2020 Acura MDX vs 2020 Mazda CX-5
Overview | |
MSRP$44,500 | MSRP$25,190 |
Average price$27,279 | Average price$20,864 |
Listings601 | Listings643 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews7.2 out of 10 | Expert reviews7.7 out of 10 |
Pros
| Pros
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2020 Acura MDX Reviews SummaryThe 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 SummaryAccording 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 | |
Engine3.5L 290 hp V6 | Engine2.5L 187 hp I4 |
Drive TrainFWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity7 | Seating Capacity5 |
Horsepower290 hp @ 6200 rpm | Horsepower187 hp @ 6000 rpm |
MPG City20 | MPG City25 |
MPG Highway27 | MPG Highway31 |
Engine | |
Engine Name3.5L 290 hp V6 | Engine Name2.5L 187 hp I4 |
Torque267 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm | Torque186 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm |
Horsepower290 hp @ 6200 rpm | Horsepower187 hp @ 6000 rpm |
DrivetrainFWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City20 | MPG City25 |
MPG Highway27 | MPG Highway31 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity7 | Seating Capacity5 |
Key Features | |
Sunroof/MoonroofStandard | Sunroof/Moonroof |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall5 | Front Crash Overall5 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space15.0 cu ft | Cargo Space30.9 cu ft |
Curb Weight4032 lbs | Curb Weight3541 lbs |
Height67.4 in | Height66.2 in |
Length196.2 in | Length179.1 in |
Width77.7 in | Width83.3 in |
Wheelbase111.0 in | Wheelbase106.2 in |
Maximum Payload1336 lbs | Maximum Payload1034 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity3500 lbs | Maximum Towing Capacity2000 lbs |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $44,500 | $25,190 |
Average price | $27,279 | $20,864 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 7.2 out of 10Read full review | 7.7 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
| Pros
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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 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 3.5L 290 hp V6 | 2.5L 187 hp I4 |
Torque | 267 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm | 186 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm |
Horsepower | 290 hp @ 6200 rpm | 187 hp @ 6000 rpm |
Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 20 | 25 |
MPG Highway | 27 | 31 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 7 | 5 |
Key Features | ||
Sunroof/Moonroof | Standard | |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 15.0 cu ft | 30.9 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 4032 lbs | 3541 lbs |
Height | 67.4 in | 66.2 in |
Length | 196.2 in | 179.1 in |
Width | 77.7 in | 83.3 in |
Wheelbase | 111.0 in | 106.2 in |
Maximum Payload | 1336 lbs | 1034 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 3500 lbs | 2000 lbs |
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.
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.
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.
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.
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

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.
Choose the 2020 Acura MDX if:
- You seek a three-row SUV with ample space, flexibility, and comfortable seating for family trips.
- Advanced safety features and high safety ratings are critical to your vehicle choice.
- You prefer a luxury SUV with a powerful engine and robust handling capabilities.
Choose the 2020 Mazda CX-5 if:
- You value a stylish, premium-feeling compact SUV with upscale interior materials.
- A comprehensive suite of advanced safety features as standard is important to you.
- You appreciate engaging driving dynamics in a compact SUV, especially with turbocharged engine options.
CarGurus highlights

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.
Choose the 2020 Acura MDX if:
Shop Now- You seek a three-row SUV with ample space, flexibility, and comfortable seating for family trips.
- Advanced safety features and high safety ratings are critical to your vehicle choice.
- You prefer a luxury SUV with a powerful engine and robust handling capabilities.
Choose the 2020 Mazda CX-5 if:
Shop Now- You value a stylish, premium-feeling compact SUV with upscale interior materials.
- A comprehensive suite of advanced safety features as standard is important to you.
- You appreciate engaging driving dynamics in a compact SUV, especially with turbocharged engine options.

By: CarGurus + AI
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