If you’re looking for a deal on a small SUV with modern features, it makes sense to shop for four or five-year-old models. And as you do your research, you’ll see that the 2017 model year was huge for the Honda CR-V and the Mazda CX-5. Both of these SUVs initially impressed critics, but for different reasons. Which one is the better used car for you?

The 2017 Honda CR-V is a chill and efficient ride 

Both the Honda CR-V and the CX-5 shine for being smooth and efficient. Though, the CX-5 impresses with its sportscar-inspired driving experience. The CR-V is agile too, but not at the same level as the Mazda. However, the CR-V does get extra points for its fuel economy.

Honda completely redesigned the CR-V for the 2017 model year, and the new 2021 model is part of the same generation. But unlike the 2021 version, the 2017 CR-V has two engine options. Base models come with a 184-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder. This option is OK, but the one on the higher trims will give you more juice, as U.S News highlights. 

All CR-Vs above the base model get a turbo-four that makes 190-hp. This is the powerplant on the gas-powered 2021 CR-V. The turbo-four also has better EPA ratings and can get up to 30 mpg overall; the standard model with front-wheel drive is rated 2 mpgs lower. But no matter which engine you pick, a continuously variable automatic (CVT) is standard. 

The 2017 Mazda CX-5 offers more fun 

The current generation of the CX-5 also launched in 2017. Like the new CX-5, the 2017 version comes with a 187-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a six-speed automatic. Additionally, CX-5 is available with front- or all-wheel drive, like the CR-V.

Mazda didn’t add a more powerful option to the CX-5 until 2019. But even so, U.S. News reviewers thought the 2017 CX-5 was more fun to drive than the CR-V. And if you’re interested in lightweight towing, the CX-5 can tow up to 2,000 pounds, which is 500 pounds more than the CR-V can. The CX-5’s EPA ratings are slightly lower, though; it can get up to 27 mpg overall. 

The 2017 CR-V offers more features than the 2017 CX-5

Both the CR-V and the CX-5 are five-seaters with stylish cabin designs. These SUVs are standard with cloth but are available with frills such as leather and heated seats. The CR-V is more spacious than the CX-5 and has up to 75.8 cubic feet of cargo space. With the CX-5, you get up to 59.6 cubic feet of cargo space. 

The 2017 CR-V also presents more tech. Base CR-Vs will have a 5-inch display screen and Bluetooth. While these features aren’t the most exciting, you can look for higher trims with a 7-inch touchscreen plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

 On the plus side, the 2017 CX-5 comes with a 7-inch touchscreen but wasn’t initially available with smartphone integration apps. You have to take the extra step and go to a local Mazda dealer to update 2014 CX-5s and newer models with CarPlay and Android connectivity. 

The 2017 CR-V and the 2017 CX-5 offer lots of active safety features. Both models are available with functions including blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. Though, the CR-V offers more in this department, such as road departure mitigation.

Which would you get?

The 2017 CX-5 ranges from $15,400 – $19,725 and the 2017 CR-V falls between $17,200 – $23,600. You could say that the CX-5 offers a more fun driving experience. But the CR-V is the more well-rounded option.