2026 Honda CR-V Vs. 2026 Mazda CX-5: 5 Major Differences

2026 Honda CR-V Vs. 2026 Mazda CX-5: 5 Major Differences originally appeared on Autoblog.

These two compact crossovers are both great, but for different reasons

An all-new Toyota RAV4 is arriving soon and it’s fully expected to continue dominating the compact crossover segment. But if you aren’t a diehard Toyota fan and believe in making a more informed decision, the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5 are two competitors that may suit your needs better. The CR-V has been around for a few years now, while the all-new CX-5 is yet to hit showrooms. Both have been brilliant RAV4 rivals for years, so let’s take a look at how the latest iterations of the Honda and Mazda differ.

Related: 2026 Toyota RAV4 Vs. 2026 Honda CR-V: 5 Major Differences

1. Mazda Looks More Premium

View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article

This is a difference that carries over from the previous generations of both models. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 has a classy look that is the latest interpretation of the company’s Kodo design language. Elements like the horizontal taillights are similar to the ones on Mazda’s larger crossovers, and the new Mazda wording across the tailgate is very Lexus-like in its execution. The overall effect is of a polished, upscale, and quietly confident vehicle.

The CR-V also has an attractive design, but it comes across as more utilitarian and boxy, especially in base LX form with its plain wheel design and unexciting color palette. That’s the Honda way, though; nobody expects cutting-edge design from a Honda, and the CR-V is reassuringly familiar.

2. Honda Has Simpler Controls

Moving inside, there are even more distinct differences between the two vehicles.

Mazda, known for its sensible and user-friendly ergonomics, has gone in a completely new direction for the 2026 CX-5. Gone are most physical controls, and in their place is a newly available 15.6-inch touchscreen, the largest screen ever equipped on a Mazda. The screen houses climate control functions, too, and it’s hard to imagine they’ll be as easy to operate as the old CX-5’s conventional buttons and knobs. The change does make for a cleaner interior aesthetic, though, and Mazda has added new ambient lighting to create a more inviting atmosphere.

The CR-V’s nine-inch touchscreen looks small by comparison, but unless you’re using your touchscreen as a mini movie theatre—and most of us are not—we see no issue with the size. Lower down on the Honda’s center stack are clear physical controls for often-used functions. There’s a traditional shift lever, and even the Honda’s digital instrument cluster mimics the rounded analog dials we’re used to. It all comes across as utterly logical, even if the CR-V doesn’t look as posh inside as the CX-5.

3. Mazda Uses Conventional Automatic, Honda Uses A CVT

Mazda has confirmed that the new CX-5 will still use a six-speed automatic transmission. Recently, Mazda told The Drive that the six-speeder continues to work well with its four-cylinder engine, so it felt there was no need to upgrade to an eight-speed auto, which is more common today.

In the Honda, your only choice of transmission is a CVT. In our review of the current CR-V, we noted that the gas-only model sounds a bit noisy with this transmission, whereas the CR-V Hybrid is more responsive and feels more natural, since it simulates normal shifts when accelerating.

4. No Hybrid Or Turbocharged Options For CX-5 At Launch

View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article

When the new Mazda CX-5 arrives early next year, it won’t be able to match the powertrain diversity of the CR-V range. It will launch with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine making 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive will be standard. Those outputs are adequate for normal commuting, but those looking for spicy performance will be disappointed.

In 2027, Mazda is set to launch a hybrid version of the CX-5. Previous reports suggest this hybrid powertrain will match or surpass the older CX-5 turbo model, which produces 256 hp.

The CR-V comes with a 1.5-liter turbo-four engine as standard, and this produces 190 hp and 179 lb-ft. Unlike the Mazda, front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional. A 204-hp CR-V hybrid is available, as is the CR-V e:FCEV, a plug-in hydrogen fuel cell EV. The latter has 174 hp and a 270-mile range.

5. Only One Crossover Has An Off-Road-Focused Trim

View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article

Mazda made no mention of any off-road-focused version of the CX-5, and we don’t expect one, since shoppers wanting a more rugged compact crossover from the company can simply get a CX-50. The sales data backs up Mazda's decision to sell two compact crossovers, too.

Honda’s only compact crossover is the CR-V, so it has had to be a little more diverse with its trim offerings. The TrailSport is the toughest CR-V, and comes with standard AWD, all-terrain tires, and sportier styling. It’s not a hardcore off-roader by any means, but buyers seem to love off-road trims of popular family vehicles, and the CR-V TrailSport is no exception.

Final Thoughts

Until we get to drive the new CX-5, we can’t say for sure that it is better than the CR-V. Being newer, we expect the Mazda to have the edge in terms of technology, but we have reservations about how much easier it will be to interact with all that tech, especially when compared to the Honda’s simpler control layout.

The CX-5 has always had a fun-to-drive demeanor and a high-quality interior, so we hope these traits carry over to the new one. Meanwhile, the Honda is efficient, spacious, and reliable, making it a pleasure to live with, and the TrailSport trim caters to current buyer trends.

It’ll be a fascinating battle between these two (and the new RAV4) early next year.

2026 Honda CR-V Vs. 2026 Mazda CX-5: 5 Major Differences first appeared on Autoblog on Aug 5, 2025

This story was originally reported by Autoblog on Aug 5, 2025, where it first appeared.