2020 Acura MDX vs 2020 Mazda CX-5

2020 Acura MDX
2020 Acura MDX
$44,500MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Mazda CX-5
2020 Mazda CX-5
$25,190MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Acura MDX
$44,500MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Mazda CX-5
$25,190MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP

$44,500

MSRP

$25,190

Average price

$27,279

Average price

$20,864

Listings

601

Listings

643

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.2 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10
Pros
  • Standard advanced safety features
  • Spacious
Cons
  • Uninspired styling
  • Outdated technology
Pros
  • Premium interior materials
  • Stylish design
  • Fun to drive
Cons
  • Outdated technology

2020 Acura MDX Reviews Summary

The Acura MDX is the best-selling three-row luxury SUV of all time, with solid performances through three generations of production since 2001. While it may not be an industry leader in any one category, the MDX delivers competitive levels of comfort, convenience, and technology and an attractive overall package that has spawned a loyal repeat audience.

2020 Mazda CX-5 Reviews Summary

According to a Harvard Business Review marketing study, there is such a thing as too much choice. And when the marketplace presents consumers with too much choice, there is a chance they won’t buy anything at all.

For the 2020 model year, there are more than 40 small or compact SUVs available, half of them sold by luxury brands. Small and scrappy Mazda offers three of them: the CX-3, the CX-30, and the CX-5. However, in a marketplace awash in Chevys, Fords, Hondas, and Toyotas, Mazda has trouble standing apart from the established crowd.

What’s the solution? Move upscale into “premium” territory.

Premium is where Buick, Fiat, GMC, Jeep, Mini, and Volkswagen play to varying levels of success. Combining the value inherent in a mainstream brand with the design, materials, and technology common to luxury brands, these premium vehicles attempt to provide more than mainstream for less than luxury.

At the same time, less is more. Because the 2020 Mazda CX-5 has but four similarly sized competitors in the premium class, that makes it easier for a consumer to choose, and more likely that a consumer will buy. The trick is convincing people that Mazda is a premium brand, and the automaker is taking a pragmatic approach to this emotionally-charged solution.

No video found
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

3.5L 290 hp V6

Engine

2.5L 187 hp I4

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

7

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

290 hp @ 6200 rpm

Horsepower

187 hp @ 6000 rpm

MPG City

20

MPG City

25

MPG Highway

27

MPG Highway

31
2020 Acura MDX
2020 Acura MDX
$44,500MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Mazda CX-5
2020 Mazda CX-5
$25,190MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Acura MDX
$44,500MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Mazda CX-5
$25,190MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP
$44,500
$25,190
Average price
$27,279
$20,864
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews
4.5
4.8
Expert reviews

7.2 out of 10

Read full review

7.7 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Standard advanced safety features
  • Spacious
Cons
  • Uninspired styling
  • Outdated technology
Pros
  • Premium interior materials
  • Stylish design
  • Fun to drive
Cons
  • Outdated technology
Summary
The Acura MDX is the best-selling three-row luxury SUV of all time, with solid performances through three generations of production since 2001. While it may not be an industry leader in any one category, the MDX delivers competitive levels of comfort, convenience, and technology and an attractive overall package that has spawned a loyal repeat audience.

According to a Harvard Business Review marketing study, there is such a thing as too much choice. And when the marketplace presents consumers with too much choice, there is a chance they won’t buy anything at all.

For the 2020 model year, there are more than 40 small or compact SUVs available, half of them sold by luxury brands. Small and scrappy Mazda offers three of them: the CX-3, the CX-30, and the CX-5. However, in a marketplace awash in Chevys, Fords, Hondas, and Toyotas, Mazda has trouble standing apart from the established crowd.

What’s the solution? Move upscale into “premium” territory.

Premium is where Buick, Fiat, GMC, Jeep, Mini, and Volkswagen play to varying levels of success. Combining the value inherent in a mainstream brand with the design, materials, and technology common to luxury brands, these premium vehicles attempt to provide more than mainstream for less than luxury.

At the same time, less is more. Because the 2020 Mazda CX-5 has but four similarly sized competitors in the premium class, that makes it easier for a consumer to choose, and more likely that a consumer will buy. The trick is convincing people that Mazda is a premium brand, and the automaker is taking a pragmatic approach to this emotionally-charged solution.

Video
No video found
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
3.5L 290 hp V6
2.5L 187 hp I4
Drive Train
FWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
7
5
Horsepower
290 hp @ 6200 rpm
187 hp @ 6000 rpm
MPG City
20
25
MPG Highway
27
31
Look and feel
2020 Acura MDX
6/10
2020 Mazda CX-5
9/10

The 2020 Acura MDX was a good-looking crossover SUV that garnered respect without necessarily turning heads. Its styling, while not groundbreaking, was refined and seamlessly blended in any setting. Acura's Jewel Eye LED headlights added a touch of elegance, showcasing arrayed LED elements that not only provided excellent illumination but also enhanced the vehicle's front aesthetic. The MDX’s trapezoidal grille with the Acura logo emanated an expressive front-end design. The three-row MDX maintained a sleek and low-slung profile, with high-quality paint and chrome finishes that were flawless.

