Skip to main content
A sharp, gray 2020 Honda CR-V Touring model parked in the city.

The Honda CR-V Outranks the Mazda CX-5

The results are in, and the Honda CR-V outranks the Mazda CX-5 in terms of the best subcompact SUVs for 2020. Let’s dive into the rankings to see precisely why the Honda CR-V is ranked higher than the 2020 Mazda CX-5.  The Honda CR-V ranks higher than the Mazda CX-5  Based on a list provided …

The results are in, and the Honda CR-V outranks the Mazda CX-5 in terms of the best subcompact SUVs for 2020. Let’s dive into the rankings to see precisely why the Honda CR-V is ranked higher than the 2020 Mazda CX-5. 

The Honda CR-V ranks higher than the Mazda CX-5 

Based on a list provided by U.S.News, the 2020 Honda CR-V is ranked as the best subcompact SUV of 2020, and the 2020 Mazda CX-5 came in second place. The Mitsubishi Outlander came in the last pace, at #16. 

A sharp, gray 2020 Honda CR-V Touring model parked in the city.
2020 Honda CR-V Touring | Honda

The 2020 Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5 both start around $25,000. But the highest trim level of the CR-V begins around $34,000 while the CX-5 climbs in price to over $37,000. So, you may be able to get more luxury features with the Honda CR-V for less. 

Also, the Honda CR-V has a better fuel economy. It gets up to 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. The Mazda CX-5 only gets 25 mpg in the city and up to 31 mpg on the highway. So, you’ll also save more on fuel with the HR-V. 

Why did the 2020 Honda CR-V rank well? 

The Honda CR-V ranks as the best subcompact SUV for the money. It combines quality and value for the perfect daily commuter. It comes with a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that pumps out 190-hp for a quality, smooth ride. 

It takes the Honda CR-V about 8.2 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph, which is pretty good. It’s only about 1 seconds behind more powerful mid-size SUVs. It isn’t the most sporty ride, but U.S.News says it’s practical and comfortable. 

Also, it ranks high for having an abundance of cargo space. There are 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space in the trunk area. When you fold the seats flat, you can access up to 75.8 cubic feet. That’s a lot of room for a compact SUV. Plus, the backseat is noted for being spacious enough for three passengers. 

2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid parked on a mountain top
2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid | Honda

If needed, you can upgrade to all-wheel drive to tackle snow and other slippery conditions. Drawbacks for the Honda CR-V include a lack of standard features with the base model and a frustrating infotainment center. 

Why did the 2020 Mazda CX-5 rank well? 

The Mazda CX-5 ranks well on the list of the best subcompact SUVs for being fun to drive. It has a sporty ride with agile handling. However, it’s known for having a ‘composed’ ride instead of a smooth one. 

A red 2020 Mazda CX-5 Signature vs. a gray 2016 Mazda CX-5 Sport
2020 Mazda CX-5 Signature vs. 2016 Mazda CX-5 Sport | Matthew Skwarczek

Under the hood, you’ll find a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that pumps out 187-hp. With this engine, you can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 8.7 seconds, which isn’t far behind the Honda CR-V. Upgrade to the turbo diesel engine for more speed. 

Plus, the Mazda CX-5 is noted for having an upscale interior. It provides a luxury feel at an economical price and has received positive reviews for the comfortable seats. The infotainment center is described as a little outdated, but the standard suite of safety and driver assistance features makes up for it.

Related

The Best Model Year for a Used Honda CR-V