The highly popular Honda CR-V received a thorough redesign for the 2023 model year, while the rugged Mazda CX-50 is an all-new model. See how the two compact crossover SUVs stack up in this 2023 Honda CR-V vs. 2023 Mazda CX-50 comparison.

2023 Honda CR-V vs. 2023 Mazda CX-50: What are the differences? 

In this 2023 Honda CR-V vs. 2023 Mazda CX-50 comparison, we evaluated several areas. This includes performance, gas mileage, towing, off-road capabilities, safety, passenger and cargo space, warranty coverage, and price.

CR-V vs. CX-50: Performance

For performance, the 2023 Honda CR-V has a slightly higher base engine horsepower output, but the 2023 Mazda CX-50 has a significantly higher maximum horsepower output. Engine options for the 2023 Honda CR-V include a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine (190 horsepower) and a hybrid (204 horsepower). In comparison, the engines offered for the 2023 CX-50 are a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (187 horsepower) and a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (256 horsepower). 

CR-V vs. CX-50: Gas mileage

The CR-V is more efficient than the CX-50. The fully gas-powered CR-V gets an estimated fuel economy of up to 30 combined mpg, while the CR-V Hybrid gets an estimated gas mileage of up to 40 combined mpg. In comparison, the CX-50 has an estimated fuel economy of up to 27 combined mpg.

CR-V vs. CX-50: Towing

The 2023 CX-50 can tow more than the 2023 CR-V. It has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, compared to 1,500 pounds for the CR-V.

CR-V vs. CX-50: Off-road capabilities

If you’re aiming for some off-road adventures, then the CX-50 is the better choice for you. For one, while all CX-50 models come equipped with a traction-enhancing all-wheel drive system, it’s optional for the CR-V. Also, the CX-50 has higher ground clearance than the CR-V (up to 8.6 vs. 8.2 inches). Furthermore, unlike the CR-V, the CX-50 has an off-road-focused model with the Meridian Edition Off-Road Package. 

CR-V vs. CX-50: Safety

The CR-V and CX-50 offer many safety and driving assistance features. Examples include automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, a blind-spot monitor, brake assist, electronic stability control, and cross-traffic alert.

CR-V vs. CX-50: Passenger and cargo space

The 2023 CR-V is larger than the 2023 CX-50, which results in more interior space. It has a total passenger volume of 111.6 cu-ft and a maximum cargo capacity of 76.5 cu-ft. In comparison, the CX-5 has a total passenger volume of 100.3 cu-ft and a maximum cargo capacity of 56.3 cu-ft. 

However, the cabin of the CX-50 is more upscale than the CR-V, with a high-quality design and a liberal use of premium materials. It almost feels like you could be in a luxury crossover SUV, especially for the higher trim levels. 

CR-V vs. CX-50: Warranty coverage

The CR-V and CX-50 have similar warranty coverage, with the backing of a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. However, unlike the CX-50, the CR-V offers a complimentary maintenance plan, with two years or 24,000 miles of coverage. 

CR-V vs. CX-50: Price

Which crossover SUV costs more: the 2023 CR-V or the 2023 CX-50? The starting price of the 2023 CR-V ranges from $31,110 MSRP for the EX trim up to $38,600 MSRP for the Sport Touring Hybrid trim. In comparison, the starting price of the 2023 CX-50 ranges from $27,550 MSRP for the 2.5 S trim up to $42,300 MSRP for the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus Package trim.

2023 Honda CR-V vs. 2023 Mazda CX-50: Which crossover SUV is better?

In this 2023 Honda CR-V vs. 2023 Mazda CX-50 comparison, each crossover SUV has various advantages. For the 2023 CR-V, advantages include base engine horsepower, gas mileage, passenger and cargo space, and a complimentary maintenance plan. Conversely, advantages for the 2023 CX-50 include maximum horsepower, towing, off-road capabilities, an upscale cabin, and a lower base price.