2025 BMW X5 vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

The 2025 BMW X5 had gracefully evolved from its predecessors, maintaining its distinctive proportions while incorporating intriguing new details. The cab-rearward profile and rounded fender arches were complemented by arrow-shaped lighting elements in the headlights and taillights, which added a three-dimensional flair. The front fascia was somewhat busy, but the signature twin-kidney grille remained reasonably sized, avoiding the puzzling trim seen on other models. The optional M Sport Package enhanced the sporty appearance with darkened Shadowline trim and larger wheels, while the Silver Anniversary Edition celebrated the model's 25th anniversary with unique paint and off-road features. Inside, the X5's interior continued the BMW tradition of quality and evolution, featuring a curved dashboard display and carbon fiber trim in the special edition, though it lacked the opulence of some competitors.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90, available in three variants, presented a luxurious appearance with its lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels. The sculptural sheet metal and cabin placement over the rear axle contributed to its athletic look. Inside, the CX-90's interior was elegantly designed with polished metallic trim and Nappa leather, though some materials reflected its competitive pricing. Ergonomic issues, such as a confusing electronic shifter and non-touchscreen infotainment, detracted from the experience. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-90 exuded sophistication compared to other midsize three-row SUVs, offering a compelling blend of style and comfort.

The 2025 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, starting with the RWD X5 sDrive40i and AWD X5 xDrive40i, both powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 375 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds. The AWD-only X5 M60i xDrive featured a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, reducing the 0-60 mph time to 4.2 seconds. Both models shared an eight-speed automatic transmission and a 48-volt mild hybrid system. The X5 plug-in hybrid, xDrive50e, combined the inline-six with a larger electric motor, delivering a total output of 483 hp and 516 lb-ft, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.6 seconds and up to 39 miles of electric range. The Silver Anniversary Edition included the xOffroad Package, enhancing its off-road capabilities, though it compromised on-road dynamics.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's 3.3 Turbo model featured a turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engine producing 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, while the 3.3 Turbo S variant offered 319 hp and 369 lb-ft. The power was channeled through an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard AWD system, with a rear-wheel bias for improved dynamics. The CX-90 offered Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing modes, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. The i-Stop function aimed to improve fuel economy, with an EPA rating of 25 mpg combined. However, drivetrain refinement was lacking, with unpredictable power delivery and transmission behavior, especially when cold. Despite these issues, the CX-90 provided impressive ride and handling, with a firm suspension that enhanced driving dynamics.

The 2025 BMW X5 was a two-row, five-seater SUV, offering generous passenger space but not class-leading. It had slightly less first-row legroom compared to some rivals but offered more headroom. The sport seats provided extra bolstering for cornering, though the lack of real leather upholstery and front-seat ventilation was noticeable at its price point. The X5 offered 33.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 72.3 cubic feet with the second row folded. The split tailgate was a unique feature, providing convenience for loading and unloading. The X5's 7,200-pound towing capacity was competitive for its class.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's interior featured Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel in the Premium Plus trim. However, the climate control system struggled to cool the cabin efficiently. The panoramic sunroof and elevated second-row seating added to passenger comfort, though the long rear doors could be challenging in tight spaces. The third row was best suited for children, with limited space for adults on longer trips. The CX-90 offered 14.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 40 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 74.2 cubic feet with the second row down, though storage options were limited.

The 2025 BMW X5 featured a curved dashboard display with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, running BMW Operating System 8. The iDrive infotainment system was intuitive, offering multiple control options, including a rotary controller, touchscreen, voice recognition, and gesture control. The angular instrument cluster layout was distinctive and easy to read. Augmented reality navigation and digital key connectivity were welcome additions, enhancing the overall tech experience.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's dashboard featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, with a traditional gauge cluster and display. The infotainment screen was touch-sensitive only with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, requiring the use of a knob and buttons for the native Mazda Connect platform. The voice recognition system was lacking, but a new Google Built-in infotainment system was expected in future models. The 12-speaker Bose audio system provided a rewarding listening experience, and the Active Driving Display offered helpful data, including blind-spot alerts.

The 2025 BMW X5 came with standard Active Driving Assistant features, including lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and forward collision warning. The optional Driving Assistance Professional Package added Highway Assistant, a hands-free system for speeds up to 85 mph. The Parking Assistant setup included Reversing Assistant, with an optional Parking Assistance Professional Package offering additional features. The X5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 was one of the few midsize, three-row SUVs to receive a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings in NHTSA crash tests. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist. Higher trims added advanced features like steering assist, emergency lane-keeping assist, front cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system. The Cruising and Traffic Support system provided adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist, though it had some limitations in certain driving conditions.