Inside, the MDX's cabin maintained a modern and understated design. The centerpiece was its twin infotainment screens—a high-mounted 8.0-inch LED screen for navigation and the On Demand Multi-Use Display (ODMD) touchscreen below. The overall fit and finish were top-notch, with high-quality materials that imparted a solid, well-built feeling.

In contrast, the 2020 Mazda CX-5 distinguished itself with a more premium execution. Mazda focused not only on style but also on continual product improvement, resulting in a vehicle that exuded a captivating and upscale aura. The CX-5's “Kodo” styling themes remained appealing and distinctive. The 2020 model added more standard equipment and made enhancements to reduce noise, vibration, and harshness. Turbocharged versions received a new off-road traction assistance feature, emphasizing Mazda's commitment to robust performance.

Inside, the CX-5 in Signature trim offered an upscale cabin with Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and a black headliner that added a touch of luxury. However, the Caturra Brown leather provided minimal contrast with the otherwise black interior, slightly diminishing its premium feel. Overall, the Mazda felt more upscale and stylish than many of its competitors' interiors.

Performance
2020 Acura MDX
6/10
2020 Mazda CX-5
7/10

The 2020 Acura MDX provided two powertrain choices. The standard model featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. It offered both front-wheel and Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) options. The MDX Sport Hybrid combined a 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engine with three electric motors, producing a combined 321 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque, and used a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) with all-wheel drive.

Driving the gasoline-only model with SH-AWD highlighted the MDX's strong straight-line performance and nimble handling, significantly aided by the torque-vectoring technology. This system sharpened turn-ins and enhanced handling by directing power to the outside wheel during cornering. Its four-wheel independent suspension managed to soak up road imperfections, delivering a smooth and comfortable ride.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 offered a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel-drive was standard, with an all-wheel-drive option. The Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims featured a turbocharged version of this engine. Using premium fuel, it generated 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque, which dropped slightly to 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet on regular fuel. These turbocharged versions also included AWD.

Despite its 3,825-pound curb weight, the turbocharged CX-5 accelerated briskly and provided a respectable 24 mpg in combined driving (22.1 mpg observed on testing). The CX-5's G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC Plus) technology enhanced stability and cornering, making the CX-5 engaging to drive. However, excessive body motions during spirited driving and a high center of gravity detracted from the overall driving experience. Nonetheless, its accurate steering and reliable braking made typical driving situations enjoyable.

Form and function
2020 Acura MDX
7/10
2020 Mazda CX-5
7/10

Three-row SUVs like the 2020 Acura MDX were family favorites, offering sliding and reclining second-row seats for better access to the third row. The MDX delivered good headroom across all three rows and flexible legroom adjustments. Cargo capacity behind the third row was 15.8 cubic feet, expandable to 43.4 cubic feet with the third row folded flat, and up to 90.9 cubic feet with the second row down. Additionally, recessed cubby holes, underfloor storage, a spacious glove box, and versatile door panel pockets added functional storage options.

In the 2020 Mazda CX-5, interior space was more constrained compared to segment leaders like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. However, Mazda compensated with a more upscale cabin and a longer list of standard equipment. The CX-5's front seats, particularly in Signature trim, were comfortable albeit small, while rear passengers faced limited legroom. Cargo capacity behind the rear seats was 30.9 cubic feet, expandable to 59.6 cubic feet with the rear seats down. A power liftgate with a programmable height limit was standard on higher trims, adding convenience.

Technology
2020 Acura MDX
7/10
2020 Mazda CX-5
6/10

The 2020 Acura MDX streamlined its trim levels into packages full of advanced features. The base model offered Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, SMS/MMS text messaging, a CD/MP3 player, five USB ports, SiriusXM satellite radio, and an eight-speaker audio system. Adding the Technology Package introduced navigation, rain-sensing wipers, front and rear parking sensors, and a premium audio system among other features. The Advance Package added further tech enhancements like the Active Damper System suspension, a surround-view camera, and heated/ventilated seats. An Entertainment Package added a DVD system with screens and wireless headphones.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 was equipped with Mazda Connect, which mimicked luxury brands’ infotainment systems. It offered a 7-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, HD Radio, and text messaging support on the base trim, while Touring trim added Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims featured an 8-inch touchscreen with satellite radio, a Bose sound system, navigation, and surround-view cameras. Interaction with Mazda Connect could be through the touchscreen (when stationary), center console controls, steering wheel buttons, or voice-recognition technology. However, the placement and functionality of these controls could often be frustrating and required a period of acclimation.

Safety
2020 Acura MDX
9/10
2020 Mazda CX-5
10/10

The 2020 Acura MDX came standard with AcuraWatch, comprising adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, a rearview camera (upgraded to a surround-view camera with the Advance package), and various airbags. The MDX’s ACE Body Structure was designed for energy absorption and occupant protection.

