-V’s boot – still room for a reasonable amount of groceries, but Ikea flat-packs will be a challenge.

How much do they cost?
There's a fair difference in price for these two models. The all-wheel drive Akera is the range-topping CX-5 and is stickered at $46,990 (plus on-road costs), while the mid-range Honda CR-V VTi-L will require $38,990 (plus on-road costs).

For that price, you do get a lot of kit in the Mazda. It rides on 19-inch alloy wheels compared to 18s on the CR-V, plus there’s a suite of Mazda’s i-ACTIVSENSE safety technology including adaptive cruise control with stop and go, LED headlights, lane departure warning, lane-keep assist, a side camera and autonomous emergency braking.

As well, the CX-5 gets a head-up display, keyless entry, front parking sensors and traffic sign recognition, along with internet radio and satellite navigation. For ease of use, the CX-5 offers a power operated tailgate. There's a sunroof and the interior finish is polished off with black or pure white leather seat trim.

It's worth explaining most of these features are available on the Honda CR-V range, and at a similar price point. The range-topping VTi-LX retails for $44,290 (plus on-road costs) and is also available exclusively as an all-wheel drive model.

The CR-V VTi-L as tested does miss out on driver assistance technology, but still gets leather seats and offers a power tailgate and bigger panoramic sunroof. It also gets a full-size spare wheel whereas the CX-5 gets a space saver.

On the infotainment front, the Mazda remains resistant to app-based infotainment systems, where the CR-V runs Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, accessible via a larger colour touchscreen.

What do they do well?
There's no doubting the Mazda CX-5's driveability. Its 2.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine is a sparky bit of kit and, combined with a diligent six-speed automatic transmission and ‘Sport’ mode, has got some spirit.

On the other hand, the CR-V’s powertrain is quite a different proposition. You have Honda’s new turbocharged 1.5-litre engine which matches the CX-5 for power, but is a shade down on torque; and while the CVT does well at attempting to match a conventional automatic experience, overall, it’s the CX-5 in front here.

For functionality, the Honda CR-V has bucket loads of practicality. The third row may be best suited to smaller members of the family, but it can cater for long-legged passengers if required. Plenty of thought has been given to clever storage options, too. There's a great use of space in the centre console, with a large storage bin which can be altered to suit your needs and is deep enough for larger bottles.

Running costs are affordable in each with a first service in the CX-5 to set you back $305, while Honda will save you a tenner off that. Honda wins on the warranty front as it has joined the growing throng of manufacturers offering a five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, trumping Mazda's three-year deal.

What could they do better?
The Mazda CX-5 is a consummate all-rounder. There's a reason it wins both with our judges and buyers. However, without a seven-seat option, it excludes those seeking an affordable troop transport.

It's worth noting Mazda is tipped to introduce a seven-seat CX-5 variant, but it’s unlikely to arrive anytime soon.

While the Honda CR-V scored reasonably for driver technology, it disappointingly lacks autonomous emergency braking at the moment. Honda says it will be come, but currently can't be decoupled from its full suite of driver assistance tech and thus isn’t presently available in the VTi-L model.

Which wins, and why?
As with all of our recent medium SUV comparison tests, this is another close call. For practicality, and because it sparked our interest with its engaging and spirited presentation, it's the Honda CR-V which wins this time.

Although it misses out on some driver assistance technology at this model level, we like that buyers can purchase a modern, well-equipped and well-finished seven-seat vehicle for under $40,000.

The five-year warranty is a winner for us, and the fact the CR-V is a looker which stands out from the crowd at school pick up gives it another tick. It also has good smartphone integration, whereas Mazda still hasn't jumped on the Apple CarPlay/Android Auto bandwagon.

Run the same test back to back with the CR-V AWD range-topper and the result could be switched again. But for us, seven-seats at this price, and with this packaging, is too compelling a proposition to overlook.

Related reading:
More about the Honda CR-V range
Key updates to the Mazda CX-5 range 

2017 Mazda CX-5 Akera pricing and specifications:
Price: $46,990 (plus on-road costs)
Engine: 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol
Output: 140kW/251Nm
Transmission: Six-speed automatic
Fuel: 7.5L/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 175g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety Rating: Five-star ANCAP

2017 Honda CR-V VTi-L pricing and specifications:
Price: $38,990 (plus on-road costs)
Engine: 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol
Output: 140kW/240Nm
Transmission: Continuously variable
Fuel: 7.3L/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 166g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety Rating: N/A