Are you deciding between two of the most versatile compact SUVs? The 2025 Honda CR-V and the Mazda CX-50 are standout picks in this segment. Each brings its own strengths to the table – from everyday practicality to sporty driving character.
At Hendrick Honda Easley, we’re breaking down how these two SUVs stack up in this 2025 Honda CR-V vs 2025 Mazda CX-50 comparison. We’ll look into these elements: comfort, performance, tech, and more. That way, you’ll find the right fit for your driving style and lifestyle.
Inside the 2025 Honda CR-V, you’ll find a functional and roomy layout designed for everyday use. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and available leather upholstery adds a premium touch. Rear passengers enjoy reclining seatbacks and plenty of legroom. There’s also an emphasis on smart storage, with useful compartments in the doors and center console.
Meanwhile, the 2025 Mazda CX-50 delivers an upscale, driver-oriented cabin. Its materials and finishes feel more refined, especially on higher trims. The seating position is lower and sportier, creating a cockpit feel. However, rear legroom and cargo volume are a bit more limited compared to the CR-V. That said, the CX-50 compensates with classy details like ambient lighting and high-end trim accents. Select trims even offer a panoramic moonroof, enhancing the sense of openness.
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2025 Honda CR-V Interior |
2025 Mazda CX-50 Interior |
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Rows: 2 Max Seating: 5 Max Cargo Capacity: 76.5 cubic feet Upholstery Options: Cloth, Leather (available) |
Rows: 2 Max Seating: 5 Max Cargo Capacity: 56.3 cubic feet Upholstery Options: Cloth, Leatherette, Leather (available) |
The CR-V and CX-50 take different approaches to performance. Honda equips the CR-V with a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine, prioritizing efficiency and smoothness. It’s paired with a CVT that provides relaxed city driving and good fuel economy. AWD is available on all trims.
On the other hand, Mazda has a standard naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine and an available turbocharged version. The CX-50 feels more eager on the highway, especially in its turbo trims. That extra power also contributes to a higher max towing capacity, making it a better fit for those hauling gear or trailers. Mazda also includes multiple drive modes for enhanced traction on snow or off-road surfaces.
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2025 Honda CR-V |
2025 Mazda CX-50 |
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Max Towing Capacity: 1,500 pounds Max Payload Capacity: 850 pounds _________________________ Base Engine: 1.5-liter Turbo I4 Horsepower: 190 Torque: 179 lb-ft Transmission: CVT |
Max Towing Capacity: 3,500 pounds (turbo engine) Max Payload Capacity: Up to 1,000 pounds _________________________ Base Engine: 2.5-liter I4 Horsepower: 187 Torque: 186 lb-ft Transmission: 6-speed automatic _________________________ Optional Engine: 2.5-liter Turbo I4 Horsepower: Up to 256 (with premium fuel) Torque: Up to 320 lb-ft Transmission: 6-speed automatic |
Both SUVs come well-equipped in the tech department, although their interfaces differ. Honda uses a traditional touchscreen layout that’s intuitive and straightforward. Mazda employs a rotary knob interface with its Mazda Connect system, which can take some time to get used to, but contributes to a minimalist dashboard design.
Upper trims bring upgraded audio, wireless charging, and large digital displays, ensuring passengers stay entertained and informed on every trip. Mazda's available head-up display and Bose® premium audio add a luxury-like feel.
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2025 Honda CR-V Top Technology Features |
2025 Mazda CX-50 Top Technology Features |
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Infotainment Screen Options: 7-inch (LX), 9-inch (Sport & up) Audio System Options: 4-speaker (base), 6-speaker, 8-speaker premium system Feature Highlights: Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility (standard) Wireless smartphone charging (available) 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster (Sport Touring) |
Infotainment Screen Options: 8.8-inch (base), 10.25-inch (higher trims) Audio System Options: 8-speaker (base), 12-speaker Bose® premium audio (Turbo trims) Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility (standard) Mazda Connect interface with rotary dial Available head-up display and wireless charging |
Honda and Mazda both emphasize safety across their lineups. The 2025 CR-V includes Honda Sensing® on every model, offering adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation, and lane-keeping assist. Mazda counters with its i-Activsense® suite, delivering comparable features and advanced driver assistance systems.
Both SUVs are highly rated in crash safety tests and include blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, and driver attention systems. Advanced parking aids are available on higher trims for easier maneuvering in tight spots. The CR-V adds traffic sign recognition, while the CX-50 offers a system designed to detect driver fatigue.
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2025 Honda CR-V Standard Safety Features |
2025 Mazda CX-50 Standard Safety Features |
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If you want a fuel-efficient, spacious SUV that’s easy to live with, the 2025 Honda CR-V checks every box. It shines in everyday driving, cargo flexibility, and user-friendly features. But if you’re drawn to a sporty ride and a more premium feel inside the cabin, the 2025 Mazda CX-50 makes a strong case. It offers upscale finishes, stronger towing, and a more connected driving experience. Both are excellent picks, and the final decision comes down to what matters most to you.
Curious about a 2025 Honda CR-V for sale in Easley, SC? Swing by Hendrick Honda Easley to take one for a test drive or browse our online inventory. Whether you’re after a vehicle for road trips or a daily driver with a hint of performance, we’re here to assist you in finding the right compact SUV.
Disclaimer: This content was drafted with AI assistance for initial drafting, reviewed by a subject-matter expert for accuracy, and edited by our team of writers and editors.