The MDX received high safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, earning top marks in crash-test categories, front crash prevention, and overall safety.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 boasted the i-Activsense suite, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. Standard LED headlights and rain-sensing wipers further enhanced safety. Optional adaptive headlights provided improved visibility around curves. The CX-5 earned Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, demonstrating top-tier safety in various parameters.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 Acura MDX is 7.2 out of 10, while the 2020 Mazda CX-5 scores higher at 7.7 out of 10. Given these ratings, the recommendation leans toward the Mazda CX-5. With its upscale interior, standard advanced safety features, and engaging driving experience, the CX-5 edges out the MDX in this comparison.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 Acura MDX is 7.2 out of 10, while the 2020 Mazda CX-5 scores higher at 7.7 out of 10. Given these ratings, the recommendation leans toward the Mazda CX-5. With its upscale interior, standard advanced safety features, and engaging driving experience, the CX-5 edges out the MDX in this comparison.

CarGurus logo

By: CarGurus + AI

At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.

Popular vehicle comparisons

2021 Lexus GX vs 2022 Acura MDX2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2022 Acura MDX2021 Honda CR-V vs 2022 Acura MDX2021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2022 Mazda CX-52021 Toyota Sienna vs 2022 Acura MDX2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Mazda CX-52021 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2021 Mazda CX-52021 Honda Passport vs 2022 Mazda CX-52021 Buick Encore vs 2022 Acura MDX2021 Mazda CX-5 vs 2021 Lincoln Navigator2021 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2022 Acura MDX2021 Lincoln Navigator vs 2022 Mazda CX-52021 Volvo XC90 vs 2022 Acura MDX2021 Honda Passport vs 2022 Acura MDX2021 Mazda CX-5 vs 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport2021 MINI Countryman vs 2022 Acura MDX2021 Lexus NX vs 2022 Acura MDX2021 Nissan Rogue vs 2022 Acura MDX2021 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2022 Acura MDX2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport vs 2022 Mazda CX-52021 Honda Odyssey vs 2022 Acura MDX2021 MINI Countryman vs 2022 Mazda CX-52021 Nissan Rogue vs 2022 Mazda CX-52021 Mazda CX-5 vs 2021 Honda CR-V2021 Mazda CX-5 vs 2021 Lexus GX2021 Lexus GX vs 2022 Mazda CX-52020 Lexus NX vs 2021 Mazda CX-52020 Chrysler Pacifica vs 2021 Mazda CX-52020 Nissan Rogue vs 2021 Mazda CX-52020 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport vs 2021 Mazda CX-52020 Honda Odyssey vs 2021 Mazda CX-52020 Dodge Grand Caravan vs 2021 Mazda CX-52020 MINI Countryman vs 2021 Mazda CX-52020 Buick Enclave vs 2021 Mazda CX-52020 Honda CR-V vs 2021 Mazda CX-52020 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2021 Mazda CX-52020 Acura MDX vs 2021 Mazda CX-52020 Volvo XC40 vs 2021 Mazda CX-52020 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Mazda CX-52020 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2021 Mazda CX-52020 Volkswagen Tiguan vs 2021 Mazda CX-52020 Buick Encore vs 2021 Mazda CX-52020 Honda Passport vs 2021 Mazda CX-52020 Lexus GX vs 2021 Mazda CX-52020 Volvo XC90 vs 2021 Mazda CX-52020 Toyota Sienna vs 2021 Mazda CX-52019 Mazda CX-5 vs 2020 Buick Encore2019 Mazda CX-5 vs 2020 Buick Enclave2019 Acura MDX vs 2020 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid2019 Acura MDX vs 2020 MINI Countryman2019 Acura MDX vs 2020 Honda CR-V2019 Mazda CX-5 vs 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport2019 Acura MDX vs 2020 Lexus NX2019 Mazda CX-5 vs 2020 Toyota Sienna2019 Acura MDX vs 2020 Dodge Grand Caravan2019 Acura MDX vs 2020 Volvo XC402019 Acura MDX vs 2020 Honda Odyssey2019 Mazda CX-5 vs 2020 Honda Odyssey2019 Mazda CX-5 vs 2020 Volvo XC902019 Acura MDX vs 2020 Volvo XC902019 Mazda CX-5 vs 2020 Honda Passport2019 Mazda CX-5 vs 2020 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid2019 Acura MDX vs 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport2019 Acura MDX vs 2020 Lexus GX2019 Mazda CX-5 vs 2020 Acura MDX2019 Acura MDX vs 2020 Toyota Sienna2019 Mazda CX-5 vs 2020 Honda CR-V2019 Mazda CX-5 vs 2020 Lexus RX Hybrid2019 Acura MDX vs 2020 Lincoln Navigator2019 Mazda CX-5 vs 2020 Lincoln Navigator2019 Mazda CX-5 vs 2020 Lexus GX2019 Mazda CX-5 vs 2020 MINI Countryman