2019 Mazda CX-5 vs 2020 Honda CR-V

The 2019 Mazda CX-5 is praised for its captivating looks, best-driving performance, and useful space. The base Sport trim offers impressive features like LED headlights, a 7-inch touchscreen, and a comprehensive safety suite. The higher trims add luxury features such as leather upholstery, adaptive headlights, and a 360-degree camera. The top-tier Signature trim offers added luxury with ambient cabin lighting, real wood trim, and parking sensors.

The 2020 Honda CR-V's design is described as familiar and fun, with a soft approach to its exterior lines. The interior, however, presents a mix of textures and materials, with some upscale touches conflicting with low-quality plastics. The CR-V offers a roomy cabin, matching the class giant in cargo volume, and features clever storage solutions.

The 2019 Mazda CX-5, rated 8 out of 10, addresses its previous lack of power with the introduction of a turbocharged engine in the top-tier trims. The base engine delivers adequate performance, while the turbocharged engine provides ample power. The handling has improved with the implementation of Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control Plus system, enhancing overall driving dynamics.

The 2020 Honda CR-V, also rated 8 out of 10, features a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that provides responsive performance. The CR-V's car-like demeanor is reflected in its nimble handling and excellent fuel economy, making it a practical choice for daily driving.

The 2019 Mazda CX-5, rated 7 out of 10, now includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard on higher trims, addressing a major drawback. The MazdaConnect infotainment system is attractive and responsive, although the 360-degree camera's resolution could be improved.

The 2020 Honda CR-V's infotainment system, however, is described as undersized and lacking in features, with the base LX trim featuring a 5-inch screen. The system's operation can be challenging, and even with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, the smartphone apps feel tacked on.

The 2019 Mazda CX-5, rated 9 out of 10, offers a comprehensive i-ActiveSense safety suite as standard across the range, with advanced features reserved for the top-tier Signature trim. It has received high safety ratings from both NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2020 Honda CR-V includes the “Honda Sensing” system as standard equipment, providing a range of safety features. It has also received top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, with the exception of lower trims due to headlight performance.