If you were looking for a compact crossover, would you choose a Mazda CX-5 with the 2.5L non turbo 4 cylinder, or a Honda CR-V with the 1.5L? As you all know, the 1.5 suffered from oil dilution and Honda quality is going down a bit whereas Mazda quality is rising.
Mazda over Honda in this case. Their quality/reliability is up there right behind Honda, and will be cheaper. Plus, that Mazda powertrain combo has been holding up well. Just avoid the model years were they introduced cylinder deactivation on their 2.5L NA engines (model year 2018-newer): you’ll have to check the brochure to see which trims with the 2.5L NA have cylinder deactivation. If I was in the market, I would personally get the Mazda CX-5.
Ugh. Tough choice. I like them both. TBH, drive them both, and see which you like better. If nothing stands out between the driving experience, I much prefer the non-turbo engines.
the CX-5 that we drove in '19 was pretty zippy (felt good accelerating)
I'd go with the Honda. Still not sold on Mazda quality myself.
Mazda. Honda is trying to make their vehicles sporty. Sport and reliability dont go too well together.
